Hello friends!
I’m planning to host an Advent-tide virtual book club and would love to have you join me. This year, I’m reading Grace Hamman’s new book Ask of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life during the four weeks of Advent—which starts on 11/30!
I’ll be offering opt-in discussion prompts for each week, as well as two video calls where we can share thoughts and reflections in real time.
A bit about the book:
Here’s what you need to know to join in:
—Make sure you are subscribed to my Substack. Since this is a pilot run, I’m making it open to all subscription tiers. You can learn more about subscription options here.
—Between now and 11/29, get your hands on a copy of Ask of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life. You can start reading now or follow the suggested reading schedule below. A very doable goal to keep in mind is 10 pages a day throughout the Advent season.
—Download the Substack app if you want mobile access, and personalize your notifications, especially for the “chat” feature.
—Look for discussion question prompts in the chat, and you can engage as much or as little as you like.
—If you’re having trouble finding the chat, here is a tutorial for where to find the virtual book club.
Here is an optional reading and video meeting schedule (will be recorded and available afterward):
11/30-12/6: Read the introductory materials through Chapter Two.
12/7-12/13: Read Chapters Three-Five
Friday 12/12 or Saturday 12/13: Substack Live video discussion (I’ll poll participants once we get started, so this is subject to change based on reader availability)
12/14-12/20: Read Chapters Six-Chapter Eight
12/21-12:23: Read the Conclusion
Final Substack Live video session: Time/date TBD based on reader availability—will likely be 12/20 or 12/21.
I think that’s about it! I don’t know about you, but for me, sometimes it can be hard to hang onto the contemplative and penitential flavor of the Advent season, so I’m looking forward to savoring this book.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Blessed Advent season, friends.
Warmly,
Marissa
