The Limping, Unceasingly Praying Brother Lawrence
How a 17th-century cook and sandalmaker still helps us practice the presence of God
A No-Name Monk of Prayer and Love
The Cloud of Unknowing teaches us the peace that comes from learning to love.
A Monk, Bloody Vikings, and a God of Mercy
Some of the best sermons in English were written during days of national insecurity.
Stretching Our Souls
Lent is a time for grave reflection and forgiveness that leads to reconciliation and Christ-centered joy.
The Singing Nun
Hildegard of Bingen said we should sing because we are weak and God is strong.
A Divine Love Story
For Catherine of Siena, personal growth and public service start with passionate love for God.
Curing Lethargy … or Whatever
Putting to death the noonday demon. A review of Kathleen Norris’s Acedia & Me.
Dulling the Body, Buffing the Soul
Gertrude the Great suggests an inverse relationship between comfort and holiness in the meaty devotional, A Little Daily Wisdom: Christian Women Mystics.
The Blessing of Benedict
The “Father of Western Monasticism” spent his life teaching spiritual beginners about kindness, community, and prayer.