Twelve Years in a Monastery

By: Joseph McCabe

"Twelve Years in a Monastery" is a compelling and candid autobiographical account by Joseph McCabe, detailing his personal journey through the rigors and realities of monastic life. As a former member of the Franciscan Order, McCabe provides an insider's perspective on the internal workings of the Catholic Church during the late 19th century. The work explores the psychological and spiritual challenges of asceticism, the intellectual struggles that lead to a crisis of faith, and the ultimate decision to leave the priesthood in pursuit of rationalism and secular thought.

Beyond a mere memoir, the book serves as a critical examination of religious institutions and the monastic system. McCabe's narrative is marked by its clarity and intellectual honesty, offering readers a rare glimpse into the daily routines, disciplines, and contradictions found behind monastery walls. By chronicling his transition from a devoted monk to a prominent critic of organized religion, "Twelve Years in a Monastery" remains a significant historical document for those interested in the sociology of religion, the history of secularism, and the personal quest for intellectual freedom.

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1026053056
• ISBN13: 9781026053058
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 262 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.2" x 0.6" x 6.1"