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Befriending Silence: Discovering the Gifts of Cistercian Spirituality
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About Befriending Silence: Discovering The Gifts Of
Product Description Winner of the 2016 Georgia Author of the Year: 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. Review "Drawing on his personal experience and expansive knowledge, Carl McColman skillfully presents readers with an accessible introduction to the beauty of Cistercian spirituality. As the Rule of Benedict instructs, readers will be inspired to "listen carefully" to the wisdom of a tradition that continues to speak powerfully to women and men. Not only does Befriending Silence guide us in the gifts of Cistercian spirituality, but it's also a tremendous gift to all spiritual seekers!" -- Rev. Daniel P. Horan, O.F.M., Author of The Franciscan Heart of Thomas Merton "Carl McColman gives us a gentle, conversational, and humbly persuasive presentation of the spiritual benefits (and joys) of vowed and disciplined association with monastic life and practice for Christian lay folk. Himself a lay Cistercian, McColman speaks with quiet assurance about our human need to be ever more mindful of, and intentional about, our "God-hunger" and the holy yearning from which it comes. In doing so, he has added a practical as well as an informing volume to the literature of faith." -- Phyllis Tickle, Founding Editor of the Religion Department of Publishers Weekly " Befriending Silence is a great gift to all who hunger for meaning, mystery, peace, hope, and God. It takes wisdom from an important contemplative tradition and offers it to all. It is beautifully and humbly written; a joy on many levels." -- Brian D. McLaren, Speaker and author of We Make the Road by Walking " Befriending Silence is useful and stimulating to anyone who wishes to profit from the substantial wisdom of the Cistercian tradition." -- Michael Casey, O.C.S.O., Cistercian monk and author of Seventy Four Tools for Good Living "It's a pleasure to recommend Carl McColman's new book on Cistercian spirituality, Befriending Silence. It manifests in a wonderful way the Cistercian charism which today is shared by Lay Cistercians and also guides mature seekers." -- Brother Patrick Hart, O.C.S.O., Former Secretary to Thomas Merton and Cistercian Monk 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.
