Christianity Books

Book SynopsisOffers an essay on the nature of humility that revisions this fundamental Christian virtue away from the misunderstandings of both the scholastic tradition and its modern counterparts to locate humility in the ancient sources of the monastic tradition.

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Book SynopsisInitiation into the Monastic TraditionTrade ReviewWhile written prior to Vatican II with an emphasis on external observances, Merton addresses his novices in a refreshingly direct way. His comments on chastity and poverty are still valuable for today and helpful for any newcomer to the life discerning lifetime commitments.Br. Placid Morris, Vocation Director, Abbey of New Clairvaux, Vina, CAThe Life of the Vows is an excellent, detailed presentation of the perennial challenges of the Benedictine vows for anyone who wants to understand them better in order to live them well. A truly helpful study for one in initial formation or as a refresher course for veteran monastics.Br. M. Anthony Weber, OCSO, Vocation Director, Abbey of the GeneseeTable of ContentsTable of Contents Preface vii Introduction xiii An Introduction to the Life of the Vows 1 Appendix A: Textual notes 491 Appendix B: Table of Correspondences 544 Appendix C: For Further Reading 549 Index 551

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Book SynopsisPastoral Care of NovicesTrade ReviewWe finally have a comprehensive study of how the formative process works, something sorely needed in modern religious life. This book is like honey from the rock for anyone interested in how the human and divine work together to form a spiritual person. Michael reminds us that there is nothing secret or esoteric about formation though many of us have been bewildered by its complexity. We have come to expect clarity and richness from a Michael Casey book, and this one will not disappoint us.Abbot Brendan Freeman, New Melleray Abbey, Peosta, IowaAt last, a much-needed handbook for formation in monastic communities. There is no one better placed for the task. Michael Casey brings years of experience and a practical wisdom. He combines a deep knowledge and love of the monastic tradition with a down-to-earth understanding of twenty-first century challenges. This book is to be recommended not just to formators, but as spur to all our monastic communities to improve the quality of the pastoral care we give to the newcomer.Dom Brendan Thomas Director, Monastic Formators� Program, Rome Novice Master, Belmont Abbey, England

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Book SynopsisThe Tibhirine Journal of a Martyr Monk (1993-1996)

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Trade Review"I bowed my head surveying Merton's erudition, captured here in his careful reading of Saint Bernard, aligned with skills that deployed his scholarship as a spur to his students' contemplation. The energy he expended on preparing classes, while maintaining daily life as monk and writer, is extraordinary. No less impressive is the wildly capacious skill-set exhibited by Patrick O'Connell as he introduces and annotates Merton's `notes.' His expert summoning of the entire Merton corpus to bear on whatever Merton text he annotates astounds me. O'Connell wins first honors as the most agile transmitter of Merton's legacy. My admiring his accomplishment here and elsewhere defies adequate expression."Jonathan Montaldo Co-editor of We Are Already One: Thomas Merton's Message of Hope"Anticipating by a number of years the Second Vatican Council's call for religious orders to return to the wisdom of their founders, Merton's in-depth teaching notes, skillfully annotated by Patrick F. O'Connell, show us Merton's intimate knowledge of the works of St. Bernard, St. Aelred, and others, along with his giftedness as a teacher and an interpreter of this rich tradition."Paul M. Pearson, Director, Thomas Merton Center"This book allows the reader to follow Merton as he unpacks the wisdom of the Cistercian heritage. And even though it does require some effort the reward is more than worth the work."Cistercian Studies QuarterlyTable of ContentsTable of Contents Preface vii Introduction xi The Cistercian Fathers and Their Monastic Theology 1 Appendices I-VII 307 Appendix A: Textual notes 397 Appendix B: Table of Correspondences 448 Index 459

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Trade Review“Patrick O’Connell’s meticulous editing of these conferences is a great gift. They reveal to us Cistercian origins and developments but even more, we hear them in Merton’s voice.”The Merton Journal"This volume, along with the other eight in the series, certainly belongs in any monastic library. Merton aficionados will most definitely want to read, study and enjoy the book along with the others in the series.”American Benedictine Review“General readers and Merton scholars owe Professor O’Connell an immense debt of gratitude for his always exacting and judicious editing of Merton conferences. O’Connell has almost single-handedly made available this Merton material, his more ‘scholarly’ talks and lectures that would otherwise be inaccessible to most of us.”Cistercian Studies QuarterlyTable of ContentsCONTENTS Preface vii Introduction xi 1. Cistercian History 1 2. The Cistercian Order from the Death of Saint Bernard to the Reform of Benedict XII (1153–1335) 139 Appendix A: Textual Notes 253 Appendix B: Table of Correspondences 259 Appendix C: For Further Reading 261 Index 263 Corrigenda for Volume 8 309

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Book SynopsisOn the Mystery of MusicTrade Review“A breathtaking surge of inspired (and learned) exploration, triggered by the sound of a violin playing Mozart during an evening walk in wartime - pithy, challenging, and quite fascinating, carrying us, through music, towards ‘not something, but Someone.’” Jennifer Smith. Professor at the Royal College of Music, LondonA short but rich and complex book. . . . [W]e are listening to someone who is at once a professional musician by training and a Benedictine nun. . . . A significant book, and I warmly recommend it. Christopher Francis, Latin Liturgy"A remarkable . . . deeply Christian meditation on the liberating power of music. Labat's essay engages profoundly but also humbly with the transformative power of music that, assisted by grace, opens us to the call of beauty. Indeed, Labat's essay presents a discerning account of the experience of beauty especially as achieved through listening to and performing music and a theologically well-grounded account of the Christian significance of beauty in the contemplative life." Michael C. Jordan, Editor, Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture"This book will be of interest to serious students of the theology of music and of the role of liturgical music. We should be grateful that it is finally available in English."Anglican Theological Review

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Trade Review“A wonderful book. The introduction on its own ought to be required reading in all theological schools and for those interested in literature generally. This collection of The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Vol. 1) is an edition that is destined to become a classic standard. To situate his material, Tim Vivian offers a generous and reflective introduction to the desert tradition that is both scintillating in its intellectual brilliance and moving in its spiritual profundity. The scholarly translations are accompanied at every step by commentary and insight that demonstrate Vivian’s fluent mastery and his status as one of the world’s preeminent leaders in the field. It is a book that scholar and student alike will treasure.”V. Revd. Prof. John A. McGuckin, Faculty of Theology, Oxford University“The flow and precision of Tim Vivian’s translation allows for the personalities, messages, and worldview of the Sayings to resonate poignantly today. Moreover, his masterful notes reveal the complex linguistic and spiritual layers of these texts, as well as the degree to which scriptural language and imagery permeated monastic thought. Whether read for academic or spiritual purposes, one will encounter fresh insights and the distilled results of decades of research and reflection on every page of this remarkable volume.”Maged S. A. Mikhail, Professor of History, California State University, Fullerton“To understand the parabolic and paradigmatic nature of the apophthegmata (wise sayings) of the desert ammas and abbas, it is best to have a guide as gifted in the ancient languages of the sayings as Vivian, but also to enter into these stories with the contemplative framework of lectio divina, as Vivian recommends in his introduction. In the process, the hidden depths of these elders open up layers in one’s own search for the Holy One and the blessings and pitfalls of the spiritual life.”Mary Forman, OSB, Prioress, Monastery of St. Gertrude, Idaho"A consummate scholar, deft translator, and skilled wordsmith, Tim Vivian links ancient insights to contemporary spirituality and the work for justice. In this collection of sayings and stories, he offers a wealth of detail to feed the mind of any scholar and an abundance of wisdom to fill the soul of every seeker."The Rev. Gary Commins, DD“Bringing a depth of experience as a translator of early monastic texts, Tim Vivian offers not only a new, vivid translation of the Apopthegmata Patrum, but also a rare window into the process, and challenge, of translation itself. With an introduction that not only orients the reader to this complex literature but also draws our attention to its contemporary spiritual significance, and a set of tools to decode the language of the desert fathers and mothers, this two-volume work offers rich resources for lovers of the desert monastic tradition and for those encountering for the first time.”Revd. Dr. Jane Foulcher, Associate Head of School and Senior Lecturer in Theology, School of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Australia“Professor Tim Vivian has dedicated much of his academic career to bringing out the jewels of Coptic Monasticism that provided the inspirational and functional foundation for monasticism worldwide. His latest work brings the writings of the Mothers and Fathers in a model that serves both the benefit of their teachings as well as collectively the personality of those that said them. Bringing this systematic grouping from its original Greek to the English-speaking world is not only a blessing but a guide for those that seek holiness in their lives whether in the world or in seclusion away from it. The additional distinctive reflections of the author add that much value for the work. We pray that the complete collection will soon be in the hands of so many of us that waited for it for untold years.”Hany N. Takla, President. St. Shenouda the Archimandrite Coptic Society“The desert fathers and mothers are still popular today, fifteen or sixteen centuries after their deeds and words were recorded. People are inspired by these pithy sayings, and perhaps at times amused by them. But in either case, the context in which they lived and worked and prayed is vague and general, usually limited to a brief introduction to the sayings themselves. Tim Vivian’s book supplies this context and more. His introductions to each of the monks and nuns give what historical information is available, and he allows us to appreciate their individuality. He takes the time for personal reflection on the sayings of each one as a whole, rather than as separate quotes, and relates these ancient sayings to our world, brings them into our time, with wise lessons to teach us. In his notes, he gives more background, scriptural echoes and sources, and his exploration of the Greek behind the translation illuminates aspects of the sayings which would otherwise be lost in translation. This is a book which general readers will thoroughly enjoy, and scholars will appreciate. I look forward to the next volume in this series.”Fr. Lawrence Morey, OCSO"We should be grateful for this beautiful new translation of real treasures of the spiritual life that still speak to, yes convict, us."Cistercian Studies Quarterly“A wonderful book. The introduction on its own ought to be required reading in all theological schools and for those interested in literature generally. This collection of The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Vol. 1) is an edition that is destined to become a classic standard. To situate his material, Tim Vivian offers a generous and reflective introduction to the desert tradition that is both scintillating in its intellectual brilliance and moving in its spiritual profundity. The scholarly translations are accompanied at every step by commentary and insight that demonstrate Vivian’s fluent mastery and his status as one of the world’s preeminent leaders in the field. It is a book that scholar and student alike will treasure.”V. Revd. Prof. John A. McGuckin, Faculty of Theology, Oxford University“The flow and precision of Tim Vivian’s translation allows for the personalities, messages, and worldview of the Sayings to resonate poignantly today. Moreover, his masterful notes reveal the complex linguistic and spiritual layers of these texts, as well as the degree to which scriptural language and imagery permeated monastic thought. Whether read for academic or spiritual purposes, one will encounter fresh insights and the distilled results of decades of research and reflection on every page of this remarkable volume.”Maged S. A. Mikhail, Professor of History, California State University, Fullerton“To understand the parabolic and paradigmatic nature of the apophthegmata (wise sayings) of the desert ammas and abbas, it is best to have a guide as gifted in the ancient languages of the sayings as Vivian, but also to enter into these stories with the contemplative framework of lectio divina, as Vivian recommends in his introduction. In the process, the hidden depths of these elders open up layers in one’s own search for the Holy One and the blessings and pitfalls of the spiritual life.”Mary Forman, OSB, Prioress, Monastery of St. Gertrude, Idaho"A consummate scholar, deft translator, and skilled wordsmith, Tim Vivian links ancient insights to contemporary spirituality and the work for justice. In this collection of sayings and stories, he offers a wealth of detail to feed the mind of any scholar and an abundance of wisdom to fill the soul of every seeker."The Rev. Gary Commins, DD“Bringing a depth of experience as a translator of early monastic texts, Tim Vivian offers not only a new, vivid translation of the Apopthegmata Patrum, but also a rare window into the process, and challenge, of translation itself. With an introduction that not only orients the reader to this complex literature but also draws our attention to its contemporary spiritual significance, and a set of tools to decode the language of the desert fathers and mothers, this two-volume work offers rich resources for lovers of the desert monastic tradition and for those encountering for the first time.”Revd. Dr. Jane Foulcher, Associate Head of School and Senior Lecturer in Theology, School of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Australia“Professor Tim Vivian has dedicated much of his academic career to bringing out the jewels of Coptic Monasticism that provided the inspirational and functional foundation for monasticism worldwide. His latest work brings the writings of the Mothers and Fathers in a model that serves both the benefit of their teachings as well as collectively the personality of those that said them. Bringing this systematic grouping from its original Greek to the English-speaking world is not only a blessing but a guide for those that seek holiness in their lives whether in the world or in seclusion away from it. The additional distinctive reflections of the author add that much value for the work. We pray that the complete collection will soon be in the hands of so many of us that waited for it for untold years.”Hany N. Takla, President. St. Shenouda the Archimandrite Coptic Society“The desert fathers and mothers are still popular today, fifteen or sixteen centuries after their deeds and words were recorded. People are inspired by these pithy sayings, and perhaps at times amused by them. But in either case, the context in which they lived and worked and prayed is vague and general, usually limited to a brief introduction to the sayings themselves. Tim Vivian’s book supplies this context and more. His introductions to each of the monks and nuns give what historical information is available, and he allows us to appreciate their individuality. He takes the time for personal reflection on the sayings of each one as a whole, rather than as separate quotes, and relates these ancient sayings to our world, brings them into our time, with wise lessons to teach us. In his notes, he gives more background, scriptural echoes and sources, and his exploration of the Greek behind the translation illuminates aspects of the sayings which would otherwise be lost in translation. This is a book which general readers will thoroughly enjoy, and scholars will appreciate. I look forward to the next volume in this series.”Fr. Lawrence Morey, OCSO"When the publication of this translation is complete it will certainly be the most comprehensive and thorough resource for encountering and appreciating this fundamental compendium of early monastic teaching."Catholic Books Review“What Vivian does here is invite the reader to take up and read the sayings. He also shows the ongoing relevance of monastic desert spirituality by pairing the teachings of the apophthegmata nicely with the contemporary spiritual teachings of Gregory Boyle (of Homeboy Industries) and the always-relevant Thomas Merton. It is clear that Vivian has not only translated the sayings but internalized their spiritual message, and he is eager to see the same transformation occur in his readers.”Greg Peters, Biola University, American Benedictine Review"This volume explores a little known source of Christian spirituality. It offers an excellent excavation of the desert mystics and those regarded as early Christian parents of monastic type spirituality."Catholic Media Association"The Introduction is a masterpiece. Church historians will appreciate the new translation, which gives an authentic flavor to the sayings and stories that are fundamentally part of the oral tradition.The Downside Review"If one wants to really dig into these stories, and make sense of them in their context—interwoven with scripture, theology, and history—Vivian’s work is absolutely essential."Englewood Review of BooksTable of ContentsContents Preface by Kathleen Norris xiii Foreword by Terrence G. Kardong, OS B xv Abbreviations xix Translator’s Reflection xxv Introduction 1 I. Prologue with Stories 1 II. The Sayings of the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Apophthegmata Patrum) 12 III. An Introduction to Some Early Monastic Themes in the Apophthegmata Patrum 19 IV. Ego & Self: the Awe-filled Rowing towards the True Self 46 V. Practices in Transformation 61The Sayings and Stories of the Desert Fathers and Mothers Prologue for the Book: About the Ascetic Practices of the Blessed Fathers 89 Chapter 1: A / Álpha / A 93 Concerning Abba Antony 93 Concerning Abba Arsenius 119 Concerning Abba Agathon 147 Concerning Abba Ammonas 161 Concerning Abba Achilla (Achilles) 168 Concerning Abba Ammoë / Ammoës 172 Concerning Abba Ammoun of Nitria 174 Concerning Abba Anoub 176 Concerning Abba Abraham 178 Concerning Abba Are 180 Concerning Abba Alonius 181 Concerning Abba Apphu 182 Concerning Abba Apollo 183 Concerning Abba Andrew 186 Concerning Abba Aïṓ 186 Concerning Abba Ammonatha 187 Chapter 2: B / Bȇta / B 189 Concerning Basil the Great 189 Concerning Abba Bessarion 190 Concerning Abba Benjamin 197 Concerning Abba Biare 198 Chapter 3: G / Gámma / Γ 199 Concerning Gregory the Theologian 199 Concerning Abba Gelasius 200 Concerning Abba Gerontius 210 Chapter 4: D / Délta / Δ 213 Concerning Abba Daniel 213 Concerning Abba Dioscorus 221 Concerning Abba Doulas 223 Chapter 5: E / Épsilon / E 225 Concerning Saint Epiphanius, Bishop of Cyprus 225 Concerning Saint Ephraim 231 Eucharistus, Who Lived in the World 233 Eulogius 235 Concerning Abba Euprepius 238 Concerning Abba Helladius 240 Concerning Abba Evagrius 241 Concerning Abba Eudaemon 246 Chapter 6: Z / Zȇta / Z 247 Concerning Abba Zenon 247 Concerning Abba Zachariah 251 Chapter 7: H / Ȇta / Ē 253 Concerning Abba Isaiah 253 Concerning Abba Elijah 256 Concerning Abba Heraclius 258 Glossary 261 Dramatis Personae 319 Selected Bibliography 323 Scripture Index 331 General Index 343

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Book SynopsisOn Loving God

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Book SynopsisThe Steps of Humility and Pride

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Book SynopsisA New Translation and Introduction

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Book SynopsisHomilies in Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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Trade Review"Thomas Davis makes an invaluable contribution in his fresh translation of the Meditations and his insightful commentary on William’s account of the contemplative ascent into God, situating the abbot of Saint-Thierry’s spiritual itinerary in his broader theological vision. That ascent is motivated by ardent love and longing to see God’s face, yet paradoxically necessitates a descent into the truth of a person’s deepest self where one comes face to face with one’s utter brokenness and the need to die to self. There one also discovers the truth of one’s unimaginable beloved-ness in the eternal Word. Ascending then through the Incarnation, one’s will is united with God’s love—the Holy Spirit—in the unitas spiritus where one’s life is transformed and one’s spirit is enfolded the ineffable embrace of the Divine Persons of the Trinity."Glenn E. Myers, PhD, Professor of Church History and Theological Studies, Crown College "Father Thomas Davis takes his readers on an extraordinary journey through the depths and heights of William of Saint–Thierry’s spirituality. The revised translation and commentary illuminate the complexity of early Cistercian thought through the lens of William’s poetic imagery. Offering a guided tour through the metaphorical landscape of William’s meditations, Father Davis provides intellectually rich insight, as well as a personal appreciation of Cistercian spiritual practice. This book is a source both for future Cistercian scholarship and for anyone who is drawn to the experiential, authentic nature of monastic prayer.“Dr. des. theol. ​Delphine Conzelmann, University of Basel, Switzerland “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” So wrote St. Augustine at the beginning of his Confessions, one of the most remarkable prayer-texts in the Christian tradition. Some 700 years later, a closely related insight drove William of St. Thierry to pen the meditative prayers of this book. Blessed with an intimate knowledge of the Bible and the medieval interpretive tradition, a poetic sense of imagery, a refined Christian metaphysics, and an ardent personal faith, William delivered a remarkable text to guide thoughts to God. This new volume gives us a precious new portal into one of Christian history’s outstanding minds."Fr. Joseph Van House, O Cist, Our Lady of Dallas Abbey, University of Dallas "This volume is highly recommended for all who want to deepen their appreciation of medieval monastic spirituality."Catholic Books ReviewTable of ContentsContents Acknowledgments xi Abbreviations xiii Foreword, by David N. Bell xvii The Meditations 1 Preface 3 The Meditations 5 The Beginning of William’s Contemplative Ascent into Intimacy with the Triune Divinity as Presented in His Meditations: A Monastic Commentary 89 Two Protagonists: Meditation 1.1–6 91 Foreknowledge and Predestination: Meditation 1.2–6 94 Divine Foreknowledge as Eternal Wisdom: Meditation 1.7–10 96 Bonding between Eternity and Time: Meditation 1.8 97 Ascending vs Circling: Meditation 1.9 99 Divine Predestination/Intimate Relationship: Meditation 1.11 100 Pride: Meditation 1.12–13 102 Go to Him and be Enlightened: Meditation 2.1–3 104 A Remarkable Scriptural Image and Metaphor: Meditation 2.2–8 107 Divine and Human Darkness: Meditation 2.5–8 108 Imagination in Respect to a Vision of God that Enlightens: Meditation 2.9–12 110 Two Categories of Understanding: Meditation 2.13–15 113 Enlightened Understanding Coming from Above: Meditation 2.14 113 Face and Countenance: Meditation 3.1–5 116 Meaning of the Face 117 Meaning of the Countenance 117 A Succinct Unfolding of the Meditations 118 The Paradigm of Your Countenance 118 Your Love: Meditation 3.6–7 120 Divine Revelation: Meditation 3.7–8 123 Understanding from Reason: Meditation 3.9–11 125 Understanding God: Meditation 3.12–13 127 Understanding the Trinity: Meditation 3.14 128 Embracing the Trinity: Meditation 3.15–16 130 Personal Change via the Lord’s Prayer: Meditation 4.1–5 132 Nine Factors Bringing Personal Change: Meditation 4.6–19 133 1. Opening Personal Inner Depths: Meditation 4.6 134 2. Good Conscience: Meditation 4.10 135 3. Reason in Its Proper Responsibility: Meditation 4.11 136 4. Knowledge of One’s Personal God as the Fruit of Solitude: Meditation 4.12 136 5. A Desire to Taste, See, and Delight in This Personal God: Meditation 4.13–14 137 6. Pursuing the Place Where God Is: Meditation 4.15 138 7. Removing All Types of Idols Formerly Used to Comprehend God: Meditation 4.16 139 8. Becoming Intelligent and Devoutly Knowledgeable: Meditation 4.17 140 9. Authentic Listening to God: Meditation 4.18–19 141 The Prayer of Jesus: Meditation 5.1–3 143 Prayer as Being Crucified, Concrucifixus, with the Lord Jesus: Meditation 5.4 144 Concrucifixus and Its Consequences: Meditation 5.5 145 A Treacherous Problem: Meditation 5.6 147 Christ’s Prayer on the Cross: Meditation 5.7–10 147 Love and Truth: Meditation 5.10–12 149 William’s Bonding to the Human and Divine Natures of Christ: Meditation 5.14–15 151 Mutual Anointing and the Amplexus: Meditation 5.15–19 152 Heaven’s Open Door: Meditation 6.1 155 Earthly Heaviness and Human Pride: Meditation 6.2–5 155 Jesus, Incarnate Merciful Love, Is the Open Door into Heaven: Meditation 6.6–7 157 The Proper Way to Think Regarding Heaven and Earth: Meditation 6.8–9 158 Further Thoughts on Heaven: Meditation 6.10–14 159 Heaven Is Likeness to the Creating God: Meditation 6.15 161 The Comprehensiveness of the Incarnation: Meditation 6.16–19 161 The Obedience of Charity and the Charity of Obedience: Meditation 6.18 162 The Pierced Heart of Jesus: Meditation 6.20–22 164 A Yearning to Rejoice with the Saints: Meditation 6.23–27 164 Boldness in Seeking God’s Face: Meditation 7.1 167 Two Aspects of Humility: Meditation 7.2–4 167 Signs of the Divine Face: Meditation 7.6–8 169 To Know by Not Knowing: Meditation 7.9–11 170 The Implication of Being Illumined: Meditation 7.11 173 Good Will, Good Zeal: Meditation 8.1–2 175 The Kiss of Truth and Mercy: Meditation 8.3 176 The Passion of Christ as a Contemplative Spousal Kiss: Meditation 8.4–5 177 The Sacred Heart as Hiding Place: Meditation 8.6 179 Ruminating on the Passion: Meditation 8.7 180 Delightful Love: Meditation 8.8–9 184 The Effects of Christ’s Face upon a Human Face: Meditation 8.10 184 Torment of Hell: Meditation 8.11–14 185 William Descends into His Inner Self: Meditation 9.1–2 187 Rowdy Thoughts Hinder Inner Peace: Meditation 9.3–7 187 Total Openness in God’s Presence: Meditation 9.8–9 189 Experiences of Alternations: Meditation 9.10–11 190 Truth, Accurate Self-knowledge, Comes from God’s Presence: Meditation 9.12–13 191 The Fullness of Love Depends on the Fullness of Faith: Meditation 9.14–17 191 An Intuitive Vision of God: Meditation 10.1–2 193 The Bonding Role of This Wisdom: Meditation 10.3 195 Prayer with Images: Meditation 10.4–10 196 The Incarnate Christ as the Open Door to Eternal Life: Meditation 10.9–12 200 The Theme of Ascent: Meditation 11.1–3 203 The Scriptural Image of Bartimeus of Jericho (Mark 10:46): Meditation 11.4–11 204 Word of God, the Divine Protagonist: Meditation 11.12 206 His Total Destiny, the Discovery of God’s Truth, Is in God’s Hands: Meditation 11.13–14 207 Scrutinizing Intention, Thoughts, Soul, and Spirit: Meditation 11.15–33 208 Intention: Meditation 11.15–20 208 Joints: Meditation 11.21–24 210 Marrow: Meditation 11.25–30 211 A Dialogue between William’s Spirit and His Soul: Meditation 11.31–33 214 Your Love: Meditation 12.1 217 William Addresses His Past Life: Meditation 12.2–8 218 Your Love as an Advocate: Meditation 12.9–10 219 Your Love, an Experience of Love: Meditation 12.11 221 The Life of the Trinity Working in William: Meditation 12.12–13 222 Your Love Expands Conscience: Meditation 12.14–15 223 Way of Ascent: A Will—Great, Enlightened, Ardent: Meditation 12.16–20 224 Great Will 225 Enlightened and Ardent Will: Meditation 12.20–21 227 Your Love Imparts Participation with the Saints: Meditation 12.22 228 Your Love Reshaping Persons: Meditation 12.23–24 228 Your Love Forms Unpretentious Persons: Meditation 12.25–27 229 Eucrasis and the Saints 230 To Love Much: Meditation 12.28–30 231 Meditation Thirteen 234 Bibliography 241

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Trade Review"Reading this book is almost like reading the Dialogues of St. Gregory. There is no one Bernard cannot cure. If hagiography is your dish, read this very readable book."American Benedictine Review, Brian Wangler, OSB, Assumption Abbey, Richardson, ND"Anyone interested in the career of Bernard of Clairvaux will be well-served by this volume. A treasure awaiting the diligent reader. All praise to Fr. Hilary and to Cistercian Publications for making it available."Tjurunga

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Book SynopsisPrayers and Meditations from the Anglo-Saxon Tradition

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Book SynopsisTraces themes and draws on other scriptural books to remind readers that every human person is endowed with an innate love for God, which in his words, 'cannot be sapped.'Trade ReviewBy translating Gregory of Narek’s Commentary on the Song of Songs, Roberta Ervine has done a wonderful service in making the riches of Armenian Christianity available to a wider audience. . . . This book is a must for anyone interested in the history of the exegesis of the Song of Songs and is recommended for students of Armenian Christianity or monastic spirituality.The American Benedictine ReviewEncouraging Christians that the love of God is immortal, The Blessing of Blessings is recommended for Christian scholars and non-specialist general readers alike.Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisThe Complete Works of Diadochus of Photike

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Book SynopsisA Theology of HopeTrade ReviewI highly recommend anyone interested in ecumenism or Christian and Islamic studies to read this book. Salenson weaves together not only a very good biographical story about Christian and his fellow monks but at the same time discusses how the Christian practices of prayer, lectio divina, eucharistic, sacraments, fasting, feasting, and almsgiving can be deepened by an openness to what Abbot de Chergé called 'radical hospitality' or 'friendship.' Today, as parts of the Church become more closed minded, more sectarian, more inward-looking, we need more words of wisdom from people such as Abbot de Chergé, who provide us with hope in this world which seems to lack hope.Fr. William C. Mills, Author of Encountering Jesus in the Gospels

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Book SynopsisA Monastic Reading of Dionysius Areopagita

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Moral Reflections on the Book of Job Volume 5 | BookCurl

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Trade Review"If you could only nourish your life of prayer with the Bible and one other book, a strong case could be made that Ludolph's Life of Christ is that book.Julian Meetings Magazine"With this, in four volumes, we have a comprehensive commentary on the entire Gospel from the beginning to the end of time. The translation is superb. Dr. Walsh is to be congratulated on this magnum opus."The Downside Review"With the completion of this monumental translation, both its historical significance and taking into account the development of both doctrine and discipline since its first appearance, its ongoing value can be readily recognized and appreciated."Catholic Books Review"A monumental undertaking, which offers evidence of just how rich and varied is the Christian tradition, and what educated religious, clergy and laity were reading, thinking, and praying in the later Middle Ages.American Benedictine ReviewTable of ContentsContentsList of Abbreviations for Works Cited ix CHAPTER 58Introduction to Meditation on the Passion 1 CHAPTER 59The Passion, First Compline (7 P.M.)(Matt 26:36-56; Mark 14:32-52; Luke 22:39-53; John 18:1-14) 23 CHAPTER 60The Passion, Matins (Midnight)(Matt 26:57-75; Mark 14:53-72; Luke 22:54-71; John 18:15-27) 74 CHAPTER 61The Passion, Hour of Prime (7 A.M.)(Matt 27:1-10; Mark 15:1; Luke 22:66–23:12; John 18:28-32) 108 CHAPTER 62The Passion, Hour of Terce (10 A.M.)(Matt 27:14-32; Mark 15:6-20; Luke 23:13-31; John 18:38–19:16) 138 CHAPTER 63The Passion, Hour of Sext (Noon)(Matt 27:33-49; Mark 15:21-36; Luke 23:32-43; John 19:17-30) 200 CHAPTER 64The Passion, Hour of None (3 P.M.)(Matt 27:50-56; Mark 15:37-41; Luke 23:44-49; John 19:31-37) 277 CHAPTER 65The Passion, Second Vespers (5 P.M.)(Matt 27:57-58; Mark 15:42-45; Luke 23:50-52; John 19:38-40) 306 CHAPTER 66The Passion, Hour of Second Compline (7 P.M.)(Matt 27:59-66; Mark 15:46-47; Luke 23:53-56; John 19:41-42) 321 CHAPTER 67Epilogue to the Lord’s Passion, and Praise of the Cross 344 CHAPTER 68Holy Saturday of the Lord’s Passion 363 CHAPTER 69Our Lord’s Resurrection (Matt 28:2) 376 CHAPTER 70The Myrrh-bearing Women; Jesus Appears to His Mother 390 CHAPTER 71The Disciples at the Empty Tomb(Matt 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-10) 401 CHAPTER 72How the Lord Appeared to Mary Magdalen (John 20:11-18) 422 CHAPTER 73How the Lord Appeared to the Three Marys(Matt 28:9-10; John 20:18) 438 CHAPTER 74The Soldiers Are Bribed to Lie (Matt 28:11-15) 445 CHAPTER 75How the Lord Appeared to Peter, Joseph of Arimathea,James the Less, and the Holy Ancestors in Limbo 452 CHAPTER 76How the Lord Appeared to Two Disciples on the Road to Emmaus(Luke 24:13-35) 459 CHAPTER 77How the Lord Appeared in the Upper Room When Thomas WasAbsent (Luke 24:36-47; John 20:19-25) 471 CHAPTER 78How the Lord Appeared to the Disciples When Thomas WasPresent (John 20:26-29) 491 CHAPTER 79How the Lord Appeared to Seven Disciples by the Sea of Tiberias(John 21:1-25) 501 CHAPTER 80How the Lord Appeared to the Eleven Disciples in Galilee, andAlso to Five Hundred Disciples (Matt 28:16-20; 1 Cor 15:6) 525 CHAPTER 81Epilogue on the Appearances of the Lord afterHis Resurrection 536 CHAPTER 82The Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ(Mark 16:14-20; Luke 24:48-53; Acts 1:4-14) 546 CHAPTER 83The Creed and the Four Gospels 580 CHAPTER 84Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) 600 CHAPTER 85The Praise of God 624 CHAPTER 86Mary’s Assumption; Praise of the Blessed Virgin 636 CHAPTER 87The Last Judgment 662 CHAPTER 88The Punishment of Hell and the Glory of Heaven 683 CHAPTER 89The Conclusion and Sealing of This Book 700Comprehensive Table of Gospel Passages toParts One and Two 713Comprehensive Index to Parts One and Two 717

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Book SynopsisAn Anthology of Syriac Christian Mysticism

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Book Synopsis How did the monks of the Egyptian desert fight against the demons that attacked them with tempting thoughts? How could Christians resist the thoughts of gluttony, fornication, or pride that assailed them and obstructed their contemplation of God? According to Evagrius of Pontus (345 ''399), one of the greatest spiritual directors of ancient monasticism, the monk should talk back to demons with relevant passages from the Bible. His book Talking Back (Antirrhêtikos)lists over 500 thoughts or circumstances in which the demon-fighting monk might find himself, along with the biblical passages with which the monk should respond. It became one of the most popular books among the ascetics of Late Antiquity and the Byzantine East, but until now the entire text had not been translated into English. From Talking Back we gain a better understanding of Evagrius''s eight primary demons: gluttony, fornication, love of money, sadness, anger, listlessness, vainglory, and pride. We can explore a central aspect of early monastic spirituality, and we get a glimpse of the temptations and anxieties that the first desert monks faced. David Brakke is professor and chair of the Department of Religious Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences of Indiana University. He studied ancient Christianity at Harvard Divinity School and Yale University. Brakke is the author of Athanasius and Asceticism and Demons and the Making of the Monk: Spiritual Combat in Early Christianity, and he edits the Journal of Early Christian Studies. Trade Review"This work makes available to the English readership a work that not only offers a fuller appreciation of the spirituality of Evagrius and his psychology but provides as well a more concrete understanding of the psychology and struggles of the early monks in the Egyptian desert."Cistercian Studies Quarterly"This is a very practical, dealing-with-the-issues kind of lectio divina. The monks of Evagrius' time considered this a read spiritual treasure. The same treasure is now available to us in English."American Benedictine Review"With much wisdom and thought, Evagrius of Pontus is a must read for anyone who wants to best understand ancient Christianity and learn about its roots."Midwest Book Review

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The Conferences of John Cassian III 9780879073381 | BookCurl

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Book SynopsisExposition on the Song of Songs

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Book Synopsis

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Moral Reflections on the Book of Job Volume 2 | BookCurl

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Moral Reflections on the Book of Job Volume 3 | BookCurl

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisSermons for Lent and the Easter Season

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Book SynopsisSpiritual Meadow by John Moschos

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Book SynopsisSermons on the Song of Songs Volume 1Trade ReviewNo serious library of spirituality should be lacking the four-part classic gem. Bernard of Clairvaux was a brilliant preacher and polished writer, but above all a profound mystic who sought to bring all his hearers to the experience of God. The Sermons on the Song of Songs are among the most famous and beautiful examples of medieval scriptural exegesis.Review for Religious

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Book SynopsisSermons on the Song of Songs Volume 2Trade ReviewNo serious library of spirituality should be lacking the four-part classic gem. Bernard of Clairvaux was a brilliant preacher and polished writer, but above all a profound mystic who sought to bring all his hearers to the experience of God. The Sermons on the Song of Songs are among the most famous and beautiful examples of medieval scriptural exegesis.Review for Religious

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Book SynopsisHomilies on the Gospel Book One - Advent to Lent

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Book SynopsisGregory the Great: Forty Gospel Homilies

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Book SynopsisSaint Isaac of Syria was an ascetic, a mountain solitary, but his writings are universal in scope. They are addressed not just to the desert but to the city, not just to monastics but to all the baptized. With sharp vividness he speaks about themes relevant to every Christian.Trade ReviewNow at last, to my great delight, we have at our disposal a single book in English, offering us a balanced and comprehensive overview of Isaac's life, background and teaching. Wisely, Fr Hilarion Alfeyev has allowed Isaac to speak for himself. The book is full of well chosen quotations, in which Isaac's true voice can be heard.Kallistos Ware

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Book SynopsisA new edition of a treasured contemplative classic. The author takes readers on a journey based on biblical themes and urges them to seek a personal inner hermitage in which to seek and to reach God. 'Not everyone, obviously, can and should live as a monk or hermit. But no Christian can do without an inner hermitage in which to meet his God.'

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Book SynopsisA History of the Monastic Movement in the Latin Church

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Book SynopsisThe Hidden Life of the CarthusiansTrade ReviewExhales a sweet serenity reminding us of the complex atrributes and simple rewards of silence and solitude.The New York TimesThe author has been given an unprecedented aceess to archives and books unknown to the outside world. Mr Bruce Lockhart's splendid book will hopefully bring this knowledge to a wide public. . . Halfway to Heaven is a sublime and gripping read.Catholic Herald

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Trade ReviewThese precious volumes offer an illuminating, even dazzling, insight into Carthusian ways that are little known, indeed traditionally hidden. Here are men who for all their silence need to be heard.The Tablet

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