by Claire Waddelove OSB. Published by Gracewing, 2020. (USD 17.95). Reviewed by Teresa Hanratty

Our Father: A Biblical Meditation on the Lord’s Prayer reflects Claire Waddelove’s deep knowledge of Scripture, liturgy and theology as resources for prayer, belief and daily living. The book draws from both the First and New Testaments based around the Lord’s Prayer. The scriptural texts are to be read slowly following the Benedictine tradition of attending with the eyes and ears of the heart.

The Introduction describes meditation as Lectio Divina or Sacred Reading. Claire quotes Cardinal Sarah’s description of Lectio Divina as “a moment of silent listening, contemplation and profound recollection in the light of the Spirit.”

Each chapter title is a line of the Lord’s Prayer. Claire uses prayer from the Mass, commentary, (often quoting scholars such as St Benedict, Pope Benedict XVI and Church documents) and biblical quotes as the basis of the meditation.

Our Father is only 188 pages. I found some of the non-inclusive language jarring. Those who wish to pray with the Scriptures could read the book in short excerpts. It would be a useful resource for a small prayer group.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 273 August 2022: 31