More and more Jews are seeking religious meaning in their lives, in nature, in study groups, in community events and service projects anywhere, as long as it's not in a synagogue. Making Prayer Real is a no-holds-barred look at why so many find synagogue sanctuary at best difficult, and at worst, meaningless and boring and how to make them more satisfying.

Putting prayer before prayerbook, Making Prayer Real offers a new and different response to the challenges of Jewish prayer. Drawing from over thirty interviews with Jewish spiritual leaders from all denominations, as well as their "best prayer practices," it entices and inspires the reader to become a "prayer person," one who engages in prayer to play the heart-strings of the soul.

Original essays from Jewish spiritual leaders address the efficacy of prayer: how prayer changes us and how to discern a response from God. Author Rabbi Mike Comins then guides the

reader in cultivating their own personal prayer.

Explore the connections between God, wilderness and Judaism. This comprehensive how-to guide to the theory and practice of Jewish wilderness spirituality unravels the mystery of Judaism's connection to the natural world and offers ways for you to enliven and deepen your spiritual life through wilderness experience. Over forty practical exercises provide detailed instruction on spiritual practice in the natural world, including: Mindfulness exercises for the trail Meditative walking Four-Winds wisdom from Jewish tradition Wilderness blessings Soul-O Site solitude practice in wilderness Wilderness retreat For wilderness lovers and nature novices alike, this inspiring and insightful book will lead you through experiences of awe and wonder in the natural world. It will show you the depth and relevance of Judaism to your spiritual awareness in wilderness and teach you new ways to energize your relationship with God and prayer."