This was the right book at the right time for me, and it spoke to me and my situation in my community in an amazing way. So therefore I was always going to give it a good rating. The writing is also so good; utterly real and connected to reality, and visionary and inspiring. As we come out of COVID we need to become aware that it won’t be Back to Normal, but Forward to Better. We have a unique opportunity to create better communities, and be a part of better communities. It’s a once in a century chance, and I just felt that reading this book in Jan 2021 gave me the blueprint for the next decade of how I spend my time. I’m so excited, inspired, and grateful to the author. Brilliant.
A book about applying the insights of the Community of Aidan and Hilda to modern church life. Being familiar with new monasticism and practices such as spiritual direction, I didn't learn a great deal from this book. I get the impression it's written primarily for an evangelical audience, particularly those unfamiliar with contemplative Christian traditions. Nevertheless, it's very readable and gave me a good sense of how the Community of Aidan and Hilda works.
Reed offers a hopeful alternative to quick programs and idealised ways of making disciples, calling us to a way and rhythm of discipleship that is enduring. This is a book I will read again, to deepen my own discipleship way of life, and invite others onto similar paths.
Why bother with a rule or way of life? Reed's thoughtful book shares his own journey of discovery towards building community and living a rhythm more in keeping with celtic values . A challenging book to ponder over and put into practice.