We yearn for communion with one another because of God’s yearning for communion with us. Fr. Billy reminds us that communion, according to John Paul II’s Novo Millennio Ineunte, lies at the very heart of the Christian message.
Contemplating the other. Living in unity. Accepting each other as “gift.” Sharing each other’s burdens. Although such right relationship is meant to be practiced by everyone, the “spirituality of communion” has special significance for religious, since they are called to be “experts” in its daily practice.
Fr. Billy points to the striking benefits and authentic renewal that embracing a spirituality of communion can bring to the life of men and women religious and their communities. He offers companionship and concrete strategies for helping to help narrow the “gap” between the vision of what we desire to become and the reality of who we are.
Each chapter opens with an epigram about religious life and closes with a series of reflection questions.
“Many members of religious institutes will recognize themselves in the reflection of Father Billy, who offers a clear-eyed view of our struggles over the last four or five decades. The author avoids useless polemic preferring, instead, to situate religious life among the other vocations in the Church and indicates how religious can live their unique vocation in a spirit of communion. The book is an excellent tool for the initial and ongoing formation of religious women and men, as well as a reliable voice for all those who want to understand better how this religious life is to be lived today.”
Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.
Secretary, Congregation for Institutes
of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life
“Religious life is not a naïve utopia but a commitment to live in the gap between vision and reality, the already and the not-yet, the place where human relationships are deepened in the midst of human frailties. This is a well-written and thought-provoking book which will raise questions for some and provide insight for many. Living in the Gap offers a wise and spiritual foundation for those seeking the pearl of great price.”
Sr. Ilia Delio, O.S.F.
Senior Fellow, Woodstock Theological Center
