Monastic life in the world today is perhaps as never before, a testimony of trust in the providence of God. In what way can we understand the act of consecrating life to prayer and work in a world that is continually desacralized. The brightness of the fleeting glares with vehemence; Infiltrated in the technological revolution has come the exacerbation of consumption and the alienation that results from it. In big bands of the population the sense of the sacred is lost. Communicated more than at any time in history, we exchanged mere fatuities; Today that particular verse, which says Vanity of vanities, is all vanity! (Ecclesiastes 1,2). That is why, whoever becomes a monk or a nun today, gives special testimony of faith in the living presence of Jesus Christ. He claims to have seen something that is not in sight. That person in the midst of the multiple mirages has noticed something that escapes the majority. In the history of spirituality it has been called "Experience of the Presence". Those who in the second decade of the 21st century embrace the religious life, particularly the monastic, have heard the peculiar voice of the inner desert. It is a deep silence that draws them to the deep heart. They have been fascinated by God through various contingencies. Some were first seduced by prayer and quiet steps resounding in the cloister, others fraternal life in communion of works, to those from beyond them perhaps invited, the lectio, personal communion with the sacred writing. As a beloved niece said before her first profession: "... I was so refreshed by the joy of the nuns!" No mistake. Many still impress the joy without purpose of a life recovered in the essential. Be the writings that follow here for you, as an act thrown into becoming, a gesture of hope and recognition to the Spirit of God that encourages you as a soft breeze where w

Catalog of an exhibition held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art from March 26, 1988 to June 5, 1988, and at the Art Institute of Chicago, from Jul. 9, 1988, to Sept. 18, 1988./ Includes bibliographical references (p. 125-134).

The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, has one of the greatest collections of art in the history of the world. However, the Russian economy is struggling. President Vladimir Putin is desperate to raise hard currency, and he lets his inner circle know that its time to sell off some of the hidden Russian treasures of the Hermitage Museum. General Serkin of the Russian army, a confidant of President Putin, doesnt want the art sold off, but disobedience to Putin has many negative ramifications. Russia stages the 2014 Winter Olympics. Immediately after the Olympics, Russia invades Crimea in the Ukraine. The international community sanctions Russia. The Russian ruble collapses. The value of Russian exports and the value of Russian oil crumble. Russia has other active conflicts in Syria and Chechnya, and Russians are hungry. Putin tells General Serkin it was time to sell the art. This is the fictional story of how the art of the Hermitage was stolen and then recovered.

In 'The Hermitage, Home of General Andrew Jackson,' Mary C. Dorris delves into the historical significance and architectural beauty of General Andrew Jackson's estate. Dorris expertly weaves together historical facts and personal anecdotes to provide a comprehensive look at the life and times of one of America's most controversial figures. The book is written in a captivating narrative style, making it accessible to both history enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Dorris meticulously describes the layout of The Hermitage, exploring the gardens, outbuildings, and iconic mansion that tell the story of Jackson's rise to power and his lasting legacy. The literary context of the book is rooted in the rich tradition of American historical writing, offering a unique perspective on the life of a founding father. Mary C. Dorris brings a fresh and insightful approach to understanding the complexities of General Jackson's character and the historical significance of his estate. Her meticulous research and engaging writing style make 'The Hermitage, Home of General Andrew Jackson' a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the life and legacy of this influential American leader.

Set against a backdrop of historical political intrigue, this mystery follows Father Martin on his investigations into a set of gruesome murders. Headless bodies are surfacing, and Martin is under pressure from King Henry of Anjou to find an answer before Henry's proposed expedition to take over the territories of Ireland.Could the killings and the upcoming invasion be connected?