Through Julian's Window: Growing into Wholeness with Julian of Norwich

by Elizabeth Ruth Obbard

Like her 14th century predecessor Julian of Norwich, Sr Elizabeth lives as a solitary attached to a religious community. Like Julian, she is available to all who come for help, advice or direction. In Julian's cell were three windows - one looking into the sanctuary of the church, one opening on to a secluded garden where she could attend to her own physical needs and a third where she conversed with all who came for help. Sr Elizabeth relates the three different aspects of these windows to the three things that Julian desired of God - contrition, compassion and longing for God. So deeply did she desire these qualities that she asked God to 'wound' her with them, but they became gifts of healing for herself and for others. Through contrition she learned her limitations and her need of others, compassion enabled her to become an effective spiritual guide and in longing for God she found purpose and meaning for her whole life.

96 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2008

About the author

Elizabeth Ruth Obbard is a Carmelite sister and lives as a solitary attached to the Friars, Aylesford, Kent. She is a popular retreat leader and spiritual director and is the author of numerous books.

Reviews

[Katherine Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely little book. Towards the end, I found myself slowing down because I didn't want it to run out.

[Marion Mahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will definitely be reading this book again. Such rich insight. Thank you!

[Harry Allagree · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sr. Elizabeth Ruth Obbard is an experienced Carmelite solitary attached to a pilgrimage shrine operated by the Carmelite Friars in Aylesford, Kent, England. Her book's subtitle is Growing Into Wholeness with Julian of Norwich. She cleverly uses the three windows of Julian's cell as a vehicle to write about adoration & love for God; service of others; & the necessary recognition of one's own limits & need of support in pursuing such spiritual wholeness in practical day-to-day living. Seekers of any persuasion will find this book helpful, balanced & worthy of serious reflection.

[Keren Dibbens-Wyatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deeply considered overview of Julian's message, life, and writing, from someone who has lived out her own call to solitude. I found this extremely helpful and insightful.