Joan Chittister

I don't imagine many readers have come across the work of Joan Chittister unless it was in review of one of her books a few years ago. She has been a Benedictine sister since 1952 and is now in her early 80s. She has held various positions of responsibility, not only within her own community, but also internationally, and has built up a reputation as a leading reformer of religious life and advocate for justice, peace and women's rights. This book is based on a lengthy series of interviews, and gives an unprecedented insight into her background and development and the single-mindedness with which she has pursued her vocation. Like Beatrice Bruteau, she was greatly influenced by the writings of Thomas Merton with his social engagement from inside the monastery. I appreciated her own recommendations for a contemplative community in terms of making time for solitude, keeping halls quiet, spiritual reading, reflective prayer and sharing insights within the community. She combines enormous competence with a capacity to laugh and enjoy the good things of life while passionately espousing causes dear to her heart. It is easy to appreciate her affinity with Pope Francis in terms of reforming and renewing the Church while at the same time upholding the need for women to be truly included.