Gabriel Bertonière
Published: 2005
Total Pages: 632
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The fascintating tale of hardship and triumph of THROUGH FAITH & FIRE begins in France, where monastic communities of all kinds found themselves struggling to survive in the wake of the French Revolution. A small band of Trappist monks set out on a years-long quest to find a new home--a quest that took them to Switzerland, Russia, Belgium, Canada and ultimately to New England and their present home among the hills of Spencer, MA. As the story unfolds, a succession of courageous abbots and brothers face travails from poor harvests, diseases, and physical deprivations to their perpetual nemesis of devastating fires. Their ability to rise above it all, against all odds, testifies to the power of their faith and committment to the highest principles. Thoroughly researched and lovingly told, Father Bentoniere brings this compelling history and its cast of characters to life, as generation after generation strives to maintain a life dedicated to prayer, work and contemplation.