Rowan Williams

In this new book, Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, introduces us to some aspects and personalities of the Orthodox Christian world, from the desert contemplatives of the fourth century to philosophers, novelists and activists of the modern era, that suggest where we might look for fresh light and warmth.

He shows how this rich and diverse world opens up new ways of thinking about spirit and body, prayer and action, worship and social transformation, which go beyond the polarisations we take for granted. Taking in the world of the great spiritual anthology, the Philokalia, and the explorations of Russian thinkers, discussing the witness of figures like Maria Skobtsova, and the challenging theologies of modern Greek thinkers, Rowan Williams opens the door to a 'climate and landscape of our humanity that can indeed be warmed and transfigured'.

For over a millennium the Rule - a set of guidelines for monastic conduct - has been influential on the life of Benedictine monks, but has also served in some sense as a 'background note' to almost all areas of civic experience.

The effects of this on society have been far-reaching and Benedictine communities and houses still attract countless visitors. As the author writes, the chapters of his book are 'simply an invitation to look at various current questions through the lens of the Rule and to reflect on aspects of Benedictine history that might have something to say to us'.

With Williams as our guide, The Way of St Benedict speaks to the Rule's ability to help anyone live more fully in harmony with others whilst orientating themselves fully to the will of God.