A sketch of the unique tradition of the 'white monks' as they have sought 'men and women alike 'to leave all things to follow the Gospel.
Notes from title and verso pages: André Louf, Abbot of Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Bailleul, France Nivard Kinsella, monk of St. Joseph Abbey, Roscrea, Ireland
First published in English as The Cistercian Alternative by Gill and Macmillan Ltd., Goldenbridge, Inchicore, Dublin, Ireland, 1983. Copyright 1983 by the Irish Cistercian Abbots. All rights reserved.
p.11 - Introduction by Dom Celsus Kelly, Abbot of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone p.15 - Translator's Preface p. 143 - References
Appendix A: Basic Texts 1. Cistercian Beginnings - Exordium Cistercii 2. Cistercian Life Today - A Declaration on Cistercian Life by the 1969 General Chapter of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance (O.C.S.O.) 3. Statute on Unity and Pluralism of the 1969 General Chapter O.C.S.O.
Appendix B: Cistercian Monasteries Today Lists monasteries in or near English-speaking areas.
Ending pages list the works that make up the Cistercian Studies series
Realmente un libro necesario para introducirse en la belleza de la vida monástica cisterciense. Merece el apelativo de clásico y cualquier persona abierta al Espíritu Santo va a disfrutar mucho de su lectura
A very good introduction to the Cistercian order. Its history and customs. I has been years since I read this so can't give the best review,but I would most certainly recommend it for anyone interested in the Cistercian Order (including the Strict Observance aka Trappists) or an interest in Catholic religious life in general.
A fascinating look at the way of monks followed the Cistercian habit. I found how they value God's Word, community, and holiness to be worthy of imitation. I could not follow the path of these monks, and I can't entirely agree with some of their theology. Despite this, there is much to admire in those who choose this path.