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Ruth Burrows: Essential Writings
Ruth Burrows is the pen name of Sister Rachel, OCD, a nun in the Carmelite monastery in Quidenham, England, and the author of more than a dozen books on prayer and the mystical life. Describing the central theme that runs throughout her work, she writes: “God offers himself in total love to each one of us. Our part is to open our hearts to receive the gift.” That theme is reflected in the writings assembled here, beginning with her personal discovery of the gift of God; the gift of God to each person; the realization that we are created to receive God’s gift; and the call to open ourselves to this gift and to be transformed into the gift of God for others.
- GenresCatholic
195 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2019
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63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
December 3, 2023
This selection made me sure of three things;
- that I have to get my hands on a copy of Interior Castle Explored
- the gift that it is to read spiritual works written in my own language and in my own context, not translated, especially by one whose gift is not just theological but literary; whose words and sentences on their own are beautiful to read even before I contemplate the implications of their meaning
- my utter need for God. what better way to enter Advent?
- that I have to get my hands on a copy of Interior Castle Explored
- the gift that it is to read spiritual works written in my own language and in my own context, not translated, especially by one whose gift is not just theological but literary; whose words and sentences on their own are beautiful to read even before I contemplate the implications of their meaning
- my utter need for God. what better way to enter Advent?
October 9, 2019
For those whose spirits are dry and grey
Thomas Merton noted that some people can only approach God intellectually, which makes contemplation harder.
That seems to be the case with author Ruth Burrows. This Carmelite writes that she never experienced anything mystical, except a fear of God that sent her off to the convent.
In fact, she denies that mystic experience means anything, except for a few in each era, not most ordinary people.
In a later chapter, she contrasts "light on" and "light off" experiences. Lights off means we are close to God but don't understand it. Lights on means people like St. Teresa of Avila or St. John of the Cross. They can " see what God is doing."
Unfortunately, this relegates everyone else to second-class status. Mysticism is only for the ultra holy chosen by God. The rest of us can forget it. This creates a kind of elitism, although she tries to deny it.
This book does, however, speak to those who cannot feel God's presence - those who feel they and dry, like she does. It reminds them they are still special to the Father, no matter how invisible the divine. God is With us whether we can sense it or not.
I (a Catholic) add that this is true of all, even non-Catholics.
If you can't feel God, this is for you.
Thomas Merton noted that some people can only approach God intellectually, which makes contemplation harder.
That seems to be the case with author Ruth Burrows. This Carmelite writes that she never experienced anything mystical, except a fear of God that sent her off to the convent.
In fact, she denies that mystic experience means anything, except for a few in each era, not most ordinary people.
In a later chapter, she contrasts "light on" and "light off" experiences. Lights off means we are close to God but don't understand it. Lights on means people like St. Teresa of Avila or St. John of the Cross. They can " see what God is doing."
Unfortunately, this relegates everyone else to second-class status. Mysticism is only for the ultra holy chosen by God. The rest of us can forget it. This creates a kind of elitism, although she tries to deny it.
This book does, however, speak to those who cannot feel God's presence - those who feel they and dry, like she does. It reminds them they are still special to the Father, no matter how invisible the divine. God is With us whether we can sense it or not.
I (a Catholic) add that this is true of all, even non-Catholics.
If you can't feel God, this is for you.
September 26, 2021
I am so disappointed I have not discovered this gem earlier. Sister Rachel's writings has been balm to my weary soul. I am utterly delighted!
October 30, 2025
Was told to read this in Spiritual direction and it was so beautiful. So many amazing quotes and things to reflect on.. Sister Burrows truly was such a gift!!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews