A Meditation on Givenness

Saint John Paul II's Meditation on Givenness was never published during the Holy Father's lifetime, and even today remains unknown in most languages. In it, he weaves together essential themes of his pontificate, including God's plan for human love, the theology of the body, the dignity of womanhood, and each person's call find oneself through a sincere gift of self. As the title indicates, the text is intended to be read as a meditation. Like a choice wine, the reflections ought to be savored rather than consumed in haste. In it, readers will discover a synthesis of the Holy Father's thought that is unparalleled in its simplicity and beauty.