'At a time when so many are looking for ways to live a meaningful and authentic Christian life, this is a timely book. Those who are simply interested in finding ways to incorporate ancient monastic wisdom into their daily lives will find John-Francis' reflections thought provoking. Those who might consider a monastic vocation for themselves, will find the same questions an aid to their discernment.' -- Br. James Koester SSJE, Superior, Society of Saint John the Evangelist, USA
'John-Francis was my Novice Guardian when I first joined the Society of St. Francis. I learned a lot from him then, and I have learned more since reading this book. He speaks of the Religious Life with great affection and thanksgiving. It has encouraged me to go back to the roots of my vocation, to 're-plant' myself in the love of Christ. May this book inspire many others and raise up vocations to the religious life and all pathways to God.' -- Br. Nicholas Alan SSF, Guardian, Glasshampton Monastery and co-author of 'Seeing Differently: Franciscans and Creation'
'This beautiful and accessible book introduces the treasures of the Religious Life through the lens of John-Francis' varied experience and Anglican practise. Much more than a personal spiritual reflection, the breadth of his encounters and research mean the book is an excellent resource for those unfamiliar with the religious life and in particular how this has been expressed in the Anglican tradition. For those of us who have been exposed a little in religious life circles in the UK there is much delight in the collected quotes of so many familiar sisters and brothers. For those seekers coming afresh, encountering an unfamiliar world, John-Francis is an excellent guide.' -- The Rev. Simon Lewis, Dean of the Community of St. Anselm at Lambeth Palace
'Over the centuries monasticism existed seamlessly alongside society, with many points of connection. That changed with the dissolution of the monasteries in England under King Henry VIII but with monasticism's re-establishment in the Church of England in the nineteenth century Christian men and women were once again able to hear God's call to enter the monastery while those who were not called could come alongside monastic communities for spiritual benefit. John-Francis Friendship has not only lived in a Franciscan community but has also drunk from monasticism's spiritual well for decades. His insights are fully monastic while also easily applicable to all Christians. This book is not only an excellent primer on monasticism but a rich treasury of monastic wisdom that will strengthen all readers in their single-minded pursuit of God.' -- The Rev. Dr. Greg Peters, Visiting Scholar, Von Hugel Institute, St. Edmund's College, University of Cambridge, and author of 'The Monkhood of All Believers'
'To enter this book is to find oneself in another world soaked by the presence of God; it is to realise that all life, communal and individual, and indeed the natural world around, participates in a greater reality of love and there finds meaning and purpose. In a time of global pandemic, the ancient way chosen by Religious in answer to the deep question 'What Do You Seek?' is more relevant than ever, and I firmly predict we shall see a renaissance in vocations to the religious life in coming times. John-Francis Friendship brings all his experience and wisdom to open up the rich hinterland of the religious orders that have contributed so much to church and society in this beautifully written book which will inform and inspire in equal measure.' -- The Very Rev. Dr Frances E F Ward, former Dean of St Edmundsbury
