Hi Jeff – great question! Yes, sadly the term “mysticism” has developed a negative connotation in many circles. However, our Catholic history is rich with mystics who have experienced a divine encounter with God that is beyond what most of us could ever dream of. St. Teresa of Avila, St John of the Cross, Julian of Norwich, St. Bernard of Clairvaux – the list goes on and on and on. Some had the stigmata, some had bodies that smelled of roses or flowers upon their death, some actually floated in the air or levitated – crazy stuff. Their stories are amazing. It seems to me that their primary messages is one of God’s total love for all of his creation – including all humans. Their message of God’s love is what draws me to study them:-) My plan is to write another book from my research paper. You have prompted me to include a chapter explaining what a church mystic is – thank you.
Blessings – Carolyn