The Monastery of the Heart: An Invitation to a Meaningful Life

I liked everything about the book--style, content, layout, design, all of it. It was just what I was looking for as I explore a Benedictine spiritually that is keenly aware of patriarchy and other forms of oppression and injustice, and is also global and universal in its attitude and reach and a beautifully written book, succinct, sometimes poetic, deeply practical and spiritual. It is also a needed and inspiring link to Benedictine spiritually lived out in "digital" community in our trying times, when personal contact is limited.

Joan Chittister's writings are always inspiring, and these are no exception. I have read about three-fourths of THE MONASTERY OF THE HEART but have not yet read the other two books I ordered. Sr. Joan's explanations on the Rule of St Benedict are clear, concise, and enlighten-ing. As in all of her writings which have been my privilege to read, there is no preaching nor attempts to convert the reader. She simply shares her considerable insight and spirituality in a down-to-earth manner.

I am discerning whether to become an Oblate of St. Benedict. This book was recommended to me by a Benedictine sister in charge of Oblate Formation at a nearby monastery. Alexa “read” the Kindle version to me while I tried to follow along (I have health issues that make reading on its own very difficult). Generally, I love reading Chittister’s work. Easy reading. Well written. I particularly loved her modern interpretation of St. Benedict’s Twelve Steps of Humility. My one criticism is the formatting of the Kindle version. Instead of normal pagination, the words are in a column down the center of the page; another reviewer referred to this format as “pseudo-poetry.” Although I’m sure this was intentional, it didn’t work for me. Having said that, I recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about Benedictine Spirituality.

A friend is getting up a group for spiritual direction and suggested we use this book to get started. As I am reading it, I am reminded of the recent stir about nuns and the discussions about what is and is not essential for the religious life. If you take away the medieval dress and walls, what is left? And what may be left is a Monastery of the Heart as described in this book. The author strips away years of accrued traditions, adaptations, and interpretations to look at the core of the rule of St. Benedict and finds it still useful. Still a good guide for forming and maintaining community. I have found a lot to think about with this book. It's what I call a sipping book. Not one you read in big gulps, but keep around and pick up and read a paragraph or page or two then think about things for awhile.

This extended prose poem reimagines what it is to live the simple, yet radical values that have endured for centuries in Benedictine communities. You don't need to be Benedictine or Catholic to appreciate the inherently human need to live a life that matters, to develop emotionally and spiritually in ways that serve a greater purpose than our own personal good. The book, introduced in 2011, launched a movement to create Monasteries of the Heart. These are small faith communities -- on site and/or online. The movement and the groups are supported by a resource-intensive web site run by Chittister and the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, Pa. (monasteriesoftheheart.org). It's an engaging, refreshing and transformative way to build and support a way of life and a life worth living.

Nice. But I don't care for pseudo poetry. Kind of light weight.

I am so pleased with this book. I intend to read this one over and over again. Each time I read it I find something new that resonates with this moment, this time I'm devoting to spiritual growth. It is written for Christian believers in all forms of worship and especially for an Oblate of St. Benedict. Sr. Joan has used an interesting format that at first was curious but as I read it began to have a rhythm - almost like the Psalms.

I love everything I've ever read by Sister Joan Chittister. This one is particularly special to me because a group of us used it as the inspiration to form our own little "monastery of the heart" during the weeks of Lent. Each chapter is filled with rich gems of insight into how one can live a devoted and dedicated life in the middle of ordinary, every-day chaos. I have actually been writing a devotional blog each week about some facet of the chapters we are covering.

Te ofrece los puntos de la regla benedictina de una forma adaptada a la vida moderna y laica fuera de un convento

This book was recommended by a Benedictine priest who spoke at a Spirituality course I am attending. It is searchingly beautiful and from the moment I opened the pages I was captivated and unable to put it down. I have recommended it to friends and they too have bought it. It is so full of inspiration - I am on the third reading.

Beautifully written. Scriptural and meditative.

I loved the book and it arrived on time in excellent condition . The book is exactly what I wanted and needed. Thanks for providing it and in a timely manner. Gratefully Margery McArdle

A lovely book for quiet reflection. Poems and thoughts set out seasonally.