Mysticism, Mystical Theology, Purgative, Illuminative, Unitive 

The Triple Way of Saint Bonaventure is a marvelous gem of mystical literature, the work of a great scholastic philosopher and theologian who was also a mystic. Because he was a true son of Saint Francis, his theological work began on his knees and concluded in ecstasy. Because his idiom is no longer familiar to the great majority, we need someone to take us by the hand and guide us in our reading. This is what Father Peter Damian Fehlner does for us with consummate skill in his introduction, translation and notes, the fruit of a lifetime of studying the Seraphic Doctor. We are truly in his debt for this superb edition of a masterpiece. - Msgr. Arthur B Calkins.

Relating to St. Francis' experience of corporal stigmatization on Mount Alvernia . . . This journey commenced with the stigmatization of his heart when the Crucified spoke to him from the crucifix in San Damiano. The Crucified Savior was responding to his prayer for "enlightenment of his heart" about Christ's will for him and for that peace which exceeds all understanding, the surpassing knowledge of the love of Christ, the totus desiderabilis of the famed hymn: Jesu dulcis memoria, often cited in The Triple Way. This peace, with the wisdom accompanying it, evidently must be linked to both the mystery of the Cross and its prolongation in time and place via the mystery of the Eucharist: real presence, sacrifice and sacrament. It is this peace, surpassing all understanding, which the crucified Savior alone can give, together with the light of Truth and fire of Love, that is the proximate aim of The Triple Way. - from the Introduction.

Taken from the back cover.