The Way of the Heart
Connecting with God through Prayer, Wisdom & Silence
Since its first publication, The Way of the Heart has helped millions of men and women cast off the anger and greed that trouble the world—and find love, compassion, and peace in the heart of God.
Inspired by the ancient teachings of St. Anthony and the Desert Fathers, The Way of the Heart clears before us a spiritual path consisting of three stepping-stones: Solitude (learning not to be alone but to be alone with God); Silence (the discipline by which the inner fire of God is tended and kept alive); and Prayer (standing in the presence of God with the mind in the heart). Within this one small book lies the most relevant and inspiring challenge that we shall ever face: to surrender the compulsive noise of the world for the way of the heart that leads us to God.
Translations available in: Czech, Portuguese, Chinese
More About this Book
This book was written for ministers in response to the question: “How can we minister in an apocalyptic situation?” Nouwen draws from the writings of the desert mothers and fathers who lived in the Egyptian desert during the fourth and fifth centuries, believing they offer a “very important perspective on our life as ministers.” The book considers the idea of “fleeing from the world” (solitude), the importance of silence for the spirituality of the minister and presents the invitation to “pray always”. It is a short book but is deeply impactful despite its simplicity and will encourage people to take the disciplines of solitude, silence and prayer more seriously. It is an uplifting and easy read.
Themes: Solitude, Silence, Prayer, Contemplation, Spiritual Life, Desert Mothers and Fathers, Christian Leaders, God, Ministry
Harper Collins, 1981
Praise for "The Way of the Heart"
"This is not just another run-of-the-mill book on spiritual practice. Very well done." -David
"I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is seeking a deeper experience with God. Great book!" -Kathleen
"Bottom line, I heart this book. I underlined almost every line on every page." -Gregory