Thank you Ave Maria Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.

Illuminate is a journal to use in a group setting with others, to explore and meditate on the advent through St John 1:1-14.

Based on four weeks of the Advent Month, the book is broken into four parts : word, light, faith and life.

Each day has beautiful words to create a real sense of contemplation. I particularly liked the passage on hermitage and it being a place of presence, “the most radical simplicity on of life”.

Each week concluded with lovely reflection questions.

There were quotes and prayers dotted throughout and the beginning of each week had beautifully coloured artwork on the pages.

A lovely book for those seeking deeper contemplation throughout Advent.

Illuminate is a great guided meditation and journal book. While designed for small groups, I found it can also be a great resource when used individually. I loved the artwork as it seemed to perfectly capture the essence of light and the role the season ushers in regarding the true Light. It is a four-week journey through John 1: 1-14. Fr. John Nepil pulls from reflections from Norwegian readings to better examine the journey from darkness to Light. The pattern is the same each week, an idea, a meditation, reflection questions, and a closing prayer. There is an entry for each day of the week and space to journal your thoughts as you reflect on the questions or themes that move you, challenge you, or encourage you. In full disclosure, I did read this while it is not yet Advent, but I am glad I found it because it will be a resource I look forward to utilizing during an upcoming advent season.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.