ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the renewal of contemplative traditions that have an appreciation of everyday activities. It reviews the place of everyday practice in the early Christian desert contemplative movement. The chapter then presents a case study – the New Monasticism Movement – as a manifestation of the quotidian emphasis in the lived practice of contemplative traditions today. Although a wide range of influences may be discerned in the writings, manifestos and prayer resources of Christian new monastic communities there are certain commonalities regarding their foundational inspiration. The chapter also discusses some writings on spiritual practice which are shaping the quotidian emphasis in the practices of new monastic spiritualities. New monastic communities bear witness to the myriad ways it is possible to embrace classic monastic ideas and practices while also reimagining and recasting them to give shape to a new, authentic and sometimes-prophetic life practice in quotidian circumstances.
