Configured to Christ: On Spiritual Direction and Clergy Formation

Today's best clerical education prepares men to be divinely adored in their humanity. Deacon James Keating reveals what makes a priest or deacon tranquil, personally happy, and—to the extent he continues to receive God's love in prayer as a man of interiority and sacrament—a minister of God's love to his people in Configured to Christ: On Spiritual Direction and Clergy Formation.

“Few people are more qualified to write on the topic of clergy formation than James Keating. . . . Anyone involved in the formation of clergy should read this book, as they will most certainly benefit from Keating’s wisdom and insights.”

Perry J. Cahall, Pontifical College Josephinum

“These essays center on a paradox: the more open and receptive we are to God in prayer, the more active and whole we become in our service to Christ and his Church. Offering astute cultural analysis and discernment, Deacon Keating summons us to see contemplation as the deepest, surest, most fruitful source of mission.”

Christopher Ruddy, The Catholic University of America

“This fine collection of essays emphasizes the importance of integrating prayer and contemplation into every aspect of diaconal and priestly formation: the human, the spiritual, the intellectual, and the pastoral.”

Fr. Dennis J. Billy, C.Ss.R., St. Mary’s Seminary & University