The present volume, Balthasar writes, “was first published (in 1984) because of the wish expressed by our Holy Father, John Paul II, in 1983 that a symposium on Adrienne von Speyr should be held in Rome. It took place in the fall of 1985. A symposium of that kind required the publication of Adrienne’s entire works, and so in 1985, with the express permission of the Pope, the hitherto restricted posthumous works (Nachlaßwerke), which provide profound insights into her personal experiences, were made available to the general public. To many people these works will at first seem astonishing, perhaps even disconcerting. That is why the present book is needed. (It, too, was published, after some minor emendations asked for by Rome, with the permission of the Holy See.) It is intended to help the reader understand the ecclesial orientation of Adrienne’s works, to see them as graces for a foundation within the Church.” (From the author’s preface)
Preface
I. REPORT
Introduction
A. The Ways of Access
1. Adrienne’s Path to Her Conversion
2. My Path to 1940
B. Our Common Theological Work
1. Adrienne’s Early View of the Foundation
2. The Dictated Works and How They Were Composed
3. Adrienne’s Themes
4. Adrienne’s Help with My Work
5. From Adrienne’s Letters
6. My Works since 1940
II. PLAN: THE COMMUNITY OF ST. JOHN
A. Directives for All
1. Introduction
2. The Name of the Community
3. How the Community Understands Itself as a Secular Institute
4. Understanding the Life of the Counsels
5. The Spirit of Obedience
6. The Spirit of Virginity
7. The Spirit of Poverty
8. The Spirit of Penance and Joy
9. Discretion
10. Balance
11. New Life, New Departures
12. Old Age, Sickness, and Death
13. The Organization and Leadership of the Community of St. John
B. The Priests’ Branch
1. “Secular Priesthood”
2. The Community’s Image of the Priest
3. Ecclesial Status
4. Entry and Formation
5. Obligations
6. Understanding the Evangelical Counsels
7. Membership
8. Leaving the Community
C. The Women’s Branch
1. Admission
2. Choice of Profession and Formation
3. The Life of Prayer
4. Profession and Work
5. Manner of Life
6. Leadership
7. The Circle of Associates
8. Departure and Dismissal
D. The Men’s Branch
1. Spirituality
2. Admission
3. Formation
4. Promises
5. Manner of Life
6. Following the Counsels in Professional Life
7. Leadership
8. Leaving the Community
III. APPENDIX: THE EXERCISES AS SEEN FROM HEAVEN
Foreword
Text
Abbreviations