Merchant to Mystic

The Hero’s Journey of Francis of Assisi

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  • "Rooted in solid theology, psychological insight, and his own contemplative instincts, Craig Bullock's book is a must read for anyone in search of a hero's inspiration to live a meaningful and adventurous life. I wholeheartedly recommend it!”

    Richard Rohr

  • "Isha Das has brought Francis and Clare alive here! This book is filed with wisdom, insight, truth, beauty, and goodness—a definite read."

    Ann Wachter OSF, a Franciscan Sister of Allegany, NY

  • "In this deep work, Isha Das makes us rediscover that image of Francis that lights the way for our confused society, showing us how by sincerely living this Universal Love, Francis represents eternally that aspiration that can transform the conscience of everyone and the whole world."

    Swami Nirvanananda

St. Francis: A Hero’s Journey for Our Time

Isha Das (Craig Bullock) standing outdoors in front of green trees.

Isha Das (Craig Bullock) is the Spiritual Director of The Assisi Institute in Rochester, NY, where he guides students on their journey of spiritual transformation through the integration of mystical Christianity and Kriya Yoga practices.

With advanced degrees from the University of Notre Dame (Religious Studies) and the University of Duquesne (Clinical Psychology), Isha Das brings a unique blend of academic depth and practical spiritual wisdom to his teaching.

As an authorized Kriya Yoga teacher trained by Roy Eugene Davis (a direct disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda) and a former pastoral administrator, Isha Das bridges Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. His spiritual name, bestowed by Swami Nirvanananda in 2016, means "servant of Christ" and reflects his dedication to revealing the universal truths that connect the teachings of Jesus Christ and Yogananda.

Through his books, speaking engagements, podcast, and teaching at the Assisi Institute, Isha Das helps students discover the transformative power of contemplative practices. His latest book, "Merchant to Mystic: The Hero’s Journey of Francis of Assisi” is available now.

To contact Isha Das about the book, events, or speaking engagements, please email info@ishadasinspires.com.

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Book cover titled "The Reading Guide: Merchant to Mystic" with subtitle "The Hero's Journey of Francis of Assisi" by Isha Das (Craig Bullock). Features a drawing of mountains with a stylized orange sun in the background.

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If the teachings here have resonated with you, Soul Force is the next step — a monthly Patreon community where Isha Das goes deeper. More raw, more personal, and more responsive to what's happening in the world right now.

Every Wednesday, a short video reflection to keep you grounded on the path. And for those who want closer companionship, a monthly live gathering with Isha Das for teaching, Q&A, and community.

This isn't a replacement for the books or the Assisi Institute. It's something different — steady support for those who want to live from the inside out, week by week.

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A book cover titled 'Merchant to Mystic' with a subtitle 'The Hero's Journey of Francis of Assisi.' The cover features a detailed pencil sketch of a landscape with trees, a river, and mountains, with a depiction of Saint Francis of Assisi holding a staff and wearing a hooded robe.

A Hero’s Journey for Our Time

How did a wealthy young man from medieval Assisi—born into privilege and devoted to pleasure—become one of the most beloved spiritual figures in history?

In Merchant to Mystic, Isha Das offers a profound and personal exploration of the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, viewing his transformation not as a saint’s story reserved for the past, but as a living map for our own spiritual evolution. Through the lens of the hero’s journey, we see how Francis walked a path marked by radical surrender, deep love, and courageous devotion.

This book illuminates the essential stages of Francis’ awakening: failure, calling, meditation, community, simplicity, and the ultimate act of surrender. It also honors the vital role of Clare of Assisi, explores Francis’ embodiment of Christ Consciousness, and reveals how he died in the same spirit with which he lived—naked, free, and full of love.

Whether you are a seeker, a leader, or simply someone longing to live with more purpose and presence, Merchant to Mystic invites you into a story that is both ancient and urgently now.

“Volumes have been written about Francis—his joy, his rebuilding of a ruined church, his kinship with nature. Why add another? Because Francis is my hero. I love him with a fierce and abiding love. He confronts my comfort, reveals my divine potential, and invites me to risk everything for love.

Merchant to Mystic is my offering to those who feel called to live more deeply, more courageously, more awake. It is a call to remember that the heroic journey is not reserved for saints—but is waiting in every human heart.” - Isha Das

Isha Das’ Books

Book cover titled 'Merchant to Mystic: The Hero's Journey of Francis of Assisi' showing a black-and-white sketch of Saint Francis of Assisi with a staff in a mountainous landscape with trees and a small waterfall, and an orange sun or moon in the background.
Book cover titled 'Extravagant Love: Reflections of a Catholic Yogi' by Craig Bullock, featuring a photograph of a man meditating outdoors with greenery in the background.
Cover of a book titled 'Open Wider the Door: The Intersection of Kriya Yoga and Mystical Christianity' by Isha Das, with a background of an open door releasing bright light, set against a stone wall with an orange border.
Book cover titled 'Living Grace' by Craig Bullock (Isha Das), featuring a forest scene with sunlight shining through trees, published by The Assisi Institute.
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