In his book Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation M. Robert Mulholland, Jr. presents an extensive look at what Christian spiritual formation is and how we go about it.

This book has theological depth and offers a very good look at the nature and practice of spiritual formation. Mulholland manages to make theology practical here as he first lays out a definition of spiritual formation and then a road map of spiritual disciplines. I especially liked the definition presented in this book: The process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others. He also does a good treatment of the spiritual disciplines and how they are used to help accomplish the work of transformation in us.

The middle part of the book (Part II: The Vehicle: Personality and Piety) gives an excellent look at the role of individual personality in spiritual formation. Using a slightly modified version of Paul’s 1 Corinthians 12:14-21, he helps to show us that our unique personality is not something to be ignored and suppressed when it comes to spiritual growth, but rather it is something that we must embrace and understand and ultimately offer to God as he changes and refines us. Along these lines, he also explains the need of true Christian community for authentic holistic spirituality. For in such a community of believers, personalities feed off of each other and help individuals find balance.

I would recommend this book for church leaders and for people who desire to learn more about the nature and theology of spiritual formation. Mulholland is a seminary professor so his writing style can be slightly more academic, however if you take your time in reading, this will surely be a great value to your spiritual growth.

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