Early Carthusian Writings

by Saint Bruno, Blessed Guigo, Prior Guigo II

A collection of key texts from early Carthusian writing in the IIth and 12th Centuries. St Letter to his Carthusian sons at the Chartreuse, The Letter to Raoul le Verd, Profession of Faith. Bl. Guigo, fifth prior of the Grande Letter on the solitary life. Guigo II, ninth prior of the Grande The scale of the cloister. Other books of classic Carthusian spirituality published by Gracewing include The Call of Silent Love, Interior Prayer, The Prayer of Love and Silence, They Speak by Silences, The Way of Silent Love and The Wound of Love.

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Paul Hoehn]

As long as I have known about the Carthusians, I have thought they were the most stylish religious order (ousting the Cistercians from their perch). Style, pointing always to a deeper intelligence, lead me to try to get a sense of this mysterious order’s spirituality. This book was my first attempt and, in comparison to some of the larger orders’ guidebooks for discerners, it didn’t necessarily fit the bill. However, a certain flavor is undeniable. Chiefly, while all of these texts are fairly predictable polemics in defense of the contemplative life, the usual entreaties and rejoinders are steeped in a surprising (for such eremitical monks) fraternal tenderness. The major highlight is Guigo II’s “Scale of the Monastery,” which is apparently a classic of Christian mystical literature that I’ve somehow missed. I left this volume feeling both more inspired to rigor and amazingly less stressed about my discernment process. Carthusians stay winning.

THAT BEING SAID… I don’t understand the theme-y medieval typography…….

[Fabi]

Interestingly, I found the most enthralling entry to be of Guigo. His take on spiritual exercises is easy to follow.