MSI Press Blog

  Visions are among the most striking of mystical experiences. They can come as a single, vivid image that imprints itself on the mind, or as a living sequence—like a film unfolding before the inner eye. Some arrive with accompanying words, forming a hybrid of vision and locution. Others are purely visual, silent yet eloquent. The saints and spiritual writers—from Teresa of Ávila and John of the Cross to Thomas Dubay—agree that visions are not rewards for holiness but instruments of grace. They are meant to teach, correct, or console, and they require discernment as much as wonder. 🌿 The Three Main Types of Vision 1. The Single Image A single, unmistakable image that conveys meaning without words. It may appear suddenly, often in prayer or contemplation, and carry a clear directive or insight. Example: Years ago, Elizabeth Mahlou saw the image of a colleague whom she barely knew imprinted on her last bottle of holy water from the Baptismal Site every time she happened to look a...

  Recently, Spiritually Homeless (Girrell), reached #93 in faith and spirituality. #117 in mysticism and spirituality, and #235 in spiritual growth. Book description: Many have walked away from organized religion not out of apathy, but out of honesty. Still the spiritual hunger remains; the longing for community and a place called home persists. Spiritually Homeless offers a deeply compassionate and practical guide for those navigating spiritual life beyond church walls. Whether you left organized religion years ago or never belonged to some sect to begin with, this book will meet you right where you are. Through stories, reflection, and decades of experience in spiritual leadership and psychological insight, Spiritually Homelesss explores how we find belonging, create ritual, face the dark night, and rediscover awe—without needing to return to doctrines that no longer fit. keywords: spiritual hunger; spiritual seekers; leaving organized religion; life beyond church; spiritual...

  . Across centuries, mystics in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have sought the same thing — direct experience of the Divine . Though their languages and symbols differ, their hearts speak a shared truth: that God is not only to be believed, but encountered . ✡️ Jewish Mysticism — The Hidden Light Roots: Emerged from ancient prophetic visions and later developed into Kabbalah (meaning “receiving”). Focus: Understanding the hidden structure of creation and the soul’s ascent toward divine unity. Key ideas: Ein Sof — the Infinite, beyond comprehension. Sefirot — ten emanations through which divine energy flows into the world. Tikkun olam — spiritual repair of creation through righteous living. Practice: Meditation on sacred letters, study of Torah as mystical revelation, ethical refinement. Tone: Intellectual yet deeply devotional — the mystic as scholar and lover of divine mystery. Essence: To know God by tracing the hidden light within creation. ✝️ Christian Mysticism — T...