November 26, 2005

Book Review - 'BodyPrayer'



I was quite excited to receive Doug Pagitt & Kathryn Prill's new book "BodyPrayer: The Posture of Intimacy with God", especially as I had been considering ways to enrich my own prayer life. I was not disappointed. Taking readers through a series of physical postures to be give outward expression to our prayers, the authors open up an approach to this discipline for the whole self. This small volume is a very accessible and practical tool that would be helpful for anyone.

Each short chapter provides a brief exploration and explanation of each physical posture and its intended meaning. Giving both simple, but detailed instructions for the posture and helpful (and attractive) illustrations (by C.S. Olson), the book provides an excellent tool for both individual and group prayer. With the Christmas season approaching, this small book would make an great stocking stuffer.

At Scot McKnight's review of the book, he suggested that the authors would do well to further develop the deeper theology behind the practice. While I agree with Scot in this regards, I also appreciate that the book is in such format and level that is both profound and accessible. I have already begun to use it personally and in groups.

I highly recommend this book.

Note: As a side note, I am surprised how often Kathryn Prill is not mentioned as an author when the book is discussed online. Just an observation, take it for what it's worth.
Posted by Jamie Arpin-Ricci at 12:45:47 | Permanent Link | Comments (7) |
Comments
1 - I am surprised how often Stevenson is not mentioned as an author when the book is discussed online. Just my observation though... (Comment this)

Written by: the other jamie at 2005/11/28 - 22:21:32
2 - LOL! 'The Other Jamie", you are going to confuse people! Ahhh, Stevenson... (Comment this)

Written by: Jamie Arpin-Ricci at 2005/11/28 - 23:02:53
3 - I looked at your map. Very cool! Do you know the folks in Africa? How about Indonesia? (Comment this)

Written by: cindy at 2005/11/30 - 00:10:11
4 - Cindy,

Alot of the people viewing are probably YWAMer's. I know people in YWAM all over the planet. Such is the life of a global soul!

Peace,
Jamie (Comment this)

Written by: Jamie Arpin-Ricci at 2005/11/30 - 00:20:31
5 - Speaking of knowing people in YWAM all over... my friend Jason is attending DTS in Turner Valley... I'd like to think that he's there because I suggested it, but it's more likely because he felt God's guidance to go there (after I suggested it LOL) Had I known that he was actually considering it, I would have suggested he stay here in Manitoba and do DTS here! (Comment this)

Written by: Jezreel Cohen at 2005/11/30 - 02:55:18
6 - Haven't read the book, but I will.

I love the idea of postures and what sort of atmosphere they can create. When I lived in Arizona for a few stints, the church I attended was into kneeling. At first I thought it was weird (since I'd never done it), but later I found it wonderfully helpful in submission and concentration. (Comment this)

Written by: Lukas McKnight at 2005/11/30 - 18:02:07
7 - so am I, Jamie. So.Am.I.

-kathryn prill (Comment this)

Written by: kp at 2005/12/01 - 19:40:22
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