In recent years there has been a growing interest in classical spiritual formation methods. One expression of that, especially among an emerging generation of leaders, is the common use of the term “new monasticism”. I think this is wonderful and should be encouraged.

But I can’t help but smile at what some call “classic”. Or for that matter, what some call “new”. Some of the very best thought on spiritual formation has been written in the past 50-years. There are even writers today who will be studied for decades if not centuries (think Dallas Willard).

Granted, if you are practicing Ignatian spirituality then you are tapping into a classic. Same thing is true for many other sources of wisdom about spiritual growth. But sometimes people are confusing “classic” with “different”. As rivers of spiritual thoughts begin pouring together, which happens as the world grows smaller, the contemporary Church is going to discover that some of the best thinking about spiritual formation has happened just across our borders.

Catherine Doherty is a great example of this. Her book Poustinia: Encountering God in Silence, Solitude and Prayer (Madonna House Classics) was first published about thirty-five years ago. It reflects some of the finest spiritual traditions of Russia, but it is influenced by Doherty’s experiences since immigrating to North America. This weaves together some of the “classic” ideas of spiritual formation with some of the realities of our modern society. The blending is very effective and makes for a powerful study of how we can seek out solitude in such a busy world.

A poustinia in Russia is a small cabin or room where people go to pray and seek solitude. It is based on the word for desert. Those called to called to live permanently in a poustinia are called poustiniki. Doherty’s book explores the idea of a poustinia in North America and gives instructions on how to create such a space even within our own hearts.

If you enjoy books about spiritual transformation and want to learn what other faith traditions have practiced, you should read this book. Not only will you be impressed with the power and depth of Doherty’s insights, you’ll be enchanted by the entire idea of a poustinia. It makes me want to go find my own little cabin in the woods!