This thick volume introduces us to the world's most influential spiritual teachers, we are given brief biographies set in context and summaries of their teaching and of their continuing influence today. This is a great reference book and includes many lesser known figures as well as the usual suspects, which is refreshing. I found that it stimulated further reading and the exploration into the writings of those with whom I was not familiar. We are encouraged to ponder on who would be in our choice of the top one hundred, and to reflect on why we have been so influenced, to 'claim our inheritance of spiritual riches' ~ The Inner Light, Volume 35 number 2

Marcus Braybrooke is to be thanked for stretching our minds with some of his choices. He closes with a chapter on WHICH BEACON SHINES MOST BRIGHTLY. Thus good reading for 101 nights. ~ Richard Boeke, Amazon

This book is a truly excellent up-to-date refernce book, and will be used as such. .....rich in biography and Braybrooke emphasizes the truth that we are heirs of the spiritual wisdom of every time and place. The Light, despite its manifold sources, is like the lighthouse on the book cover, reflective of the underlying spiritual harmony which transcends the differences between religions. .....An invaluable and comprehensive addition to the author's 40+ books on religion and interfaith. ~ K.G., Faith and Freedom

We've had rich lists and power lists before. Now Marcus Braybrooke, a retired vicar, has produced the "holy list", selecting 100 people who he believes have done the most to shape the history of humanity. It should come as no surprise that an Anglican cleric has decided that Christ is the most influential figure. However, as co-founder of the Three Faiths Forum - an organisation that encourages mutual respect and understanding - he has been careful to make the top 10 representive of the major faiths. ~ Jonathan Wynne-Jones, Telegraph Blog

A very thoughtful array of spiritual giants. There is so little here with which to quarrel. The effect of reading a book such as this may be more, by the author's implicit intent, not merely to gain acquisition of knowledge, but to acquire some measure of enhanced spiritual awareness. ~ Elizabeth Harris, Interreligion Insight

This is an interesting and learned book. It will be useful to people new to religion in general as well as to those hoping to extend their knowledge of faiths different from their own. The reader is introduced to such a variety of intersting characters in a short space that one can only be grateful for the wealth of information offered. ~ Dorothy Buglass, Universalist

I never expected to read a book in which Calvin, Guru Nanak, Mohammed and Francis of Assisi sat side by side, along with 96 others, in the pantheon of the ‘world’s most influential religious figures’. Probably only Marcus Braybrooke, with his unparalleled grasp of the world’s religious scene, would have attempted it - and only one with his genuine openness of spirit could have succeeded. It’s a book that should be on the shelf of anyone who wishes to understand the astonishing variety of ways in which religious faith has shaped the way human beings live and the way they think. ~ Canon David Winter, Former Head of BBC Religious Broadcasting.

With his usual brilliance, intelligence and lucid language Marcus Braybrooke has given us an insight into the greats who have inspired him to become involved in interfaith work.This book is a much needed guide helping us all understand and hopefully adopt those values which could lead to peace in the complex multi-faith environment in which we now live. With his breadth of knowledge, enthusiasm, diligent work and sensitivity, Marcus has become a 'beacon' for others, including myself, to follow. A really important read. ~ Rabbi Jackie Tabick, Chair of the World Congress of Faiths, London

Seeing the spiritual history of mankind through the eyes of wise elders from all cultures and religions reminds us of our common humanity and points the way to a peaceful future. ~ Alison Van Dyk, Chair, Temple of Understanding, New York

Beacons of Light continues the series of invaluable contributions that Marcus Braybrooke has made to furthering interreligious understanding and respect among people of different faith traditions;. Everyone will benefit from this book. Newcomers to interfaith exposure will take a giant leap forward. Experienced participants will also learn from this well-researched and eloquently expressed volume. At the end, readers can agree with the author's selection and categorization of "the one hundred people who have had the greatest influence on the spiritual life of the world," or they can accept his invitation to make their own list. Either way, their judgement will be illuminated by the succinct, informative biographical sketches of these people who are, indeed, Beacons of light. ~ Dr Bill Lesher, Chair of the Council for a Parliament of the World Religions, Chicago

Beacons of Light is a priceless and inspiring gift from the good and open heart of one of the global interfaith movement’s wisest and most respected leaders, Marcus Braybrooke. It is impossible to read without being spiritually enriched. Your heart and mind will be opened by this treasure of a book that shines with the brightness of 100 of humanity’s greatest lights. ~ Revd Charles Gibbs, Executive Director of the United Religions Initiative

I like the style - it is accessible, dense and thorough. It leaves room for questions to be asked. ~ Paul Carling, Director of Religious Studies, Sherbourne College

Marcus Braybrooke is one of the most significant Christians I have ever met ~ Rabbi Tony Bayfield, Head of the Movement for Reform Judaism and a President of the Council of Christians and Jews, Head of the Movement for Reform Judaism and a President of the Council of Christians and Jews. Quotation from 'The Church Times'