Why write a book about solitude? One answer: God. Those who are God seekers often turn to solitude to listen to God, to be present to God, to be attentive to God’s word, wisdom and Spirit. Embraced purposefully, solitude enables us to cultivate another way of seeing and being, to be more open to discovery of and exploration into those unfathomable riches we call God.
Sr. Mary Paul Cutri, OCD, is a Discalced Carmelite nun of the Carmel of the Assumption in Latrobe, Pa.. A founding member of the Latrobe monastery, she has served her community in many roles, including as prioress, sub-prioress, treasurer, councilor, and director of formation. After the Second Vatican Council, which encouraged contemplative nuns to form federations, the U.S. monasteries which became the Carmelite Communities Associated (CCA) invited Sister Mary Paul to serve as the first coordinator of CCA.