Clearly we receive far more than a simple "sense of the Spirit" in this masterful integration and reflection on the evolution of the theology and lived practices of religious life in the Church both for today, and for many days to come. -- James Bretzke, S.J., John Carroll University, USA While religious life is thriving in certain parts of the Church, in Europe and North America it is experiencing widespread lack of appeal to new members and appears to be only a shadow of its former vital self. Building on her earlier studies of religious life and charism, Judith Merkle has given us an indispensable examination of the crisis religious life faces in the post-conciliar Church and in a world that has become dull to a sense of transcendence. This wise and hope-filled examination is must reading for men and women leaders of religious communities, their members, and all who treasure the rich heritage of religious life. -- John J. Burkhard, O.F.M. Conv., the former Washington Theological Union, USA A richly challenging book which engages with significant contemporary theology in a reflection on religious life surviving beyond traditional cultural and religious interpretive patterns. Merkle's analysis offers hope and vision in uncertain times. An essential read for those continuing to believe in the value of the consecrated life. -- Gemma Simmonds CJ, Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, UK