Introduction to Christian Mysticism

Presentation:  Sunday, October 11, 2009, from 1:30 to 3:30 pm

(This presentation only will be held in Tymen Hall at Oblate School of Theology)

Edward B. Alcott, Ph.D.

Brief Description of Presentation

This presentation introduces fundamental Christian Mysticism concepts  for those new to the course this year.  The presentation explains classic terms found in Christian mysticism, the indirect/direct ways of faith development, the two egos and the classic stages of the faith journey.  Jesus is seen as the prototype of the Christian mystic in that his life represents the journey of obedience, carrying one's cross and surrendering to the will of God. His life in his human nature follows the purgation, illumination and union stages found in the mystic way.

Preparation for Session and Bibliography

For lecture preparation article, see Evelyn Underhill, "Chapter I. Introduction" in THE MYSTICS OF THE CHURCH

Practical Mysticism  by  Evelyn Underhill

New Seeds of Contemplation  by Thomas Merton

The Five Stages of the Soul  by Harry Moody

Click here for a List of Definitions of Spiritual Terms

About Edward Alcott

Ed Alcott, adjunct faculty at Oblate School of Theology

B.A., M.A. Creighton University

Ph.D. Saint Louis University

Experience: 

Chairperson of Social Behavioral Sciences, professor of European/Christian history and Christian Spirituality/Mysticism at Brescia University, KY.

For 20 years at Brooks AFB, San Antonio he worked in various capacities: Medical Historian; Director of the Museum of Flight Medicine; and Education Specialist at the School of Aerospace Medicine.

Books:  A Great Treasury of Christian Spirituality; Will Western Civilization Survive; A Military History of San Antonio; The Aero Space Medical Division: 25 Years of Excellence.  In addition, a number of articles were published on military and religious subjects.