A Circle in the Dark

This book invites the reader to experience Advent as a spiritual journey to Bethlehem, a journey from darkness to light. Each week explores the traditional themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love that are present throughout the season. It begins on the first Sunday of Advent inviting the reader to be open to new or unexpected encounters with God, to find the mystery and wonder so often missed in day-to-day life. Each daily meditation offers a poetic, insightful reflection on scripture verses that voice the human spirit's longing for the Holy Spirit--the continued struggle to find light in a dark world. As the journey unfolds, the reader will walk through the cold bleakness of the winter season and the bitterness of despair, guided by the hope, peace, joy, and love promised in Christ, fulfilled on Christmas Day. Those familiar with biblical texts will be drawn in by the vivid images and relevant messages of the poems. Similarly, those for whom biblical texts are less well known will find intriguing and accessible images that might prompt a desire to learn more. Laypeople and clergy across denominations will find comfort and challenge in the familiar being made new should they accept the invitation to seek the Light of Christ on the long, often difficult, journey to Bethlehem. ""These Advent meditations are the most challenging, creative, and meaningful ones ever published. Rachael Keefe integrates her biblical knowledge, her pastoral and prophetic perspectives, her psychological and spiritual understanding of persons, and her own life's pilgrimage to offer profound insights and challenges for our spiritual journey through Advent. Anyone's Advent will be enriched and made more meaningful by interacting with Keefe's soul and mind in the meditations."" -Merle Jordan Emeritus Professor Boston University School of Theology ""Rachael Keefe offers individuals and communities of faith a fresh, timely, and authentic invitation to the season of Advent. Her readers will find thought-provoking verses with references and images that confirm the complexity of modern life. Through her poetry that resonates with Scripture, she opens up multiple layers of a lived faith that keeps hope alive in the midst of doubt. Readers will find the courage to dream again. This book is a valuable resource for personal reflections and public worship."" -Sharon G. Thornton Professor of Pastoral Theology Andover Newton Theological School Rachael Keefe is the chaplain at the New Hampshire Hospital, the state psychiatric facility. She is the author of Negotiating the Shadows (2010).