Lectio Divina, or holy reading, is an essential element of Benedictine spirituality; and time for personal reading of the Bible in a prayerful, contemplative way is built into the Benedictine day. It is a spiritual discipline that goes back even further than St Benedict to the early church fathers.

This approach treats Scripture not just as a book, or even a holy book, but the place of encounter with Christ. Reading therefore becomes a conversation, an act of listening, as attentive as that between lovers. Lectio Divina encourages us to hang on to every word, to turn phrases over and over as we would a love letter. This way, Scripture slowly transforms us.

This warm, wise and practical introduction is from an experienced guide who has trained many Benedictine monks and nuns in this spiritual discipline. It is ideal for complete beginners and experienced hands alike, and with gentle realism covers the theory and practice of lectio.