Mystical Darkness: The Dark Night in the Life of Padre Pio

"Christian mysticism is oftentimes misunderstood in contemporary society. Br. Thomas presents a comprehensive understanding of mysticism in general and mystical darkness in particular. This is accomplished by examining the Western tradition in the perspective of Sts. Bonaventure and John of the Cross. Emphasis is given to the ‘dark night’ and how this is integral to the mystical ascent toward union with God. Br. Thomas provides the example of a contemporary mystic, Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, as one whose life was the lived expression of the ‘dark night’."