Sister Thorn and Catholic Mysticism in Modern America
Book Description
In 1917, a Manhattan woman named Margaret Reilly experienced a profound spiritual phenomenon that would reshape her entire existence. While preparing an ordinary dinner, she felt an intense pain and witnessed what she believed to be Christ's crucifix appearing in blood upon her skin. This mystical encounter launched her into a religious life as Sister Mary of the Crown of Thorns, where she would spend decades in a convent, reportedly bearing the sacred wounds of Christ.
Paula Kane presents this remarkable true story as a window into the hidden world of American Catholic mysticism during the twentieth century. Through careful examination of testimonies from church officials, medical professionals, journalists, and everyday believers, Kane reveals how mystical experiences continued to flourish in modern America, even as the nation moved away from traditional religious practices.
Set against the backdrop of post-World War I America, this compelling narrative explores how the war's aftermath influenced American Christianity and Catholic identity. Sister Thorn's extraordinary life represents a pivotal moment when American Catholics began transitioning from Old World devotional practices toward a more confident engagement with contemporary society.
Drawing insights from medicine, anthropology, and gender studies, Kane offers readers a thoughtful exploration of how spiritual phenomena intersect with cultural change. This fascinating account illuminates the enduring power of mystical experience in shaping both individual lives and broader religious communities in twentieth-century America.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 313 pages
What You'll Discover
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