Advanced Review – Uncorrected Proof
Issue: November 15, 2011
Women, Spirituality and Transformative Leadership:
Where Grace Meets Power.
Schaaf, Kathe (Editor) and Lindahl, Kay (Editor) and Hurty, Kathleen S. (Editor) and Cheen, Guo (Editor)
Dec 2011. 250 p. SkyLight Paths, hardcover, $24.99. (9781594733130). 204.082.
Blending the interdisciplinary approaches of a Buddhist nun, Certified Listening Professional, teaching fellow at Lutheran Theological Seminary, and cofounder of Gather the Women Global Matrix, the four editors have twined their wisdom with those of the outstanding contributors to this essay collection to create a dynamic conversation about women’s spiritual leadership power. Reconnection with women’s deepest spiritual roots and global reclamation of women’s rightful place as spiritual leaders are two necessary steps examined in four explorations featuring writing from diverse individuals, including author Jean Bolen, a physician, and Benedictine nun Joan Chittester. Each exploration into empowerment, spirituality, diversity, women’s collective impact, and the channeling of transformative powers ends with a focus on leadership, which includes specific questions, blessings, leadership tools, and a culminating Digging Deeper. Incisive quotes and poetry illuminate and amplify the synergizing energy as writers consider sacred-circle practices, meditation, and art. With endnotes, a bibliography, and detailed listings of resources and networks, this is a comprehensive and invaluable volume with strong mainstream appeal.
— Whitney Scott