October 2011

Ancient Paths: Discover Christian Formation the Benedictine Way, by David Robinson, Paraclete Press USA, 2010.

Reviewed by Bernardina Sontrop SGS

Written by David Robinson, a Benedictine oblate, Ancient Paths offers both personal and practical insights into the sixth century Rule of St Benedict. It is an attempt to explore a question asked by many in today’s busy world: “How can busy active people find rest for their souls and guidance for the pilgrimage of faith that lies ahead?” (p. xviii).

Drawing upon centuries of Benedictine spirituality and monastic spiritual practices, Ancient Paths presents Benedict’s perspectives and principles as a rich source of wisdom and practical guidance for Christian formation today. Through biblical principles and practical applications, readers will discover ancient but new ways of nurturing their personal faith and living their faith together with others.

In the first part of the book, Robinson explores the Rule of Benedict, describing it as five paths in Christian life: “The Path of Communal Prayer”, “The Path of Spiritual Guidance”, “The Path of Ordinary Spirituality”, “The Path of Lectio Divina”, “The Path of Hospitality”. In the second part of the book, Robinson looks at how the Rule supports Christian formation as a “Way of Life Together”.

The book is a practical guide for both individuals and groups seeking to deepen their Christian lives in the Benedictine spiritual tradition. Each chapter ends with a list of different activities and further reading to guide our journey into deeper Christian formation. A 12-week study guide is also provided for individuals, home groups, house churches and small group leaders.

I enjoyed Robinsons’ book, especially his exploration of us being “God’s work of art”. He writes: “As faith pilgrims when we enter God’s art studio, we put our lives into the hands of the Master Artist and allow Christ to form us as he chooses. Allowing God to employ such instruments of the spiritual arts as described in the Rule … we will see our lives gradually shaped into God’s beautiful art work of love, and we will increase our capacity to love others in the workshop of the Lord.” (p. 25).