Embark on a Journey of Becoming More Like Christ

M. Robert Mulholland Jr. defines spiritual formation as "the process of being formed in the image of Christ for the sake of others." Compact and solid, this definition encompasses the dynamics of a vital Christian life and counters our culture's tendency to make spirituality a trivial matter or reduce it to a private affair between "me and Jesus."

In Invitation to a Journey, Mulholland offers valuable insights for Christians both new and old, emphasizing that becoming like Christ is a gradual process, not an instant transformation. Recognizing that not all personalities thrive with traditional practices like early morning quiet times, he encourages you to express your devotion to God in ways that work for you. Mulholland thoughtfully explores the classical spiritual disciplines, demonstrating the importance of undertaking your spiritual journey with (and for the sake of) others.

In this revised and expanded edition, you'll find:



- Additions, revisions, and new foreword by Ruth Haley Barton,

- Spiritual practices for individual and group application, and

- A study guide to provide spiritual direction for groups seeking spiritual companionship for one another on the journey of transformation.

Invitation to a Journey is a call to dig deeper, to slow down, and to experience the profound transformation that comes with intentional spiritual practices. Whether you're seeking renewal, guidance, or simply a richer relationship with God and others, this book will be a trusted companion for your journey.



M. Robert Mulholland Jr. (1936-2015) was emeritus professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He was the author of several books, including Shaped by the Word and The Deeper Journey.



Ruth Haley Barton (DD, Northern Seminary) is founder of the Transforming Center, a ministry dedicated to strengthening the souls of pastors, leaders, and the communities they serve. Trained at the Shalem Institute and the Loyola University Chicago Institute of Pastoral Studies, she is a seasoned spiritual director, teacher, and retreat leader who has served on the pastoral staff of several churches. Ruth is the author of numerous books on the spiritual life, including Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership, Invitation to Solitude and Silence, Sacred Rhythms, and Embracing Rhythms of Work and Rest.



Foreword by Ruth Haley Barton



Prologue

Part I. The Road Map: The Nature of Spiritual Formation



1. The Process



2. Being Formed



3. The Image of Christ



4. For the Sake of Others

Part II. The Vehicle: Personality and Piety



5. Creation Gifts



6. One-Sided Spirituality



7. Holistic Spirituality

Part III. The Journey: Spiritual Disciplines



8. The Classical Christian Pilgrimage



9. Classical Spiritual Disciplines



10. The Nature of the Spiritual Disciplines



11. The Inner Dynamics of the Spiritual Disciplines

Part IV. Companions on the Way: Corporate and Social Spirituality



12. Corporate Spirituality



13. Social Spirituality



Study Guide



Acknowledgments



Notes