Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire

Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire

Organized around 'The Canticle of the Creatures' by St Francis of Assisi, this book considers the ways in which praying with the natural elements can enliven Christian spiritual life. "This well-done and quote-filled paperback forges deep and rich connections between the Christian faith and the natural world." -- Spirituality&Practice "For too many centuries, too many Christians have been taught that a deep reverence for the beauty of nature is incompatible with sincere faith. Christine Valters Paintner's Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire thus comes as both a blessing and a gift. Not only is her writing as beautiful as the symbolism she describes, but her wide knowledge of scripture, patristic writing, the mystical life of the saints, and contemporary spiritual poetry makes the reading of this book an inspiring and rejuvenating adventure." -- Paula Huston , Author of The Holy Way "Amid the current profusion of spirituality-and-nature books, Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire is a rare treasure: a deeply Christian book that also draws us more deeply into contemplation of and relationship with nature. This fine work of spiritual wisdom and guidance offers to both individuals and groups a companion for all seasons. It can soothe at night, enliven in the morning, kindle the human spirit during the day, and at all times serve as a reminder of the abiding presence of the Creator Spirit, which is the spirit of Christ on earth and among us." -- Jane Redmont , Author of When in Doubt, Sing Christine Valters Paintner is the online abbess for Abbey of the Arts, a virtual monastery offering classes and resources on contemplative practice and creative expression. She earned a doctorate in Christian spirituality from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, and achieved professional status as a registered expressive arts consultant and educator from the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association. Paintner is the author of thirteen books on monasticism and creativity, including  The Soul's Slow Ripening ; Water, Wind, Earth, and Fire ; The Artist's Rule ; The Soul of a Pilgrim ; Illuminating the Way ; The Wisdom of the Body; and a collection of poems called Dreaming of Stones. She leads writing retreats and pilgrimages in Ireland, Scotland, Austria, and Germany and online retreats at her website AbbeyoftheArts.com, living out her commitment as a Benedictine Oblate in Galway, Ireland, with her husband, John.