Ten years after the death of John O’Donohue, who was best known for popularizing Celtic spirituality with his 1997 bestseller Anam Cara, new books from three religion and spirituality publishers are highlighting teachings from the ancient Celtic nations.
Celtic Christians, who are believed to have lived in Ireland and the U.K. during the Early Middle Ages, practiced a unique form of Catholicism that emphasized the importance of hospitality and nature, among other differences with mainstream Catholics. Consequently, their practices, which associate publisher at Hampton Roads Greg Brandenburgh calls “one size fits all,” can appeal to readers of all faith backgrounds, including the growing number of nones, or spiritually unaffiliated people. Learn more about the new releases here.
The Soul’s Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred
Paintner, author and founded of a “virtual monastery” on AbbeyoftheArts.com, introduces 12 Irish saints who demonstrate concepts from Celtic spirituality for discovering God’s will, such as pilgrimages, blessing each moment, and observing wisdom in nature’s rhythms. The book also features reflections on each concept as well as guided prayers and writing prompts.
An Invitation to Celtic Wisdom: A Little Guide to Mystery, Spirit, and Compassion
McColman, whose background includes Lutheranism, Episcopalian, and Paganism, offers a short primer on Celtic spirituality that is split into three parts: the Celtic mystery, the Celtic saints, and walking the Celtic path. The book includes information on Celtic myths, folklore, and poetry.
Healing Plants of the Celtic Druids: Ancient Celts in Britain and their Druid Healers Used Plant Medicine to Treat the Mind, Body and Soul
British author Paine draws on her degrees on human physiology and pharmacy to argue for the healing properties of herbs used by the ancient Celts. The book includes tips on how to grow, harvest, preserve, and use the plants, such as sage and rosemary as well as other medicinal species.
