On the horizon are several publications by John Roger Barrie. The first is a nonfiction book, which is a compilation of eight writings on contemporary and classical spirituality that were originally delivered as lectures at the Friends of the Spirit study group in Northern California. These writings have been thoroughly revised, expanded, updated, and in some cases re-referenced for this new edition, which has been delayed and will be published in due course.
A number of prominent persons have enthusiastically endorsed this book:
Swami Swahananda, the late, longtime senior minister of the Vedanta Society of Southern California praised a chapter on the Bhagavad Gita: “Your interpretation accurately conveys the spirit and intent of this timeless Indian scripture.”
Michael Murphy, legendary Esalen co-founder, extolled one chapter on the spiritual journey: “This is a beautifully distilled, crystal-clear, supremely elegant primer for the contemplative life, rooted in the greatest spiritual masters who have graced this planet. Within its utter simplicity there resides wondrous sophistication.”
Jonathan Kirsch, prolific, bestselling author and attorney, expressed appreciation for a chapter about David, “John Roger Barrie’s insightful reading of the biblical life story of David and the Psalms offers a fresh and illuminating perspective on both the biblical texts and the traditions attached to them. Barrie makes a crucial distinction between David the king and David the Psalmist, and that’s exactly where the sparks begin to fly in his provocative work. He has something important and compelling to say to the pious student of the Bible as well as the contemporary reader who turns to the Bible as a work of literature.”
Professor Huston Smith, the late, noted authority on the world’s religions, referred to one chapter on consumerism vs. spirituality as, “Excellent and important. In his insightful survey, John Roger Barrie makes a compelling case for living the spiritual life and not becoming mired in the trappings of consumerism.”
Reverend Canon Christopher Seal, A.B., MDiv., Pastor Emeritus of Trinity Episcopal Church, Nevada City, California and author of an excellent digest on Contemplative Prayer, commended a chapter on Christ: “Christianity, as traditionally presented, places Jesus at the center but often forgets that He is a universal teacher as well as Messiah. In his essay on Christ, John Roger Barrie skillfully, and with great clarity, distills the essence of Jesus’ practical instructions for bringing about the union of heaven and earth in daily life.”
