No Moment Too Small: Rhythms of Silence, Prayer, and Holy Reading

by Norvene Vest

In No Moment Too Small , Vest focuses on three of the foundations of the Benedictine silence, the exploration of Scripture and other spiritual writings (lectio divina), and the hours of prayer. These essentials of Benedict's sixth-century rule of life offer a practical framework for spiritual growth in our own day, a path to God through the events and people of ordinary lives.

In her discussion of lectio-on-life, for example, Vest provides insight on the reading of our lives as the “text” in which we find God's Word written in the ordinary events of daily life. Exercises for individuals or groups follow each chapter on silence, prayer, and holy reading. Excellent for Lenten study groups as well as ongoing prayer or Bible study groups.

Genres: Spirituality, Prayer

156 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is one of several books written by Norvene Vest on the monastic wisdom of the Benedictine tradition. In this volume, Norvene Vest deals with aspects of Benedictine prayer and spirituality. In particular, as the title suggests, she focuses on silence, Holy reading and prayer- all three hallmarks of the Benedictine approach to spirituality. All three are enjoined in the Rule of St. Benedict as central to the way that Benedict recommends we find God.

Vest writes thoughtfully and sensitively about these practices, with an eye to their application outside the monastery. She is one of those fairly abundant lay Benedictines, who live outside the monastery, but still try to apply their understanding of what they have learned from their experiences in the monastery to everyday life. It is an approach which I am sympathetic- as a brief glance at my reading list might suggest. Benedictine spirituality attracts me because of its gentle rigour and its willingness to put the spiritual needs of a person over theological exactitude (not that theological exactitude is bad- it just doesn't take precedence over loving one's neighbour).

This book is an excellent example of this approach to spirituality and I look forward to searching out and reading the other books of Norvene Vest.

[Morgan Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

a sweet book!

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Found this book in the retreat house library at Holy Cross Abbey in northern Virginia the first night of my silent retreat. It was just what I needed for guidance as I navigated my first silent retreat with the monks. Wonderfully written and contains exercises which were super helpful. I highly recommend for anyone venturing on a silent retreat.

[Nick Ertz · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wonderful presentation of some key Benedictine disciplines. Norvene adds insight and background to what silence means; it's more than not talking. She explains Lectio Divina in a manner that makes it approachable to all. This will be a book I read again and again.

[Jonathan Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

For those looking for advise on structuring a deeper spiritual life, Norvene Vest offers an introduction to the Benedictine spiritual life and practices. These include making time for silent prayer; lectio divina; and liturgical prayer (praying the psalms.) For the newcomer and the spiritual veteran, this book can provide inspiration, and a spiritual kick in the pants to get moving.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read through this book maybe 4 times. The best chapter is the one on prayer. However, each chapter has merit.