Consecrated Spirits

A collection of writings by women from the Roman, Anglican and Orthodox traditions from the earliest years of Christianity onwards. It includes prayers, meditations, expositions, autobiography, spiritual advice, and comments on and recommendations for the pursuit of the spiritual life.

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Many silent and forgotten voices are brought to life in this volume which presents the accumulated wisdom of women mystics, theologians, spiritual directors, poets, visionaries, mothers and activists over eleven centuries. Featured writers include Julian of Norwich, Hildegard of Bingen, Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila, Therese of Lisieux, Bernadette of Lourdes, Bridget of Sweden, Wendy Beckett, Joan Chittister, and many more, some translated into English for the first time. Their concerns are broad ranging and they reflect on: Prayer, Family life, a woman's lot, suffering, comfort and consolation, women's ministry and its restrictions and more. All these varied voices are linked by a common thread: in every age women have sought authentic spiritual self expression. This anthology is an inspiration for all women today who are seeking opportunity to define and realise their charisma.