Edited by Kathleen Deignan and Libby Osgood. Published by Orbis Books, 2023 (USD 18.75). Reviewed by Peter Healy

In the introduction to Teilhard de Chardin, editor Kathleen Deignan says: “What you hold in your hand is a devotional companion for postmodern contemplatives created from the inspired cosmopoetics of one of the great visionaries of our planet, the Jesuit priest-scientist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin.” It is a breviary “for those who love the world”. 

The book is designed according to the traditional monastic hours of the day: “Dawn”, “Day”, “Dusk” and “Dark” for the seven days of the week. The editors have added an eighth day called “Tomorrow Toward Omega”. Each hour gives a selection of Teilhardian gems from his many books and essays. The references for Teilhard’s writing in each prayer, reflection and reading are at the back of the book.

This Book of Hours is a treasure-trove of Teilhard’s writings. If you are looking for a way of praying that offers a unique spiritual vision, then this breviary is for you. I have been using it for personal prayer for the last month and find it to be a cosmopoetic devotional companion for our time.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 288 December 2023: 31