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School(s) for Conversion: 12 Marks of a New Monasticism

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The Rutba House's book "School(s) for Conversion: 12 Marks of a New Monasticism" provides readers with a collective snapshot of an emerging American network of groups interested in recapturing some of the grassroots basics of the early church and also the spiritual values of classic monastic figures of the past like Benedict and Francis. It is referred to as the "New Monasticism." The book is the result of a conference of like-minded souls held in 2004 in Durham, North Carolina, in order to "help us discern a possible shape of a new monasticism." (page X). It contains a Preface, Introduction, and 12 subsequent chapters each outlining one of the 12 values that were discerned at the conference, namely, relocation to abandoned places, sharing goods, hospitality to strangers, lament for racial discrimination, submission to the church, spiritual formation, common life, support for singles and marrieds, geographic proximity, ecological stewardship, peacemaking, and contemplative prayer.

There are several strengths of the book (and the movement). First, it is a collective effort which helps give the reader a snapshot of the movement's diversity and depth. The variety of backgrounds and experiences of the authors adds to this sense. Second, the 12 marks are important aspects of Christian life and mission which have been forgotten in many quarters of the church (especially the financially and socially comfortable) and are rightly being re-animated. Third, real-life stories punctuate each chapter illustrating how each value is being applied practically in a variety of contexts. Fourth, it is a readable book since it is written in a conversational style that I found winsome and appealing, and it is only about 170 pages long. Fifth, authors freely draw upon the rich history found in both the Bible itself and do not suffer from amnesia (as some do) as they look also to the history of God's dealings with the church through figures such as Benedict, Francis, and Dorothy Day.

There are, however, notable weaknesses of the book (and the movement). First, there is virtually no discussion or "mark" devoted to presenting the lost world with the basic message of salvation, i.e., that people need to recognize and forsake of their sin and turn to Christ as the only door to God (Mark 16:15-16, John 14:6, Acts 4:12, and Acts 19:10). Second, there is no discussion or "mark" devoted to church planting or verbal evangelism. It could be argued that "Mark 1. Relocation to Abandoned Places of Empire" reflects something of the heart of church planting and that "Mark 3. Hospitality to the Stranger" reflects something of the heart of evangelism. However, I wish these items were more explicitly dealt with. Third, there is a good focus on helping the marginalized and needy, but no real recognition that the middle and upper classes also need to encounter Jesus Christ and be transformed. Despite "Mark 1", ironically, is the movement willing to abandon people just because they are well-to-do? Fourth, the book never deals with the issue of the supernatural, i.e. signs and wonders, as a tool that God uses to reach people and establish his presence among them (Mar 16:17-18, Acts 19:11-12). Fifth, overall the movement is really a renewal effort within the institutional church by reminding believers of certain values. But, it does not seem brave or interested enough to see itself as network of legitimate New Testament churches.

Overall, it is a worthwhile read for those interested in the re-emergence of this new form of grassroots Christian community in America.

RAD ZDERO, author of LETTERS TO THE HOUSE CHURCH MOVEMENT and THE GLOBAL HOUSE CHURCH MOVEMENT