Mystical Theology: A Layman's Guide, is a compilation of the treatises of the French Benedictine Dom Savinien Louismet. The holy monk was a master of the spiritual life, and traces out the proper understanding of mysticism in the Catholic tradition to present guides, resources and clear theological explanation for all Catholics, both priest and lay. Drawing on all the sources of the Catholic tradition, most especially Holy Scripture, Dom Louismet provides a tour de force of spiritual teaching.
"Why," he asks, "are there so very few contemplatives even among professed Christians?" For some, he answers, it is a case of downright indifference and tepidity. "They simply do not care ... God is the least and last of their concerns." On the other hand, there are those who do care, "who would indeed like to become contemplatives in the measure and in the manner willed for them by their loving God; and perhaps some have even made an attempt toward this. Now what is it that has prevented the latter from succeeding in their attempt at Divine Contemplation? This: they have met with no encouragement. Or it has been put before them in the wrong way. Maybe they have been dissuaded from Divine Contemplation, as from something dangerous. Or, finally, they have been bewildered or disgusted by the works they have read on the subject." This book is for such persons.
This volume is comprised of four treatises: Mystical Knowledge of God, The Mystical Life, Mysticism: True and False, and finally, Divine Contemplation for All.
Dom Louismet describes the modes and processes that lead the mind and the heart-the mind in and through the heart-to the habit of divine contemplation. His work is practical, his method more synthetic and discursive.
Dom Louismet is a master in the spiritual life. In his treatise on The Mystery of Jesus, he beautifully lays out the the Christological doctrines and their importance for the mystical life. In Mystical Initiation, he opens the the depths of the Canticle of Canticles exegetically and theologically. In The Burning Bush, he focuses on the mystery of the Holy Trinity, the nature of God Himself, and how we relate to Him.
"What is written here will do much in bringing souls nearer to God, and beg Him to bless the author and the work." -Cardinal Bourne, Archbishop of Westminster.
