JourneyOnline
By Judith Sutera
Liguori 2010
RRP $16.95
Reviewed by Linda Hanson, who worships at Pomona Uniting Church and enjoys the seasons of the church.
The sub heading of this book – Daily Scripture and Prayers together with Saint Benedict’s own words – is a very accurate summary.
I hadn’t read much of St. Benedict’s works previously, so I was interested to read what he had to say.
In the book there is a day for each day of Advent and for each of the 12 days of Christmas.
Each day opens with a quote from St Benedict which is followed by a scripture verse.
There is then a short prayer followed by an action. In each action there is brief reflection to introduce the action.
My main problem reviewing this book is that I had just reviewed another Advent reflection book which I enjoyed more and was cheaper, so I know which one I would recommend to purchase (and it wasn’t this one.)
However in saying that, this book was easy to read and there was enough in it to deepen my experience of Advent and Christmas.
As the writer suggests the Rule of St. Benedict may seem a little dry by itself, but with the added prayer and reflection in this book it is easier to see why his writing is so endearing.
Any book that encourages the reader to take time in the busyness of the Christmas season to spend time with God is a winner for me, so I would recommend it. Nonetheless there are cheaper ones that are just as good on the market.
If you are interested in the Rule of St. Benedict ensure you get a copy for this advent season.
