I have always been inspired by Albert Einstein's quotation that 'the fairest thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion which stands at the cradle of true art and true science. He who knows it not and can no longer wonder, no longer feel amazement, is as good as dead, a snuffed-out candle.'

Whilst this quotation challenges the scientist, the artist and the spiritualist, it also has implications for all of us — to accept and embrace the 'mysterious' aspects of life — whilst continuing our unending quest for answers.

Science seeks answers to all unresolved questions — including its cosmological search for the 'Holy Grail' or in Stephen Hawking's words, the 'Theory of Everything'. However, as science moves closer to the ultimate truth, even more questions and challenges emerge, with quantum physics being one prime example.

The question is then posed — can science now join forces with spirituality and religion to better understand and experience Einstein's prime emotion?

My response in this book is to highlight recurrent themes from a number of eminent authors in an endeavour to seek answers, albeit insufficient, to such questions. These authors range from brain scientists, to cosmologists, to spiritual leaders, to philosophers, to artists, to theologians, to historians, to sceptics. In excess of 160 references from a range of different genres have been accessed.

What are some of the topics? What is God; What is the nature of consciousness, soul and spirit; Are we all connected — to each other and to the natural world; Can we confirm the suggestion that we are all co-creators of the cosmos? Most importantly, how can we unveil our 'pure essence' which is shared by all on this planet.

Finally, what are the implications of these mainly empirically based findings on religion, using Christianity as a case study. Could we say that we are witnessing the green shoots of the Next Reformation of the Christian Church, totally different in nature from the first, 500 years ago.

I trust that my book provides a useful contribution to a greater understanding of Einstein's fundamental notion of the 'mysterious' or unresolved questions in life, and how we can fully embrace the enchantment of this mystery. Most importantly, it aims to support the breaking down of the barriers that separate people, communities and nations. After all, we all have a responsibility for the stewardship of this precious Earth!

John Humphreys