Oneing: Falling Upward

Established in 2013, ONEING is the biannual journal of the Center for Action and Contemplation. Renowned for its diverse and deep exploration of mysticism and culture, ONEING is grounded in Richard Rohr’s teachings and wisdom lineage. Each issue features a themed collection of thoughtfully curated essays and critical perspectives from spiritual teachers, activists, modern mystics, and prophets of all religions. 

Inspired by one of Richard Rohr’s most popular books, Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life, this issue of Oneing features articles and poems that reflect the journey from the first half of life to the second and the liminal period in between: the struggles and challenges of the first half of life, the transition into the second half of life, and the experiences of both in preparation to fully embrace the “further journey.”

In Falling Upward, Rohr helps us to understand the tasks of the two halves of life and teaches us that those who have failed, or gone down, are the only ones who can really understand the meaning of “up.” Those who have somehow fallen, and fallen well, are the only ones who can grow spiritually and not misuse “up.” In the words of Rohr’s favorite English mystic, Julian of Norwich (1343–1416), “First the fall, and then the recovery from the fall, and both are the mercy of God.”

This issue features contributions from Lavera Crawley, Seth Wilmor, Patrick Boland, Michelle A. Scheidt, James P. Danaher, Ilia Delio, Paul Swanson, Christian Peele, Nicholas Kramer, Erin Sanzero, Sheryl Fullerton, Mark Muldoon, Kaitlin B. Curtice, James Finley, and Mark S. Burrows.

Vol. 11, No. 2, Fall 2023

Print Edition. Also available as a digital download.