Seeking Life Hardback

The Prologue of The Rule of St Benedict is part of his catechesis for Baptism. Esther de Waal suggests that we use Benedict's words as Lectio Divina, reflecting on our own Baptism promises, perhaps in preparation for their renewal at Easter. There are four main sections; 'Baptism', ('Preparing for Easter', 'Recovering [both] Our Historical Roots' and 'Symbolic Identity', and a description of the Rites of Baptism c.390), 'The Prologue', 'Reflections' (on the Prologue - Lectio Divina) and 'Anthology ( a selection of extracts from instructions to catechumens and baptismal homilies from some Fathers of the Church). The 'Notes' at the end contain references. It is a pity that the pictures could not be in colour.

For the author, '...the Rule remains a source of continuing support and challenge.' (p. x), which is the way of St Benedict - to endlessly encourage and inspire. She admits that 'This is a very personal book...' (ibid); however, she successfully shares with the reader, the one who prays to improve, her vast understanding of Benedictine spirituality as it can be lived in the World: 'I cannot be true to my baptism unless it makes a difference to the way in which I live.' (p.67). This book will help us all in living our Baptism.