Silence, Sobriety, Solidarity: Living with a Contemplative Heart

A guidebook on how to live the Trappist charism outside a monastic enclosure. Endorsements "Michael Downey's theological depth enriches, his poetic prose inspires, his prayer pulses through these pages. Every word, each finely chiseled cameo evokes silence, sobriety, and solidarity in everything." —Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization "This slim volume offers a balm for today's frenetic and disconnected soul. An astute cultural observer, Downey shines a revealing light on the 'magnificent distractions' that can impede the spiritual life even as his poetic sensibility draws us ever more deeply into the art of living prayerfully. We are in the safe hands of a wise and perceptive spiritual master." —Richard R. Gaillardetz, Boston College "A guidebook on how to live the Trappist charism outside a monastic enclosure. It was in many ways Charles de Foucauld's own calling. Sobriety healed his soul, silence opened him to the mystery, and solidarity led him to encounter the God who calls us his brothers and sisters. As Michael Downey points out, the three are not signposts to perfection but to increasing our desire for that in which our hearts can rest." —Little Sister Kathleen of Jesus Dr. Michael Downey has served as professor of theology and spirituality at universities and seminaries in North America and abroad. Author or editor of more than twenty books over the course of an academic career spanning more than forty years, he has remained active in working with enclosed contemplative monks and nuns. He is recipient of three honorary doctorates and was awarded the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal by Pope John Paul II. †