A practical approach to the intriguing topic of early spiritual learning, Before Belief: Discovering First Spiritual Awareness draws the reader into an experience of self-exploration and discovery. Its narrative format invites and equips pastors, spiritual directors and others to translate these ideas and exercises for people at any and all stages of life. I look forward to making use of it at church, in the university classroom, for retreats, and in aged care settings.

Jane Kuepfer, Conrad Grebel University College

Bruce Stevens offers us a fascinating and important perspective on the dynamics of what he terms 'unconscious spiritual learning.' He does this by combining the best insights of his professional work as a psychologist and clinician together with his many decades of practical experience and theological reflection as an minister of religion. The result is an extremely accessible and stimulating account of the emergence of the spiritual senses before belief.

Stephen Pickard, executive director, Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Charles Sturt University