Paul Lachance

This excellent dissertation provides foundational understanding and background to the late 13th c. mystic, Angele de Foligno. The author covers not only background and details of the culture and time period but also the plight and evolution of mystics, which is quite helpful. Then there is a step-by-step analysis of Bl. Angela's spiritual climb after a brief biographical introduction. It seems reading this book prior to reading her own writings is best, but the author includes selections from Angela's visions and explanations of her spiritual states which is helpful. A point appreciated is that Bl. Angela is rare among mystics who tell of their actual experiences rather than writing of the theological aspects of their mystical ascent. The author, Paul Lachance, has edited and written other books on Bl. Angela of Foligno, thus is rather an expert of specialization of her life, visions, and experiences in the spiritual life.… (more)