The Monastery of the Heart An Invitation to a Meaningful Life

by Chittister, Joan

• ISBN13: 9781933346571
• ISBN10: 1933346574
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-08-01
• Publisher: Bluebridge

Summary

In this original manifesto, bestselling author Joan Chittister delivers a roadmap based on the ancient Rule of Benedict that stands as a practical model upon which to build a satisfying life, despite the seemingly limitlessand at times meaninglesssupply of options in the modern world. By giving spiritual seekersindividuals, couples, families, and small groupsa new opportunity to live a better life from the very center of their world without ever having to withdraw from it, Chittister's new approach redefines Benedictine living for modern-day seekers while remaining firmly rooted in its values.

Author Biography

Joan Chittister is an internationally known author and lecturer, and the executive director of Benetvision, a resource and research center for contemporary spirituality. She is former president of the Conference of American Benedictine Prioresses and the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. Her books include The Friendship of Women, The Gift of Years, In the Heart of the Temple, and The Rule of Benedict. She lives in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Table of Contents

Introduction	p. vii
Our Search
A Gentle Invitation	p. 3
A Seeker's Path	p. 13
A Single Vision	p. 23
Our Interior Life
Prayer	p. 33
Silence	p. 41
Prayerful Reading	p. 49
Retreat and Reflection	p. 57
Our Community
Mutuality	p. 67
Equality	p. 73
Direction and Counsel	p. 81
Sufficiency and Sharing	p. 89
Nourishment	p. 95
Our Service
Good Work	p. 105
Co-Creation	p. 115
Loving Care	p. 121
Responsibility	p. 127
Hospitality	p. 135
Our Promise
A Listening Heart	p. 145
Conversion of Heart	p. 151
Stability of Heart	p. 159
Our Spiritual Growth
Humility	p. 169
Spiritual Tools	p. 187
Sacred Art	p. 195
Good Zeal	p. 201
Peace	p. 207
Epilogue	p. 215
A Reader's Version of the Rule of Saint Benedict in Inclusive Language: The Chapters	p. 221
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