Contemplative Gleanings from the Hermits of Big Sur with Paula Huston

by Swanson

Absolutely fascinating, gorgeously written, frequently brilliant. In her story of how an ancient monastic order found a home in California, and how the author found a home with them, Paula Huston offers us an invitation into a world that few see, but all will want to experience.

– James Martin, SJ

Paula Huston has written a book, The Hermits of the Big Sur, that charts the history of the New Camaldoli Hermitage. A history born amidst Vatican II and World War II with even deeper contemplatives roots back to the 11th century in the mountains of Italy. Paula follows the ragtag set of novices who become the elders of the community, those who wandered to follow other calls, and those hermits who it their life’s work to be enfolded by Mystery. Paula Huston is more than author, but oblate of New Camaldoli Hermitage aka a non-monastic member of the community. She shares with us the gifts her contemplative rhythm has brought to her days, the virtues of working an olive press and writer’s pen, and gleanings from being in friendship with the monks over these decades.

Visit paulahuston.com to keep tabs on her works of beauty.

Episode Show Notes

Books by Paula Huston

Resources & People Mentioned

Drink Recommendation

  • Cabernet Sauvignon