Fr George Congreve SSJE (1835–1918) was a spiritual giant in his own times but is now largely forgotten. A Life-long Springtime shows Congreve’s contribution to the development of the Society of Saint John the Evangelist, the first community of men in the Church of England, and the themes of his spiritual teaching which was wide ranging and influential in its day. After an initial chapter, the book focuses on the second half of Congreve’s life, after he joined the Cowley Fathers shortly after he turned 40. As R. M. Benson’s Assistant Superior, Congreve offered amplification and important correction to Benson’s teaching on the Religious Life. Personally well connected, Congreve had influence in late Victorian society and the Church. More than a century after Congreve’s death, many of his beautiful writing are strikingly contemporary. Congreve was master of community life whose advice is relevant to all those who strive to live well with each other. He saved his own community from the possible disaster of failed relationships and persuaded the Founder to step down. Congreve lived to be old and writes on what it is to age—not the extension of middle age but the decline and death we must all face. Congreve’s hugely attractive character shines out from his writing—he was one transparent to the love of God.
