CREATIVITY AND PRAYER
Dr. Ruth Fowke and Dr. Pam Dodson
Eagle. 144 pages. £5.99
ISBN 0863472788
The purpose of this book is stated on the cover: 'Using creativity as an extension to prayer and as a way to wholeness.' In ten chapters, the authors seek to encourage our relationship with God through the dance, painting, gardening etc..
Each chapter finishes with suggestions on how to implement the particular activity being encouraged. While agreeing with all my heart that 'you don't have to be on your knees to pray', I found this book deeply unsatisfying, with my attention disturbed by the absurdities of some of the activities suggested. Dr. Fowke's psychiatric training is much in evidence, together with a mystic emphasis more in keeping with monastic retreats than ordinary life.
The book is well produced, though some of the author's illustrations must give more pleasure to the painter than the readers. The chapters begin with Scripture but the application is sometimes surprising, e.g.: 'Groans that words cannot express' = doodling capable of being a visible counterpart of this experience.
Does the following 'creative suggestion' appeal to you? 'Play in the presence of God . . . crumple paper into a ball. Toss it in the air, throw it at the window . . . notice your thoughts, they are part of your present awareness, ask how might God be regarding you at this moment. Let these things be the focus of your prayer today.'
I would save my money!
