The most in-depth and scholarly panorama of Western spirituality ever attempted! In one series, the original writings of the universally acknowledged teachers of the Catholic, Protestant, Eastern Orthodox, Jewish, Islamic and Native American traditions have been critically selected, translated and introduced by internationally recognized scholars and spiritual leaders. The texts are first-rate, and the introductions are informative and reliable. The books will be a welcome addition to the bookshelf of every literate religious persons". -- The Christian Century

Liechty presents selections from writings of the Anabaptist movement that illustrate the Anabaptists' distinctive approach to Christian spirituality. The writings represent the multiple origins of Anabaptism, with selections from three main groupings: Swiss, South German/Austrian, and North German/Dutch.

In spite of its enormous historical significance and increased contemporary interest, this is the first general introduction to the spirituality of the Anabaptist tradition. Anabaptist spirituality has been described as "both Catholic and Protestant," a sixteenth-century ascetic lay reform movement inspired both by currents of pre-Reformation devotion to Christ and the Reformation call to return to Scripture. Because of their insistence on adult baptism Anabaptists -- often illiterate artisans and peasants with no formal theological education -- met widespread persecution. Arnold Snyder's sympathetic study draws on court records to give an intimate glimpse into their beliefs, practices, and spirituality. As well as inspiring such groups as the Mennonites, the Amish and various groups of Brethren and Baptists, Anabaptist ideas have profoundly influenced individuals and movements throughout the churches into modern times. Book jacket.

Christians searching for a closer walk with God have tended to ignore Anabaptism. Through this collection of of writings by early Anabaptist leaders, the author shows they had much to say about knowing God and trusting Jesus.

This handbook of Anabaptism and Spiritualism provides an informative survey of recent scholarship on the Radical Reformation, from the 1520s to the end of the eighteenth century. Each chapter offers a narrative summary that engages current research and suggests directions for future study.