The Intentional Life: Making of a Spiritual Vocation

by Basil Hume

As the Abbot at Ampleforth Abbey in England, Cardinal Basil Hume was responsible for helping the monks under his care grow in Christ and live in the world. The Intentional Life: The Making of a Spiritual Vocation is a compilation of talks given by Cardinal Hume to help the monks with a dilemma faced by many people engaged in a spiritual life-the difficulty of merging a life of action with a life of contemplation. Although written for the monks of his abbey, Cardinal Hume´s writings are about more than just the monastic life. His talks are about commitment, vows, caring for others, living life, and holding to your values when those around you don´t understand (or even respect) them. Anyone struggling with decision-making or commitment, young people, people searching for their faith, and anyone interested in monasticism will find this volume engaging and thought-provoking. Until his death in June 1999, Basil Hume, OSB, was the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster and a monk of Ampleforth Abbey in Great Britain. His down-to-earth approach to the spiritual life and wisdom gained from guiding others into deeper faith made him internationally known and loved.

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2003

Reviews

[Patrick Riviere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic little book that is very "down to earth" with great spiritual insights. Although it's conferences of an abbot to his monks, there are many things applicable to all Christians

[Photovy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good guide on how to live intentionally.

[Amicizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for those seeking insights into their personal vocations. Hume addresses a Benedictine novice in this book but many of the lessons that he speaks of can be applied to other walks in life, including married life and the single life. Clearly this is most relevant to a R.C. audience but I think others can read and relate to most of it without too much difficulty. His style is personable and conversational -- uncommon for authors of his caliber.

[C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book - I don't agree with everything Hume says, but wow - a great conversational read, practical applications, and just really well-observed truths. He speaks to a Benedictine novice but the lessons are applicable to all who wish to grow in holiness.