Often asked for references on spiritual reading, below is a list of recommendations with a brief description.
Reclaiming Your Story: Family History and Spiritual Growth
by Merle R. Jordan
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Do not be deceived by the small nature of this book. It is thick with thought provoking questions. It will help you sort through the tension of your family’s authority and divine authority!
Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict
by Esther de Waal
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This little gem is an excellent introduction to the Benedictine way of life. The Rule of St. Benedict is full of common threads and Esther de Waal groups each of these threads into separate chapters. Weaving together a perfect overview of the key concepts found in Benedictine Spirituality.
Living with Contradiction: An Introduction to Benedictine Spirituality
by Esther de Waal
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Another treasure by Esther de Waal, simple reflections from the Rule of St. Benedict that examine our world and the tension that we all must live in. Ancient wisdom for modern struggles. Peace is offered with a new perspective.
The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God Through Prayer, Wisdom, and Silence
by Henri J.M. Nouwen
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First published by Nouwen in 1981 this little book still rings true today. Examining three ancient elements of “silence, solitude and prayer” this book gets to the core of the post-modern struggle to alleviate spiritual hunger and thirst.
A Life-Giving Way: A Commentary on the Rule of St. Benedict
by Esther de Waal
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In this book Esther de Waal demonstrates the deep spirituality found within the text of the Rule of St. Benedict. She is able to bring ancient truths into our modern world with clarity and simplicity.
The Benedictine Handbook
by Purchase available at Amazon by clicking the link above.
Time honored companion for oblates, associates, and friends of Benedictine communities. Contains the Rule of St. Benedict, devotions written by Benedictines and explanations of the Benedictine tenets and teachings. Most often found in guest rooms in Benedictine retreat centers.
The Oblate Life : A Handbook for Spiritual Formation(Hardback) – 2008 Edition
by
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Companion to The Benedictine Handbook. Compilation of essays by modern day monastics and oblates from all over the United States. Designed to convey the wisdom, inspiration, and enlightenment of the Benedictine life. Although the numbers of men and women becoming monks and nuns are decreasing, the wisdom of their way of life is becoming essential to those living in the world.
The Living Reminder: Service and Prayer in Memory of Jesus Christ
by Henri Nouwen
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A lesser known work of Nouwen, yet an excellent collection of reflections for those in ministry and those discerning a call to lead others.
Citadel of God: A Novel about Saint Benedict
by Louis de Wohl
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Historical fiction of the life of St. Benedict. Louis de Wohl places St. Benedict in the society with Boethius, interesting concept. The story brings the life of St. Benedict into context, lending itself to a realistic perception of the miracles attributed to the saint.
Scarlet Music: A Life of Hildegard Von Bingen (Crossroad Fiction Program)
by Joan O’Hanneson
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Scholar Joan O’Hanneson crafts a beautiful image of an astounding woman who was a visionary, prophet, artist, healer, and musician. One of my favorite books – out of print, but secure one if you can. This will give you a fresh look into the life one of our greatest mystics!!! She shattered stereotypes of women, of saints, and of God.