“Practical” Mysticism Seeking to Unite Contemplation and Action

Abstract

Over a number of centuries, many Christians have shown a concern to unite contemplation and action. It has turned out, though, that this quest confronts practical and theological difficulties. It is timely to ascertain whether it is still a matter of concern to Christian spirituality and theology now to hold these two elements together. If so, we need to discern what resources there might be for a fresh approach that addresses some of those difficulties. This involves taking up the wisdom of the ongoing mystical tradition in Christianity (the focus here will be on the tradition found in the Western Church), and bringing to bear fresh insights from contemporary theology.