Dissident Women, Beguines, and the Quest for Spiritual Authority

‘In the Introduction to her book, the author shares with us that her introduction to the beguines Hadewijch, Mechthild, and Marguerite was akin to meeting spiritual companions, without the limitations of time and geography. The contemplative sensitivity of the writing invites the reader to sit down with this book in a quiet space where its richness of insights may seep into the soul. This book will become a living spiritual companion to contemporary seekers.’ Bernadette Flanagan, leader of the research group Spirituality in Society and the Professions (SpirSoP) at the South East Technological University, Waterford Campus, Ireland ‘Catherine Lambert’s study of contemporary women’s spiritual engagement with medieval beguine mystics is fascinating and insightful at so many levels. It sheds light on the lives of contemporary women spiritual seekers on the edges of the church and demonstrates how ancient mystical texts and the lives of ancient mystical women can be a source of enlivening and sustenance for them. It employs creative research methods and is beautifully written. It will be of great interest to feminist practical theologians, researchers of contemporary faith, and spiritual accompanists as well as scholars of medieval mysticism. I warmly commend it.’ Nicola Slee, Professorial Research Fellow at The Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education and Professor of Feminist Practical Theology at Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam ‘With sensitivity and perception, Catherine Lambert listens deeply to three women of the thirteenth century and brings their voices into dialogue with women ""on the edge"" of the contemporary church. Here and now, Hadewijch of Brabant, Mechtild of Magdeburg, and Marguerite Porete inspire and enable new stories of courage. Read on!’ Katharine Massam, University of Divinity, Australia