Soul Provider: Spiritual Steps to Limitless Love Book

This contemporary look at the seventh-century classic The Ladder of Divine Ascent brilliantly illuminates the enduring relevance of centuries-old spiritual concepts.

In The Ladder of Divine Ascent, Saint John Climacus described the thirty steps all seekers must take on the path to spiritual fulfillment. In Soul Provider, Edward L. Beck brings a fresh, modern sensibility to this classic work of Christian literature and its ideas, explaining how they relate to our lives today.

Using real-life stories and experiences and incorporating all of the major religious traditions, Beck shows how the thirty steps lead to a deeper understanding of the ideas that guide our journeys, provide for our souls, and draw us closer to God. Beginning each chapter with an illustrative anecdote, Beck explains the significance of each of the steps, discussing its importance in Christian tradition and offering thoughtful, inspiring ways to incorporate it into present-day spiritual journeys.

Soul Provider explores the connections between “old” spiritual notions and spirituality as it is practiced and expressed in modern culture. As Beck deftly weaves the past and the present, he reveals the true path to the limitless love we all desire.

Publishers Weekly

Sometimes in the quest for a deeper spirituality, we need to be reminded of the basics-the fundamental stepping stones toward spiritual progress throughout life. Beck, a Catholic priest, member of the Passionist religious order, and author of God Underneath, has an extraordinary gift for diving into the Christian spiritual tradition and emerging with profound perspectives and wisdom that speak directly to the heart. For this project, Beck looks to early seventh-century mystic St. John Climacus and his classic work The Ladder of Divine Ascent, and shows, step by step, how these ancient spiritual prescriptions for the good life are just as vital today. A gifted writer and storyteller, Beck delivers straightforward, honest and at times poignant prose, tying his own life experiences in when appropriate. All of the chapters integrate helpful quotations and end with reflection questions to aid readers with their own prayers. Writing about his inspiration for this book, the author states, "I was encouraged to face my vices and demons, assured that they didn't have the power to overcome me, and then to move on." Beck conveys similar encouragement through this work, and many people will benefit. (Oct. 16)