The Center for Contemplative Practice
A Lay Cistercian Looks at Spiritual Reality

September 2021

Four men sit on leather armchairs in a cozy cabin, holding mugs and chatting by a fireplace with cookies on the table and a cross on the wall behind them.

Conversation Two: Just Because You Confessed Your Sins and Received Absolution Does Not Mean the Conversation Is Over—There Is Reparation for Sin

Notice to the Anawim: This retreat may be lengthy. Please stop whenever you feel tired or when a visitor comes to the door, and resume later where you left off. THE CENTER FOR CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE SHARES Michael F. Conrad, Ed.D. A Five-Part Retreat for the Anawim: Forgiveness, Conversion, and the Path Home Introduction There is […]

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Four men sit on leather armchairs in a cozy cabin, holding mugs and chatting by a fireplace with cookies on the table and a cross on the wall behind them.

EX CATHEDRA: Thoughts from my rocker-recliner.

Michael F. Conrad, Ed.D. What Reparation Looks Like for a Prisoner with Bars or a Hostage to Their Own False Self. This addendum is for men or women behind bars, or just released, wondering what’s next. You have just read about forgiveness and reparation, the way of the cross, so how does this apply to […]

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Four men sit on leather armchairs in a cozy cabin, holding mugs and chatting by a fireplace with cookies on the table and a cross on the wall behind them.

A Five-Part Retreat for the Anawim: Forgiveness, Conversion, and the Path Home

Notice to the Anawim: This retreat may be lengthy. Please stop whenever you feel tired or when a visitor comes to the door, and take it up again later where you left off. Michael F. Conrad, Ed.D. Preface to the Series These conversations are offered for those who feel imprisoned—whether by the State, by walls […]

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Stone-walled, dim room with warm light and large text: “Come and Rest” above a verse inviting weary souls to find rest in Me.

TO THE ANAWIM: If lonely, ask a few friends to stop by.

I asked three of my friends to stop by today for cookies and coffee. We had fun and I am so glad I just didn’t sit in my chair victimizing myself because I am alone. I am not lonely anymore.  

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