Hermit caves in Syria
I have read it before, I am sure of it, but it has been years. I am enjoying it again. Catherine Doherty's "Poustinia" explains the solitary contemplative way that is the tradition of the Eastern Catholic churches.
One of the marvelous aspects of this tradition of thought and practice is that it is widely open to all persons, no matter what their station in life. It is a common expression of the laity. From the busy housewife who steals some moments at her prayer corner behind a sheltering curtain, to the acetic who, donning a long shift and carrying nothing but some bread and salt with him, wanders into the forest to reside completely alone, contemplative prayer life is widely practiced.
This book has my recommendation for all my readers who are attempting to live alone with God. It is quite encouraging and soothing, in addition to its obvious educational value.
Here are its particulars:
POUSTINIA
Encountering God in Silence, Solitude and Prayer
The modern spiritual classic for those seeking the open heart and
listening soul of silent contemplation
by Catherine Doherty
Published by
Madonna House Classics
2888 Dafoe Rd, RR 2
Combermere ON KOJ 1LO
www.madonnahouse.or/publications
A lovely introductory passage:
"It seems strange to say, but what can help modern man find the answers to his own mystery and the mystery of Him in whose image he is created, is silence and solitude -- in a word, the desert. Modern man needs these things more than the hermits of old."
National House of Prayer
by Richard Long
Catherine Doherty
from Baroness
to
Poustinik
Photo taken by Thomas Merton
I am not writing much on the blog these days, but I hope you continue to contact me. I remain available for prayer requests, advice and encouragement.
God bless us all!
Silver Rose Parnell
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