Today, the Church is experiencing a revival of interest in the Bible. The knowledge and practice of lectio divina are becoming more widespread, not only in monastic and religious communities, but also among all the people of God. Archbishop Magrassi's book is a classic on the subject. It introduces us to an atmosphere of faith in which the Church, for twelve centuries, was nourished on the Word of God. Out of his vast knowledge of the Fathers and medieval monastic authors, Magrassi has created a synthesis of the elements that make up the unique and singular experience of lectio divina.
The Second Vatican Council stated: all . . . should immerse themselves in the Scriptures by constant spiritual reading and diligent study. . . . The Church is still far from adequately carrying out those words, but recent years have seen a revival of interest in the Bible. During that revival, both the knowledge and the practice of lectio divina have become more widespread. In Praying the Bible Mariano Magrassi reintroduces us to this practice of prayerful reading of the word of God which is our heritage.
With his vast knowledge of the Fathers and medieval monastic writers, Archbishop Magrassi synthesizes the unique and extraordinary experience of lectio divina. What is it? What are its key ideas? What are the necessary personal dispositions? What are the steps by which prayed reading is transformed into genuine contemplation? In Praying the Bible Magrassi answers these questions, providing a discussion that contains a healthy challenge and an invitation to grow.
Chapters are Liturgical Proclamation and Lectio Sacra, Lectio Divina: Meaning of the Term, Lectio Divina: Key Ideas, Lectio Divina: Concrete Dispositions, Lectio Divina: Four Acts, and The Ancient 'Conference' and the Modern Review of Life.
