INTERVIEW: Fr Kevin Goodrich, O.P.

Fr Kevin Goodrich, O.P., introduces his new book of daily readings, suitable for Lent or any other time of year, based on the writings of Walter Hilton, a near contemporary of Julian of Norwich …

Who was Walter Hilton?

Walter Hilton was a 14^th century mystic, spiritual director, and writer. He trained in canon law but gave that up to pursue a life of deeper prayer, worship, and service. He joined the community of Augustinian Canons (medieval canons were like monks) in Thurgarton, which is just down the road from Southwell in present day Nottinghamshire.

How did you discover the writings of Walter Hilton?

I knew about Julian of Norwich, another English mystic of the 14^th century, for many years before I learned about Walter Hilton. I first learned about Hilton and his writings in a post-graduate course I took on Anglican spirituality. I was struck by his warmth, pastoral sensibility, and keen insight into the human condition and the ways of God.    

What did Hilton write in his time?

Hilton wrote a variety of works, but his most well known and most influential are, The Scale of Perfection and The Mixed Life. Both are works of spiritual direction and counsel. The Scale is written to an anchoress and The Mixed Life is written to an influential man with familial and professional responsibilities. The two works, especially The Scale were immensely popular in England during the later 14^th and 15^th centuries.

In what ways do Hilton’s writings compare with his contemporaries, including Julian of Norwich?

The Scale has been described as a “summa of the spiritual life.” Hilton is systematic, addressing the beginning stages of the spiritual life through the more advanced stages. His writings are for a wider mystical audience than say The Cloud of Unknowing, which is written for individuals who already possess some spiritual maturity.

Hilton has a more balanced view on the role of special revelations and phenomena than his earlier contemporary Richard Rolle. Julian’s writings are extended reflections on her revelations. Hilton only indirectly hints at his own experiences of prayer and contemplation. It appears that The Cloud author and Julian were familiar with Hilton. Margery Kempe in her book also mentions that she was familiar with Hilton.

What can we glean from Hilton to enrich our spiritual lives today?

Hilton is concerned to help his readers grow closer to God. In giving spiritual direction Hilton draws upon centuries of spiritual wisdom, his experience in guiding others in the spiritual life as well as his own experience of seeking deeper union with God. From Hilton we can glean spiritual wisdom that is rooted in the past but open to the experience of the present. 

How should readers approach your new book, The Greatest Desire: Daily Readings with Walter Hilton?

It should be used devotionally. An individual could meditatively, slowly, read through one selected reading a day. It would be an excellent resource for a daily devotional for Lent or Advent or some other intentional period of prayer and reflection. A particular reading could also be used as a devotional before a meeting or as a point of discussion by a group.

Fr Kevin Goodrich, O.P., is known widely as a theologian and teacher of the spiritual life. He is the author of Mystic Bonfires: Walter Hilton and the Development of Practical Spiritual Theology.

The Greatest Desire: Daily Readings with Walter Hilton is available now in paperback and as an eBook from dltbooks.com and all good bookstores.