The Essence of Prayer

…a genuine attempt to introduce the theory and practice of prayer to the uninitiated, in language that is accessible to all men and women. * Mount Carmel *The book has been written by one who clearly lives every word she writes…Ruth Burrows…writes with authority - and it shows! I especially appreciate how in this volume great care has been taken with the use of language, which is inclusive both as regards God and ourselves. – Elizabeth Ruth Obbard * Mount Carmel *…a valuable contribution to the vast array of books offering advice and encouragement to Christians on the subject of prayer. This book is full of insights…Ruth Burrows…reflections are thought-provoking and described with encouragement and simplicity. – John Mann * Church of Ireland Gazette *Here is a major contribution from the pen of a well-known writer on spiritual themes…An impressive offering…different from her earlier works, and well worth a little study. – Elizabeth CSF * Franciscan *It is useful as spiritual reading that will help the prayer and Christian lives of men and women living in the world. For that, it can be recommended. – Prebendary John Gaskell * Church Times *Essence of Prayer is a good introduction to the chief labour of Carmel. * The Daily Telegraph *The person who has most clearly written about this area in our own times is Ruth Burrows in books such as Essence of Prayer. – Christopher Howse * The Tablet *Ruth Burrows, the experienced Carmelite writer: hard-headed, warm-hearted, helpful and positive about God’s universal invitation to prayer. – Christopher Howse * The Tablet *This is a book that should change lives. Its central message is that everyone can pray….Essence of Prayer is a collection of short essays on prayer…this structure works better than a book hammered out to a continuous shape, because there is a chance to avoid misunderstanding by coming at a subject from a difference angle. – Christopher Howse * The Tablet *

Ruth Burrows is a Carmelite Nun from Quidenham in Norfolk, UK. She is the author of a number of bestselling books including Guidelines for Mystical Prayer and Essence of Prayer.