<p>"Maybe the best advice for those who want to weave spirituality into their lives—whether meditation, prayer, or anything else—is to Just Begin. In this work, subtitled Sourcebook of Spiritual Practices. religious studies professor Dann E. Wigner introduces 40 different practices from Eastern and Western traditions—from mindfulness to music, yoga to the Lord's Prayer. There are plenty of choices, if we can only begin."<br /> ––<i>Publisher's Weekly</i></p><p>"Dann Wigner offers a contemporary updating of classic Christian practices that can help Jesus's followers actually live the life he promised. Practicing these exercises with the flexibility Wigner suggests leads toward the 'union with God' that is the Jesus life. Quoting Merton, Wigner reminds us that we're all beginners who must begin every day doing what helps us become who we want to be tomorrow."<br /> ––Dr. Fred Meeks, Emeritus Professor of Religion, Wayland Baptist Seminary</p><p>"In a world in which, as Dann Wigner puts it, 'motion is our default setting' pausing to engage in spiritual practices can seem like an impossible task. Yet God desires relationship and promises to meet us as we are. With Just Begin, Dann Wigner, deconstructs twenty-five spiritual practices into a 'how to guide,' lowering the hurdle for beginners by describing each practice in simple language appropriate for people of all ages. Wigner even anticipates common questions of beginners. Spiritual directors, Christian educators, school chaplains and anyone leading a community of faith will want to have at least two copies—one to have and one to lend. Just Begin is a welcomed addition to any library of books about spiritual practices. As Wigner invites his readers, find the one or ones that resonate with you and 'just begin.'"<br /> ––Jenifer C. Gamber, Assistant to the Rector and Day School Chaplain at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C</p><p>"Dann Wigner's insights as a religious studies scholar who practices what he preaches make Just Begin an essential guide for opening up centuries' worth of spiritual practices for those seeking wisdom in the present day. This book has just the right blend of gentle guidance and practical advice for the next steps on your spiritual journey."<br /> ––Gladys Ganiel, Queens University Belfast, Ireland</p><p>"Just Begin is author Dann Wigner's admonition to those who ponder adding a spiritual discipline to their daily schedules. Just Begin is written as a resource. Dr. Wigner has found just the right approach to surveying the spiritual disciplines. The book is full of wit, wisdom, and wonder. I anticipate using it as a teaching tool and as a personal reference in my daily practice."<br /> ––The Rev. Pat Russell, Spiritual Director</p><p>"Ready to live more fully? Dann Wigner's book, Just Begin: A Sourcebook of Spiritual Practices, opens doors to deeper intimacy with oneself, others, and God. This book is beautifully balanced, includes a wide range of spiritual practices, and encourages readers to adapt these to their own preferences. The greatest quality of Dann's book is its accessibility and value to all of us in our various stages of spiritual development. So let's get this treasure and just begin!"<br /> ––The Rev. Dr. Madoc Thomas, pastor of New Home United Methodist Church, Lubbock, Texas</p><p>"<i>Just Begin</i> is about discovery, meaning, and grace. Through a variety of spiritual practices, you are invited into stillness and quiet. In these open spaces of time and rhythm, you can listen to your soul and encounter the whisper of God. For this contemplative person, the book was an amazing guide to options that invite one to go deeper and to just "be" in the presence of our God!"<br /> ––Cookie Cantwell, Youth Ministries Coordinator, St. James Parish, Wilmington, North Carolina</p>