Released on May 31, 2018 — the anniversary of the restoration of the ancient rite of consecration of virgins — my new book on hermits and consecrated virgins first describes the spiritual patrimony of these most ancient forms of consecrated life in the Catholic Church, highlighting the key charismatic elements of each vocation and briefly recounting their historic evolution. Then the book offers an exegetical analysis of the two canons that establish these forms of consecrated life in the Latin Catholic Church, canons 603 and 604 respectively. Finally, the study lists the questions most frequently asked by diocesan pastoral agents and candidates. I offer practical, canonical responses and sound advice based on her experience working in diocesan ministry and with discerners. The study is grounded in the canonical discipline, but is eminently readable and pastoral in order to serve the needs of vicars and delegates for consecrated life, diocesan chancellors, and pastors. Most especially, I hope that this book proves useful to people considering these unique and sublime paths to heed the Lord’s call by offering concrete answers to very practical questions.
Available on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback formats:
Christina Hip-Flores, JCD 