Befriending Silence: Discovering the Gifts of Cistercian Spirituality

Befriending Silence: Discovering the Gifts of Cistercian Spirituality

by Carl McColman
Befriending Silence: Discovering the Gifts of Cistercian Spirituality

Befriending Silence: Discovering the Gifts of Cistercian Spirituality

by Carl McColman

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Overview

2016 Georgia Author of the Year Award Winner for Inspirational-Religious Books

Respected speaker, author, and Patheos blogger Carl McColman introduces Cistercian spirituality as "the hidden jewel of the Church," presenting a surprisingly contemporary path grounded in monastic tradition. This accessible and comprehensive guide highlights a unique focus on simplicity, living close to the earth, and contemplative prayer, all of which make Cistercian spirituality relevant today.

Steeped in chant and silence, grounded in down-to-earth work and service, and immersed in the mystical wisdom of teachers ancient (Bernard of Clairvaux) and modern (Thomas Merton), Cistercian spirituality's beautifully humble path has for centuries made monasteries places of rest, retreat, and renewal. Now, Carl McColman offers the first practical introduction to this ancient, contemplative spirituality for all people.

Hailed by reviewers of his many books as playful, and profound, McColman draws on his experience as a lay Cistercian to provide insight into the relevance of the tradition to contemporary issues and spiritual practice. He explains how silence, simplicity, stability, stewardship of the earth, contemplation, ongoing conversion, and devotion to Mary combine to offer a rich and unique path to discipleship and intimacy with God.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781594716157
Publisher: Ave Maria Press
Publication date: 11/06/2015
Pages: 192
Product dimensions: 4.24(w) x 9.51(h) x 0.52(d)

About the Author

Carl McColman is the author of The Big Book of Christian Mysticism and Answering the Contemplative Call, as well as a popular website and blog devoted to Christian and world mysticism. A Catholic in full-time ministry as a speaker and retreat leader, McColman is a professed member of the Lay Cistercians of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit.

Table of Contents

A Note about Language ix

Introduction From Bernard's Valley to Merton's Mountain 1

Chapter 1 Charism: A Gift from God (with a Greek Accent) 13

Chapter 2 Sacred Stories: Remembering Who We Truly Are 25

Chapter 3 Formation: You Are the Potter, I Am the Clay 39

Chapter 4 Humility: Down-to-Earth Spirituality 53

Chapter 5 Hospitality: Welcoming Christ, Welcoming Others 65

Chapter 6 Compassion and Community: Where Two or Three Are Gathered 77

Chapter 7 Prayer and Liturgy: The Rhythm of the Day 89

Chapter 8 Contemplation: The Star of the Sea 101

Chapter 9 Conversion of Life: A Promise for All Time 115

Chapter 10 Stability: Blooming Where We're Planted 127

Chapter 11 Perseverance: Living a (Lay) Cistercian Life 141

A Final Word 155

Acknowledgments 157

Appendix 1 Vocations to Cistercian Monastic Life 159

Appendix 2 Vocations to the Lay Cistercian Family 163

Appendix 3 Cistercian Abbeys in North America 167

Notes 174

Selected Bibliography 178

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