Description
Book SynopsisIn this follow-up to his critically acclaimed book The Shattering of Loneliness, Erik Varden provides a glimpse of the value of a monastic life and a Christian calling in our troubled modern age.
Be whole and so be happy.--St. Bernard, founder of the Cistercian order
In the aftermath of a pandemic and the midst of political upheaval, Erik Varden has observed a growing interest in the monastic life even among those who have no intention of entering a monastery. For in times of anguish and uncertainty, basic principles of monastic life have become particularly appealing.
Varden, Trappist monk and now Bishop, invites us to observe and learn from monastic life in our turbulent times. After a very personal introduction, he follows the Church year and seasons, always inspired by scriptural reading. The values he highlights include: tranquility; seeking peace; obedience; personal integrity; not continually passing judgement on others; asceticism as oppo
Trade Review
I have little doubt that this will also become a spiritual bestseller following on from his previous much acclaimed book, The Shattering of Loneliness. -- Dominic Walker * Church Times *
Varden's work is the fruit from a tree for the healing of the nations, from a monk who has his feet firmly and incarnationally on the ground. * Lutheran Theological Journal *
[Erik’s] homilies are accessible – written in clear, standard English – but rich, sometimes breathtakingly, in their content. * Catholic Herald *
These [homilies] are as bracing and enlivening for the reader as they will have been for the congregations who heard them … Varden’s combination of extensive learning, passionate engagement with the history and demandingness of Christian life, and the sharp focus of a keen mind, make his preaching something from which many will benefit. * The Tablet *
Varden’s erudition in this edifying work of Catholic monasticism should earn him comparisons to Edith Stein. * Publishers Weekly *
Table of Contents
List of Illustrations Introduction PART ONE: WHAT MAKES A MONK 1 Vows 2 Patrimony 3 The Heart's Expansion PART TWO: A MONASTIC YEAR 4 Seasons 5 Ordinary Time 6 Saints Appendix: Vision Notes on the Text Notes
