Called as pope, St. John Paul II emerged onto St. Peter's balcony proclaiming, "Do not be afraid!" What theology and mystery inspired this surprising proclamation? John Paul II's quest for holiness was grounded in the mystical insight that we participate in God. We seek the Beatific Vision, the Face of God, through which we are transformed in theosis or divinization. This infusion of grace perfects and unites us. In this book readers will find engaging theology intermixed with spiritual direction and lectio divina meditations. Utilizing Aquinas' method of scriptural interpretation, we are offered ways of seeking spiritual fulfillment to behold the Beatific Vision.Fr. Tom Kuffel shares personal experiences from his time studying and working in Rome, Nebraska, and Alaska. Reflecting on his own priesthood, his fascinating narratives encourage our own spiritual growth. Readers find fresh ways of engaging Scripture through St. John Paul II's New Pentecost, encouraging new interpretations of Vatican II.

Thomas P. Kuffel served in New Mexico, Rome, Grenada, Nebraska, and Alaska. He has given retreats to the Missionaries of Charity and the sisters living at the Carmel of Holy Trinity, Hawaii, overlooking Mount Olomana, the inspiration of this book. An internationally recognized expert on French Catholic mystic Madame Jeanne Guyon, Nancy Carol James has published eleven books on mysticism.