The Universal Christ

Synopsis

'I cannot put this book down' - BONO

'One of the most influential speakers in the world' - OPRAH WINFREY

In his decades as a globally recognized teacher, Richard Rohr has helped millions realize what is at stake in matters of faith and spirituality. Yet Rohr has never written on the most perennially talked about topic in Christianity: Jesus. Most know who Jesus was, but who was Christ? Is the word simply Jesus' last name? Too often, Rohr writes, our understanding has been limited by culture, religious squabbling, and the human tendency to put ourselves at the centre.

Drawing on scripture, history and spiritual practice, Rohr articulates a transformative view of Jesus Christ as a portrait of God's constant, unfolding work in the world. 'God loves things by becoming them,' he writes, and Jesus' life was meant to declare that humanity has never been separate from God - except by its own negative choice. When we recover this fundamental truth, faith becomes less about proving Jesus was God, and more about learning to recognize the Creator's presence all around us and in everyone we meet.

Thought-provoking, practical and full of deep hope and vision, The Universal Christ is a landmark book from one of our most beloved spiritual writers, and an invitation to contemplate how God liberates and loves all that is.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Universal Christ: A New Way of Seeing

This chapter introduces the concept of the Universal Christ as a spiritual force that transcends all religions and cultures. Author Richard Rohr uses the example of Thomas Merton, a Catholic monk who found spiritual inspiration in Eastern religions. Rohr argues that the Universal Christ is a catalyst for unity and transformative change in the world.

Chapter 2: The Seven Universal Principles

Rohr identifies seven universal principles that guide the path of the Universal Christ:

1. Wholeness: Embracing the interconnectedness of all things
2. Compassion: Treating all beings with love and kindness
3. Humility: Recognizing the limitations of our own understanding
4. Justice: Seeking fairness and equity for all
5. Non-violence: Rejecting violence in all its forms
6. Simplicity: Living a life of simplicity and gratitude
7. Contemplation: Cultivating inner silence and reflection

Example: The work of the Dalai Lama, a Tibetan Buddhist leader, exemplifies these principles. He promotes compassion, non-violence, and dialogue between different faiths.

Chapter 3: The Fourfold Path

Rohr outlines a fourfold path to deepening our connection with the Universal Christ:

1. Embracing Darkness: Confronting our shadows and fears
2. Opening to Grace: Receiving the gifts of the Spirit
3. Surrender and Transformation: Releasing control and allowing change
4. Living from the Center: Finding a place of inner peace and stability

Example: The story of St. Francis of Assisi demonstrates the power of this path. Through his encounters with the poor and his radical embrace of poverty, Francis experienced a profound spiritual transformation.

Chapter 4: The Mystical Tradition

Rohr explores the mystical tradition as a way of knowing the Universal Christ through direct experience. He emphasizes the importance of silence, solitude, and surrender in cultivating a mystical connection.

Example: The writings of Meister Eckhart, a 13th-century German mystic, offer profound insights into the nature of God and the soul's journey.

Chapter 5: The Cosmic Christ

Rohr widens the lens to consider the Universal Christ in relation to the cosmos. He presents the concept of the "Cosmic Christ" as a manifestation of the divine in all creation.

Example: The scientific discovery of the interconnectedness of all living organisms supports the idea of a Cosmic Christ that transcends individual identities.

Chapter 6: The Future of Christianity

Rohr shares his vision for a future Christianity that is based on the Universal Christ. He believes that Christianity must move beyond its historical limitations and embrace a broader, more inclusive understanding of God and spirituality.

Example: The work of progressive Christian organizations, such as Sojourners, demonstrates the potential for Christianity to be a force for unity and social justice in the world.