Breathing Under Water

Richard Rohr continues to guide us to greater wholeness. The latest example is his new book, Breathing Under Water. A prolific writer, his books have helped countless souls, especially those who struggle with issues of brokenness and seek transformation. * National Catholic Reporter *Spirituality is perhaps an ill-chosen word in this book’s subtitle, given that Rohr’s characterization of Christianity is (and always has been) relentlessly incarnational. Here his identification of the gospel with the core tenets of Alcoholics Anonymous underscores how redemption comes to us in and through the messes we make of our lives, not despite them. Anyone with first- or even second-hand knowledge of the Twelve Steps can attest to the unsettling challenges they present to safe, respectable, middle-class Christianity: “When the churches forget their own gospel message, the Holy Spirit sneaks in through the ducts and air vents. AA meetings have been very good ductwork, allowing fresh air both in and out of many musty and mildewed churches.” * The Christian Century *Breathing Under Water is a must-read for any person who recognizes the need to go “inward” on their soul’s journey to question what their relationship is with God, themselves, and others. The author guides us on a journey that begins with a powerlessness or being shipwrecked on a deserted island. It is God’s greatest surprise and constant disguise. We always want to be the manager of our lives. But God makes sure that several things will come our way that we cannot manage on our own… What Breathing Under Water comes to be is an understanding that those people who have undergone suffering and pain come up to be a compassionate people, loved by God, to be there for others experiencing a similar challenge in life. Rohr summarizes that a graced moment from God is when the suffering people can love and trust a suffering God, and through this deep transformation, will save and be there for one another. – Paula J. Scraba, PhD * The Cord *This book offers us all a taste of the deep compassion of Christ towards and within our communities. – Will van der Hart * Christianity Magazine *rich as a plum puddingit revitalised [his] moribund prayer life * Expository Times *a well laid out workout for the soul; pointing to a wisdom that spells genuine freedom * Inspire Magazine *

Fr. Richard Rohr is a Franciscan priest of the New Mexico Province. He founded the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1986, where he presently serves as Founding Director. An internationally known speaker, he teaches on such themes as adult Christian spirituality, men’s spirituality, and politics and spirituality, and has published many books, including Falling Upward and Immortal Diamond.