Reforesting the Soul

“In this book, Andrew Mayes invites us to move from an egocentric to an ecocentric view of the soul. Using biblical texts and spiritual writings combined with images of environmental harm and renewal, Mayes shows us how to replant and nurture our inner life. Stepping through the chapters, under the canopy of contrasting trees from the Bible, prayerful exercises help the reader reconnect with the world in a more sustainable way.”


—Mark Betson, Church of England national public policy advisor, Lambeth Palace





“From the garden of Eden to the forested avenue outside the New Jerusalem, trees fill the Bible and the Christian imagination. Here Andrew Mayes invites us to see the parallels between our ecologically devastated landscapes and the deserts of our inner world. Drawing widely from the rich writings of saints, prophets, and poets, this delightful, timely and practical book will be refreshing guidance for those who long for the gift of re-creation. Read this and flourish!”


—Chris Webb, deputy warden, Launde Abbey





“Reforesting the Soul is stimulating and inspirational. The prayer exercises challenged me at a deep level and encouraged me to move forward and come to a new closeness to Christ. Praying with trees was a new experience for me, and the feeling of being embraced and challenged by the trees as I sat under them drew me to feeling loved and strengthened and brought to a new inner peace.”


—Patricia Townshend, retreatant, Borderlands Retreats





“A deep dive into biblical forest reserves, stunning and moving metaphors, and wisdom teachers provides new inspiration and cleverly encourages the reader to reflect on the exciting possibilities of creating new forests, spiritual and physical.”


—Tony Lane, chartered forester