Seeking Life: The Baptismal Invitation of the Rule of St. Benedict

by Esther de Waal

In Seeking The Baptismal Invitation of the Rule of St. Benedict, renowned author Esther de Waal returns to the Rule of Saint Benedict—the inspiration for Seeking God, her classic book published twenty-five years ago. Here, she focuses on the prologue to the Rule and shows how it contains the clues we need to both understand and live by the vows made at our baptism. Baptism is so fundamental to our Christian identity that many congregations renew their baptismal promises each year on Easter. Yet how well do we understand the spirit and depth of those vows? How much do they shape our daily lives? Parts of the Rule of Saint Benedict are believed to be based on addresses given to those about to be—or who had recently been—baptized; they are a practical guide to "choosing the road that leads to life." With her characteristic insight and wisdom, Esther de Waal draws out enduring spiritual teaching on how to live when reborn "of water and the spirit."

Genres: Theology

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2008

Reviews

[Irene · Rating 2 out of 5]

This felt like a mash up of shorter pieces stuck inside the same cover in order to qualify as a book. There is a bit of background on the Benedictine Rule, a description of baptism in the early Church, a reflection on the Prologue of the Rule of Benedict, and pages and pages of quotes lifted from early Christian homilies on baptism. I needed more depth and more focus.

[Nick Ertz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a reflection of the beginnings. The beginning of the Rule (Prologue) and the beginning of Christian life in Baptism. This is a fine work of meditation as MS de Waal guides one through the prologue and the Easter Tridium. A good spiritual read.

[Joshua Booher · Rating 3 out of 5]

What there was of the book I really enjoyed. However, just as I got settled into the book it finished. I would have liked for the book to be longer.