Ashley Cocksworth presents Karl Barth as a theologian who not only produces a strong and vibrant theology of prayer, but also grounds theology itself in the practice of prayer. Prayer and theology are revealed to be integrally related in Barth's understanding of the dogmatic task. Cocksworth provides careful analysis of a range of key texts in Barth's thought in which the theme of prayer emerges with particular interest. He analyzes: Barth's writings on the Sabbath and uncovers an unexpected theology of contemplative prayer; the doctrine of creation of the Church Dogmatics and explores its prioritization of petitionary prayer; and the ethics of the doctrine of reconciliation in which a 'turn to invocation' is charted and the final 'resting place' of Barth's theology of prayer is found. Through the theme of prayer fundamental questions are asked about the relation of human agency to divine agency as conceived by Barth, and new insights are offered into his understandings of the nature and task of theology, pneumatology, sin, baptism, religion, and sanctification. The result is a rich engagement with Barth's theology of prayer, an advancements of scholarship on Karl Barth, and a constructive contribution to the theology of prayer.

In Simple Ways to Pray, Emilie Griffin offers her readers an intimate and accessible introduction to the history and practice of prayer in the Catholic tradition. Meaning both to engage the beginner and encourage the experienced, Griffin explores the different types, devotional styles and techniques of prayer as well as outlining practical strategies for starting and sustaining an interior spiritual life. Describing prayer as "that deep urgency or longing for something beyond something greater than ourselves," Griffin extends an open and inclusive invitation to all readers to put themselves in the presence of God. And, by doing so, to open up their hands, minds and hearts to receive the full potential of God's love and know the richness of living an engaged spiritual life. This book is ideal for individual or group use in parishes and classrooms."