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Caryll Houselander (1901–1954) was a Catholic laywoman, mystic, and writer whose profound spiritual insights continue to inspire readers worldwide. Born in Bath, England, she converted to Catholicism as a child and developed a deeply contemplative faith rooted in empathy, humility, and a vivid awareness of Christ’s presence in everyday life.
Houselander’s writings, including The Reed of God and The Passion of the Infant Christ, reflect her unique ability to connect the mysteries of faith with the challenges of ordinary living. Known for her poetic prose and love for the sacraments, she emphasized the importance of seeing Christ in others and living a life transformed by His love. Her legacy endures as a voice of compassion and hope, calling readers to embrace the beauty of God’s presence in the world.
Here are a few of Caryll Houselander’s books:
Day 1: Christ’s Dependence and Our Advent – From the writings of Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Podcasts
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Day 1: Christ’s Dependence and Our Advent
“By his own will Christ was dependent on Mary during Advent: he was absolutely helpless; he could go nowhere but where she chose to take him; he could not speak; her breathing was his breath; his heart beat in the beating of her heart…. In the seasons of our Advent – waking, working, eating, sleeping, being – each breath is a breathing of Christ into the world.”
Commentary: Caryll Houselander reflects on the profound mystery of Christ’s dependence on Mary during Advent. By His own will, the all-powerful God chose to be utterly vulnerable and reliant on her. This self-giving humility exemplifies divine love and invites us to ponder how our own lives, in their simplest moments, might echo this mystery. Houselander suggests that in our daily activities—our “seasons of Advent”—each breath we take is an opportunity to bring Christ’s presence into the world.
Personal Reflection: Today, consider each task, each interaction, as a moment where you can breathe Christ into your surroundings. How might you, like Mary, be a vessel for His presence in the seemingly ordinary aspects of your life?
Caryll Houselander, Marie Anne Mayeski (1991). “A Rocking-Horse Catholic: A Caryll Houselander Reader”, p.73, Rowman & Littlefield
For more reflections visit:
Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts
Image © Trinity Icons / Joseph M. Malham
Image used with permission
To purchase your own copy, visit Trinity Icons
