Category: contemplative prayer

WHERE ARE THOSE OLD WEDDING PICTURES, NOW?

Anniversaries are part and fabric of what it means to be human. Mine are no different, and I mark them (celebration is a bit too over the top for me) each year with the sober realization that I am now one year closer to… Continue Reading “WHERE ARE THOSE OLD WEDDING PICTURES, NOW?”

FIVE HABITS EVERY LAY CISTERCIAN SHOULD TRY TO UNCOVER

In keeping with my daily theme of digging deeper into reality using Lay Cistercian practices and charisms, I noticed that there are levels of habits available to me, depending on how deep I go in my capacitas dei and conversio morae (growing more in… Continue Reading “FIVE HABITS EVERY LAY CISTERCIAN SHOULD TRY TO UNCOVER”

EXPANDING YOUR FAITH: Angels

I have selected this section on angels from www.newadvent.org for your reading. I do not provide comment. I would encourage you to sign up for New Advent as a site to use frequently. Angels Please help support the mission of New Advent and get the… Continue Reading “EXPANDING YOUR FAITH: Angels”

LISTENING TO THE HEARTBEAT OF CHRIST

For all the theologies and descriptions of the Scriptures, it can all be reduced to the simplicity of me, sitting in the back bench of the Church, eyes lowered (custos occuli), repeating over and over the prayer of penitence, “Jesus, Son of David, have… Continue Reading “LISTENING TO THE HEARTBEAT OF CHRIST”

THE TERRIFYING POWER OF THE TRANSFIGURATION

It seems that when introducing humans to God in evermore intense encounters, there is always that admonition of “Don’t be afraid.” Human reasoning, and the ability to authentically choose what is good for them, seems to have presented itself to selected humans by God… Continue Reading “THE TERRIFYING POWER OF THE TRANSFIGURATION”

THE GOLDEN THREAD: Spiritual Kinship through The Christ Principle.

Jesus called those he loved and who loved him back as friends. Read this most eloquent of texts in their entirety, so you get the context. Note that Jesus calls us friends, in this passage. He has chosen us, we have not chosen Him.… Continue Reading “THE GOLDEN THREAD: Spiritual Kinship through The Christ Principle.”

THE IMPROBABLE POWER OF THE INCARNATION: The divine archetype.

You can’t make this stuff up, even in Hollywood. The Incarnation Moment is so beyond the ability of humans to put it out of that hat that is so improbable that such an event could occur within normal limits of human experiences. Where does… Continue Reading “THE IMPROBABLE POWER OF THE INCARNATION: The divine archetype.”

A LAY CISTERCIAN’S BEATITUDES

As a result of my Lection Divina, and having reflected on where I am in the process of believing in The Christ Principle, here are some Beatitudes that come to my mind. If you are a Catholic, practicing your faith may not always be… Continue Reading “A LAY CISTERCIAN’S BEATITUDES”

HERESY OF THE INDIVIDUAL: NEO-IDOLATRY

To be clear, this is not a heresy as defined by the Catholic Church, but rather one that I observe to be so insidiously pervasive in society that whole nations and their Judeo-Christian moral compasses have been recalibrated based on a new North. It… Continue Reading “HERESY OF THE INDIVIDUAL: NEO-IDOLATRY”

SEEING JESUS

In this recent Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5), I asked myself, “How can I see Jesus daily?” Here are some thoughts. When I go to Church, I see Jesus: There are many more ways to see Jesus in Church, but I am running out of… Continue Reading “SEEING JESUS”

YOUR CHURCH HISTORY HERITAGE: The insights of Eusebius

Here is an early church writer before there was a bible as we know it. I offer you what I myself read and you can make your own conclusions. Church History (Book I) Please help support the mission of New Advent and get the full… Continue Reading “YOUR CHURCH HISTORY HERITAGE: The insights of Eusebius”

THE INDEFATIGABLE NATURE OF TRUTH

My current preoccupation in my Lectio Divina is on the nature of truth. Having sat on a couch with Christ next to me, my thoughts seem to drift towards very esoteric thinking no one wants to hear or read. It is the nature of… Continue Reading “THE INDEFATIGABLE NATURE OF TRUTH”

THE KEY TO EVERLASTING JEOPARDY

If you are facing the Gates of the Kingdom of Heaven and Michael and Alex Trebek are there, one with a flaming sword to keep out those that don’t belong, what would be the one question asked and what is the correct answer? The… Continue Reading “THE KEY TO EVERLASTING JEOPARDY”

MENTAL GYRATIONS ON WHY WE CANNOT PROVE GOD’S EXISTENCE

When watching the latest movie the film, Wednesday, I had this feeling of wondering why I am filling time watching some bizarre series of stories about Ghouls and Goblins, other than I really like it. Is there more to life? Of course, I told… Continue Reading “MENTAL GYRATIONS ON WHY WE CANNOT PROVE GOD’S EXISTENCE”

FALLACIES THAT TERRIFY ME

I like to watch the odd movie that comes out of the myriad of flicks produced these days. The Harry Potter movies are ones that I enjoy, not because I espouse witchcraft at all, but because it has a remarkable insight into good and… Continue Reading “FALLACIES THAT TERRIFY ME”

CONTEMPLATION IS THE CONCENTRATED ORANGE JUICE TO WHICH YOU MUST ADD THE WATER OF YOUR LIFE TO BE ABLE TO DRINK IT PROPERLY

Heavy title, don’t you think, with an even heavier implication for contemplative practice? Here are some rapid responses to the question of absolute truth (only found in the divine nature). They are linked together unless I get a senior moment and go off the… Continue Reading “CONTEMPLATION IS THE CONCENTRATED ORANGE JUICE TO WHICH YOU MUST ADD THE WATER OF YOUR LIFE TO BE ABLE TO DRINK IT PROPERLY”

NEW IDEAS IN NEW SKINS: Twenty things I no longer do as part of my religious regime.

My Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) meditations take the form of looking at the totality of my life from the viewpoint of The Christ Principle. When I do that, old behaviors that I still practice, have not been excised (not exorcized, although I am an… Continue Reading “NEW IDEAS IN NEW SKINS: Twenty things I no longer do as part of my religious regime.”

YOUR CHURCH HISTORY: Eusebius, Book III

Church tradition is not looking back and guessing what people actually said, but rather looking forward and reading the primary sources. I offer this section from www.newadvent.org for your spiritual reading and edification without my comments. It has helped me. Church History (Book III)… Continue Reading “YOUR CHURCH HISTORY: Eusebius, Book III”

WHY NOT?

To find out what makes humans fulfill their humanity as nature intended, I focused my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) on nature, as in animal nature, human nature, and divine nature. These are my assumptions as I move forward and ask the following questions. Is… Continue Reading “WHY NOT?”

THAT’S THE HELL OF IT: Improbable thoughts about an illusive topic

Perhaps it is due to what I drink in the water, but I have had an inordinate number of short, intense bursts of insights into Hell. Rather than psychoanalyze them ad nausea, I just offer them here. All of my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5)… Continue Reading “THAT’S THE HELL OF IT: Improbable thoughts about an illusive topic”

THAT’S THE HELL OF IT

Hell is one of those elephant-in-the-room topics that humans would rather not discuss. It is easier to dismiss Hell than Faith, although humans know sparsely little of both. Here are my thoughts, limited as they are, about why there is a hell as the… Continue Reading “THAT’S THE HELL OF IT”

FIVE GIFTS THE HOLY SPIRIT GAVE ME AT BAPTISM

When I was baptized on September 29, 1940, I became an adopted son(daughter) of the Father. Naturally, I did not know what was happening, but, consistent with my human nature, I received seven gifts from the Holy Spirit, gifts I still use to this… Continue Reading “FIVE GIFTS THE HOLY SPIRIT GAVE ME AT BAPTISM”

CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICES OF A BROKEN-DOWN, OLD LAY CISTERCIAN

Growing old has its own set of peculiarities that seem to infiltrate my Lay Cistercian Way. Here are some observations from an old, temple of the Holy Spirit. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

LENTEN READING: Sirach

Sirach Pagination 1Do not be a foe instead of a friend. A bad name, disgrace, and dishonor you will inherit. Thus the wicked, the double-tongued!* Unruly Passions 2Do not fall into the grip of your passion,a lest like fire it consume your strength. 3It… Continue Reading “LENTEN READING: Sirach”

ALL THE ROWERS IN THE WORLD WON’T HELP YOU IF YOUR BOAT HAS A HOLE IN IT.

This Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) yesterday was an unexpected voyage into the syncretic world of looking at Lent through the lenses of a totally different venue. In this case, the profile of a sinking boat came to mind. Here are some of my ideas… Continue Reading “ALL THE ROWERS IN THE WORLD WON’T HELP YOU IF YOUR BOAT HAS A HOLE IN IT.”

SPIRITUAL READING

Without commentary, here are the words from the Holy Father, Pope Paul VI on Divine Revelation. I found it quite inspiring. DOGMATIC CONSTITUTION ON DIVINE REVELATIONDEI VERBUMSOLEMNLY PROMULGATED BY HIS HOLINESSPOPE PAUL VION NOVEMBER 18, 1965 PREFACE 1. Hearing the word of God with… Continue Reading “SPIRITUAL READING”

CRAZY ANSWERS TO EVEN CRAZIER QUESTIONS

What follows are some answers I gave to the website Quora.com. I must not have enough to do in my old age. Profile Most recent Michael Conrad Worked at Professed Lay Cistercian3m What is the best way for a pope to say goodbye without causing controversy?… Continue Reading “CRAZY ANSWERS TO EVEN CRAZIER QUESTIONS”

THE SAINTS: Martyrs

Here is a resource that I discovered that lists Saints and their accomplishments and when they lived. Sometimes we forget that these people actually existed way back when. https://devotiontoourlady.com/january-martyrs.html Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

THE SAINTS: The Church’s Hall of Fame

When you think about football, as an example of only one sporting venue, of all the college players, very few get selected to play Professional Football. Still, fewer are selected by the football press to be in the Football Hall of Fame. You can… Continue Reading “THE SAINTS: The Church’s Hall of Fame”

THE VULNERABLE LAY CISTERCIAN: The Achilles Heel

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Achilles%27%20heel#citations “When the hero Achilles was an infant, his sea-nymph mother dipped him into the river Styx to make him immortal. But since she held him by one heel, this spot did not touch the water and so remained mortal and vulnerable, and it… Continue Reading “THE VULNERABLE LAY CISTERCIAN: The Achilles Heel”

FAITH AND BELIEF: Fragments from Lectio Divina meditations

If you have Faith, do you need proof? There are two different kinds of proofs: one to measure the visible universe primarily and emotions and the human condition, as a backup; then there is a proof that is the opposite of all of that… Continue Reading “FAITH AND BELIEF: Fragments from Lectio Divina meditations”

EARLY WRITINGS: The Real Presence

The Real Presence I want to share with you a wonderful resource about the writings of the writers of those in the first few centuries after Christ. I like this because, not only is it our heritage from primary sources, but it bolsters the… Continue Reading “EARLY WRITINGS: The Real Presence”

FRAGMENTS FROM MY LECTIO DIVINA (updated)

Here are some ideas from a broken-down, old Lay Cistercian. uiodg The following is found in what I wrote on Quora.com. Be careful, it is the Mirror of Arisad of the Internet. What is meant by the eternal power of God. The energy of… Continue Reading “FRAGMENTS FROM MY LECTIO DIVINA (updated)”

INTO THE GREAT SILENCE

I watched this as part of my Spiritual Awareness Renewal time. I recommend it to you. Listen, with the ear of your heart. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

EARLY WRITINGS: Eusebius

I wanted to share with you what I myself read about the early church. I offer no commentary. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05617b.htm Introduction. 1. We have discussed in the preceding book those subjects in ecclesiastical history which it was necessary to treat by way of introduction, and have accompanied them with… Continue Reading “EARLY WRITINGS: Eusebius”

NEW YEAR’S THOUGHTS FROM THE EDGE OF TIME

Here are some random thought fragments from the leftovers of my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5). I must admit these are “way out there.” I just relate to what was given to me. The following responses are ones from my Lectio based on esoteric questions… Continue Reading “NEW YEAR’S THOUGHTS FROM THE EDGE OF TIME”

NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTIONS

I have one focus this year, to “have in me the mind of Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 2:5), which allows me to be in the presence of Christ and sit in the stillness of my heart and wait. TEN THINGS I WOULD LIKE TO SEE… Continue Reading “NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTIONS”

THE INCARNATION EVENT: THREE STRINGS THAT SHEPHERD NATURE TOWARDS IT DESTINY

III. THE CORRUPTIBILITY OF CHOICE AND MARTYRDOM OF THE ORDINARY— The effects of Original Sin on three defining behaviors of human nature: sexual urges, the urges of control, and the urges of power. The wages of sin. I hypothesize that there is only one… Continue Reading “THE INCARNATION EVENT: THREE STRINGS THAT SHEPHERD NATURE TOWARDS IT DESTINY”

WAITING ON THE CUSP OF CHRISTMAS

Here are some thoughts from Sirach to light the tree of your life. Responsibilities to Parents* 1Children, listen to me, your father; act accordingly, that you may be safe. 2For the Lord sets a father in honor over his children and confirms a mother’s… Continue Reading “WAITING ON THE CUSP OF CHRISTMAS”

FRAGMENTS FROM MY LECTIO DIVINA: Did you know this about Mary?

Here are some fragmented thoughts about Mary that I would like to share. Praise be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever. The God who is, who was, and who is to come at the end… Continue Reading “FRAGMENTS FROM MY LECTIO DIVINA: Did you know this about Mary?”

CUSTOS OCULI: The windows to the kingdom of heaven

I can remember watching the monks at St. Meinrad while they filed in for Conventional Mass on Sunday. They had eyes down in the process in and out of the Archabbey Church and also during the Eucharist. I asked my classmate, also a monk,… Continue Reading “CUSTOS OCULI: The windows to the kingdom of heaven”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: THE KEY TO UNLOCKING THE MYSTERY OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FULLY WHAT OUR NATURE INTENDED.

The problem with trying to solve any equation is knowing the formula. Granted that the Divine Equation’s six postulates have been answered correctly, there is still one thing left to do. You must use the correct key, the only one that fits into this… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: THE KEY TO UNLOCKING THE MYSTERY OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FULLY WHAT OUR NATURE INTENDED.”

MY ASSUMPTIONS AS A LAY CISTERCIAN AS I COMMENT ABOUT SPIRITUAL REALITY

Assumptions are like icebergs; what you see, hear, taste, touch, and feel and thus know about the reality around you at any moment always has something deeper involved; in this case, my assumptions that you cannot see unless I share them. Assumptions are like… Continue Reading “MY ASSUMPTIONS AS A LAY CISTERCIAN AS I COMMENT ABOUT SPIRITUAL REALITY”

AN ADVENT REFLECTION: LISTEN TO THE BEAUTY OF LANGUAGE

Here are some of my favorite readings by Tom O’Bedlam. uiodg Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

NEW SKINS: Three templates I use for Lectio Divina focus.

On my way to achieving Lectio Divina, I begin with Philippians 2:5 (Have in you the mind of Christ Jesus.) Then, I go to meditation. I have to have templates to help me focus on The Christ Principle now and then. I share with… Continue Reading “NEW SKINS: Three templates I use for Lectio Divina focus.”

CONVERSIO MORAE: It’s complicated!

There are two aspects to my Lay Cistercian life on which I intend to focus until I die. They are: I have assimilated these concepts into my system of contemplative practices to help me approach The Christ Principle in humility and obedience to what… Continue Reading “CONVERSIO MORAE: It’s complicated!”

NEW SKINS: The Incongruity of The Divine Equation

I remember seeing a video of how snakes shed their skins.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmqwcb1fh_0 One of the signs of vitality for humans is making all things new. Animals do it when they shed their skins. Soft shell crabs molt, as do many other creatures, one of which… Continue Reading “NEW SKINS: The Incongruity of The Divine Equation”

HOW TRADITION REFUTES HERESY WITH SACRED SCRIPTURES: Growing deeper.

In the previous blog, I listed some of the references that early Church Fathers wrote defending the Faith against the rampant heresies of individuals who were in error. I took Hippolytus as an example and his writings against a thinker called Noetus. Read this… Continue Reading “HOW TRADITION REFUTES HERESY WITH SACRED SCRIPTURES: Growing deeper.”

THE FAILURE TO REPLACE NEW SKINS: ARE YOU ILLITERATE IN YOUR CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY?

One of the sad commentaries of any time in human history comes when we explore reality around us and find that many people are illiterate in their spirituality, particularly their contemplative spirituality. Can you answer these six questions? Take your time. You have between… Continue Reading “THE FAILURE TO REPLACE NEW SKINS: ARE YOU ILLITERATE IN YOUR CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY?”

NEW SKINS FOR NEW WINE: A DISCUSSION ABOUT OBJECTIVE AND SUBJECTIVE TRUTH

In one of my more adventuresome forays into the world of Internet space, I happened to stumble onto a site called Quora.com. Interesting site where people give questions and invite others to answer. There is a wide diversity of questions, but those Atheists question… Continue Reading “NEW SKINS FOR NEW WINE: A DISCUSSION ABOUT OBJECTIVE AND SUBJECTIVE TRUTH”

THE THREE PRINCIPLES OF DIVINE NATURE

For nearly fifty years, I have attempted to grapple with the concept of God and where I fit into the Divine Economy. At age 72, I finally reached the age of reason when I became a Lay Cistercian of Our Lady of the Holy… Continue Reading “THE THREE PRINCIPLES OF DIVINE NATURE”

NEW SKINS FOR A BROKEN-DOWN, OLD TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

I won’t say I am an expert in anything except procrastination or forgetting my appointments. My Lectio Divina Reflections on Philippians 2:5 have recently been about the passage in the Scriptures, which speaks of new and old skins. Here it is for your reflection… Continue Reading “NEW SKINS FOR A BROKEN-DOWN, OLD TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT”

SCRIPTURAL READING: Sirach

Responsibilities to Parents* 1Children, listen to me, your father; act accordingly, that you may be safe. 2For the Lord sets a father in honor over his children and confirms a mother’s authority over her sons. 3Those who honor their father atone for sins; 4they… Continue Reading “SCRIPTURAL READING: Sirach”

THE POETRY OF NEW PROPHETS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJVBQefNXIw Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

10 TERRIFIC INSIGHTS INTO CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY I LEARNED FROM WATCHING HARRY POTTER MOVIES

This is probably the last straw for those of you who think I have lost it (I never had it to lose). I love the Harry Potter set of books by J.K. Rowling. What a creative mind and certainly an enchanting look at life… Continue Reading “10 TERRIFIC INSIGHTS INTO CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY I LEARNED FROM WATCHING HARRY POTTER MOVIES”

FRAGMENTS OF LEFT-OVER LECTIO DIVINA MEDITATIONS: Spiritual anarchy

Today’s Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) was about the Devil (it seems the Holy Spirit is on a series of ideas about the Devil). Here are some fragments left over in baskets from my Lectio Divina on Satan. Anarchy, using the Rule of Threes, means:… Continue Reading “FRAGMENTS OF LEFT-OVER LECTIO DIVINA MEDITATIONS: Spiritual anarchy”

IDEAS TO MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

Reading Sacred Scriptures is one of my Lay Cistercian practices that help me grow in my capacity for Christ within me. This happens because the Word of God produces that which it signifies. It is the energy of God that I assimilate into my… Continue Reading “IDEAS TO MAKE ALL THINGS NEW”

READINGS TO LIFT UP YOUR HEARTS

While looking at the nooks and crannies of the website: www.newadvent.org, I came across this encyclical that might interest you as much as it did me. Many, most prominently, my wife, tell me I don’t have enough to do. Actually, I like rummaging throughout… Continue Reading “READINGS TO LIFT UP YOUR HEARTS”

OUR CATHOLIC HALL OF FAME: St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Here are some quotes that I use to help me re-center myself on Christ Jesus. www.azquotes.com “Pray, hope and don’t worry. Anxiety doesn’t help at all. Our Merciful Lord will listen to your prayer.” ~ Pio of Pietrelcina “Prayer is the best weapon we… Continue Reading “OUR CATHOLIC HALL OF FAME: St. Pio of Pietrelcina”

THE PROCESS OF ASSIMILATING ENERGY FROM GOD

It is impossible to assimilate energy from God directly without a transformer. This transformer is the person of Jesus Christ as The Christ Principle. If it is true that no one can go to the Father except through Christ, that Jesus is the way,… Continue Reading “THE PROCESS OF ASSIMILATING ENERGY FROM GOD”

I AM A COMPLETE FAILURE

During my self cloistering with COVID-19 and beyond, I have had an abundance of time with which to explore Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5). I find that I am doing Lectio three to four times a day, but they are shorter snatches of time than… Continue Reading “I AM A COMPLETE FAILURE”

FIVE PAIRS OF GLASSES TO SEE WHAT CANNOT BE SEEN

God gives you several gifts to commemorate the occasion when you are baptized. This is one of the most momentous events you will ever experience. Baptism is when Christ chooses you to be his disciple like he did to St. Peter and the other… Continue Reading “FIVE PAIRS OF GLASSES TO SEE WHAT CANNOT BE SEEN”

THE LIFE OF CHRIST

I have attached The Life of Christ, by the late Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. It is a must-read for me. https://fulton-sheen.catholic.edu/bio/index.html Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

THE DEVIL’S HANDBOOK: Possession and Q&A.

This entry is the second in a series on what I imagine the Devil might write as a handbook. They are the results of my Lectio Divina meditations (not contemplations) about my temptations and missteps. This might be Satan’s graduation address to those graduating… Continue Reading “THE DEVIL’S HANDBOOK: Possession and Q&A.”

THE HUMAN RAMIFICATIONS OF DARKNESS AND LIGHT –Part II

One of the characteristics of the Holy Spirit, as I observe our interaction, is being long-winded. If you remember, I spoke of at least four strings or patterns that cut across the physical, mental, and spiritual universes in Part I of the ramifications of… Continue Reading “THE HUMAN RAMIFICATIONS OF DARKNESS AND LIGHT –Part II”

CONTEMPLATIVE THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE AND LOVE FROM SAINTS AND SINNERS Part II

Here are some inspirational quotes for your reflection and meditation. St. Charles de Foucault “Above all, always see Jesus in every person, and consequently treat each one not only as an equal and as a brother or sister, but also with great humility, respect… Continue Reading “CONTEMPLATIVE THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE AND LOVE FROM SAINTS AND SINNERS Part II”

THE DEVIL’S HANDBOOK: Lessons on how to seduce humans.

This blog is the first series on the premise that if the Devil had a handbook to train demons in how to seduce the faithful, what would be in it. Of course, I made all of this up. Still, the content comes from my… Continue Reading “THE DEVIL’S HANDBOOK: Lessons on how to seduce humans.”

FIVE MUST-SEE CATHOLIC MOVIES

These are my five favorite movies. Your list might be different. The Left Hand of God starring Humphrey Bogart The Keys of the Kingdom starring Gregory Peck A Man for All Seasons starring Paul Scoffield Of Gods and Men (Seven Cistercians Martyrs) The Shoes of the… Continue Reading “FIVE MUST-SEE CATHOLIC MOVIES”

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE CATHOLIC: The neverending story.

My thoughts this morning are a reflection of, not only what I am, but more importantly, who I have and will become if I continue to profess my Faith through the Catholic approach to spirituality. I write this, not to apologize (defend) or try… Continue Reading “WHAT IT MEANS TO BE CATHOLIC: The neverending story.”

SAYINGS

Just because your road is rocky, doesn’t mean you are on the wrong road. All the rowers in the world won’t help you if your boat has a hole in it. Mud thrown is ground lost. You won’t break the commandment but they might… Continue Reading “SAYINGS”

SHOES OF THE FISHERMAN: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY

One of the things I like about the Catholic Church is its vulnerability, tripping over the wrong pathways only to reconnect with the Holy Spirit and renew itself. It is a history of how the Church is Holy because Christ is Holy, but each… Continue Reading “SHOES OF THE FISHERMAN: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY”

MAGISTER NOSTER PART I: TEN LESSONS JESUS GIVES YOUNG CHRISTIANS TO FOCUS ON HOW TO GET TO HEAVEN

I. The -s-s-s-serpent s-s-s-seduces the Innocents when you least expect it. You won’t even see it coming. Be on guard. TIP: Be careful what you place at your center; this is your God. Be on guard, for Satan is like a “roaring lion seeking… Continue Reading “MAGISTER NOSTER PART I: TEN LESSONS JESUS GIVES YOUNG CHRISTIANS TO FOCUS ON HOW TO GET TO HEAVEN”

THE WONDER I FEEL IN THE PRESENCE OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

Sometimes words fail to capture what is real about how I feel. Here are some expressions of love for Christ through the Holy Spirit. I am nothing in the presence of the nothingness of God. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email… Continue Reading “THE WONDER I FEEL IN THE PRESENCE OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT”

LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS

These ideas are unrelated thoughts I find interesting. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BE A LAY CISTERCIAN?

The world has seduced us into thinking that everything is measured by how much some things cost. I ran into a similar situation when I had the affrontery to suggest that science is a closed system. The words we use to describe what is… Continue Reading “HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BE A LAY CISTERCIAN?”

LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS: Original Sin

When I apply my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5), then sit back and wait, here is what I received. You judge its value for you. That was a big basket. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

STAGES OF CONTEMPLATION

From a sermon by Saint Bernard, Abbot The stages of contemplation Let us take our stand on secure ground, leaning with all our strength on Christ, the most solid rock, according to the words: He set my feet on a rock and guided my… Continue Reading “STAGES OF CONTEMPLATION”

LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS: What will heaven be like?

Being nearly 82 years of age, the one thought that keeps popping up in my Lectio Divina meditations is unlikely. If I die, where will I go? What will it be like? If my focus is to be more like Christ and less like… Continue Reading “LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS: What will heaven be like?”

TOP TEN FAVORITE: Photos

In keeping with my Top Ten Favorites theme, here are my top ten photos with a twist. They are the focus of contemplation in various Lectio Divina (Phil 2:5) sessions I have used. Photos add richness and a touch of realism to my Lectio… Continue Reading “TOP TEN FAVORITE: Photos”

THE THREE LANGUAGES I USE TO SIT NEXT TO GOD AND THRIVE

To solve the Divine Equation correctly, I must use the correct language. This language does not come from human nature because the questions and their correct answers originate from pure knowledge (beyond our pay grade). To solve anything about God, we must use the… Continue Reading “THE THREE LANGUAGES I USE TO SIT NEXT TO GOD AND THRIVE”

RESOURCES THAT HELP LIFT MY MIND AND HEART TO GOD

Q & A Question: Do I need contemplative prayer to be a practicing Catholic?  Answer. Catholics have a rich heritage of prayer, dating back to Apostolic times. As you read from the section on contemplative prayer, prayer means a way we communicate with the… Continue Reading “RESOURCES THAT HELP LIFT MY MIND AND HEART TO GOD“

JESUS AND I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM: How does one communicate with God, who has divine nature?

It seems that the most complex problems always have the most straightforward answers. Actually, God and I do not have precisely the same problem. Jesus had to learn how to communicate his mission as the ransom for many humans. My problem is to try… Continue Reading “JESUS AND I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM: How does one communicate with God, who has divine nature?”

Lectio Divina Fragments: Three Principles emerging from The Divine Equation

If you have been following my meanderings, I write around a core of The Divine Equation in my Lectio Divina meditations on The Christ Principle. Mainly, I just listen to what is said and try to keep my mental mind open. It doesn’t always… Continue Reading “Lectio Divina Fragments: Three Principles emerging from The Divine Equation”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE TEMPLATE

I use a template to create the exact product each time I make it. This could be a furniture template to turn out lamps that look exactly alike. I thought about the notion of a template when I thought of the Christ Principle, one… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE TEMPLATE”

TEN PRACTICES THAT BRING FULFILLMENT TO ME AS A CATHOLIC

Remember that Catholic is the name for those individuals who share one faith, one lord, one baptism, Unity in the Body. 1* I, then, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received,a 2with all… Continue Reading “TEN PRACTICES THAT BRING FULFILLMENT TO ME AS A CATHOLIC”

10 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT HOW TO MOVE FROM SELF TO GOD

My preoccupation for some time has been to move from my false self to my true self. This transition is a transformation (conversio morae) from being human in two universes (physical and mental) to that being fully human in three universes (physical, mental, and… Continue Reading “10 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT HOW TO MOVE FROM SELF TO GOD”

I HAVE A GHOST WRITER

I have constantly been upset with myself for claiming that the Holy Spirit is my generator of ideas, not because it is not valid but because it sounds so haughty to claim that. No more. I give credit to the source of my thinking.… Continue Reading “I HAVE A GHOST WRITER”

TOP TEN MOVIE FAVORITES: A life at the movies.

MY TOP TEN FAVORITES: Movies What follows is what came from my Lectio Divina (Phil 2:5) meditations. I need to acknowledge Brother Michael, O.C.S.O. and Father Cassian, O.C.S.O., monks both at the Monastery of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, Georgia, for expanding… Continue Reading “TOP TEN MOVIE FAVORITES: A life at the movies.”

TWO TYPES OF CATHOLICISM: A Lay Cistercian looks at the duality of three new approaches to the Sacred.

I must warn you that what I am writing, I do so with the promptings from the Holy Spirit, which are not traditional to my Catholic Faith on the first review but which I consider illuminating, at least. This is just a blog, the… Continue Reading “TWO TYPES OF CATHOLICISM: A Lay Cistercian looks at the duality of three new approaches to the Sacred.”

LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS

The Feeding of the Four Thousand.* 1In those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat,a he summoned the disciples and said, 2“My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days… Continue Reading “LECTIO DIVINA FRAGMENTS”

VISUAL LECTIO DIVINA: PART II

Use these visuals to focus on Christ. With all the blather around issues in the Church, one good way to lose your Faith is to lose your focus on Christ. St. Benedict says, “…prefer nothing to the love of Christ.” (Chapter 4, Rule) WHAT… Continue Reading “VISUAL LECTIO DIVINA: PART II”

VISUAL LECTIO DIVINA: Part 1

I share with you some of the photos I use in my Lectio Divina and other PowerPoint learning events. They make good screensavers. WHAT DO YOU SEE? WHAT DO YOU SEE? Above are the new skins for the new wine (Christ yesterday, today, and… Continue Reading “VISUAL LECTIO DIVINA: Part 1”

WHAT ARE SOME CRITICISMS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH?

I added these to the website Quora to answer one of their questions. With some of these inane questions, no wonder many countries are going more and more atheistic. I don’t blame them, but I offer some ideas that help me with the insanity… Continue Reading “WHAT ARE SOME CRITICISMS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH?”

THE ART OF CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE: THE SIX QUESTIONS THAT HAVE ALTERED HOW I THINK ABOUT THE DIVINE NATURE OF GOD

In my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) today, I thought about how powerful energy must be to create what we know as the known universe (multiple universes is another discussion). These are just the thoughts of a broken-down, old temple of the Holy Spirit that… Continue Reading “THE ART OF CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE: THE SIX QUESTIONS THAT HAVE ALTERED HOW I THINK ABOUT THE DIVINE NATURE OF GOD”

LAYERS OF LECTIO DIVINA

Humans interact with our outside environment by using our five senses and reason to form thought processes that mean something. Language is such a set of signals that we identify to form ways to communicate with each other. Knowing the language is so crucial… Continue Reading “LAYERS OF LECTIO DIVINA”

IS HEAVEN DIFFERENT FOR EACH HUMAN?

In thinking about my own mortality and how it will be after I die, I usually abandon myself to Christ and fall upon the mercy of God to take care of me. John Chapter 17 is an unusually comforting Scripture that I enjoy reading… Continue Reading “IS HEAVEN DIFFERENT FOR EACH HUMAN?”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: From complexity to simplicity

Based on my contemplation of the Christ Principle (Philippians 2:5), I have conjured up a strange contradiction. All reality from its inception (however that happened) is an intelligent progression from what is simple to the more complex. Yet, to fulfill my nature, I must… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: From complexity to simplicity”

INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION: How time evolves using the Rule of Threes.

Among the more esoteric topics for my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5), I consider this one on time near the top of the list. In my Lectio Divina this morning (at 2:02 a.m.), the question popped into my mind, “If there is an evolution in… Continue Reading “INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION: How time evolves using the Rule of Threes.”

PRACTICES THAT COME FROM CISTERCIAN MONASTIC PIETY

I asked the question this morning, “What am I doing now that I was not doing five years ago, the caveat being Lay Cistercian practices that come from my observance of monastic charisms at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery (Trappist), Conyers, Georgia?… Continue Reading “PRACTICES THAT COME FROM CISTERCIAN MONASTIC PIETY”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN I SAY THAT CHRIST IS THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE?

Each of us, in the short time we find ourselves in this existence, uses the totality of our human experiences to probe the depth of what it means to be human. We may not even be conscious of it, but we want to ensure… Continue Reading “WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN I SAY THAT CHRIST IS THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE?”

CORE RESOURCES: Contemplative Prayer

I asked one of the monks about contemplative prayer and what it meant. He told me, “if you have to ask for a definition, you need to do more contemplation.” Although I am still not sure what he meant, I do know that my… Continue Reading “CORE RESOURCES: Contemplative Prayer”

FIVE LIFE-CRITICAL SKILLS MOMS AND DADS MUST SHOW THEIR CHILDREN

There is one shortcoming, I stop short of calling it a failure, of the Church Universal in teaching the Faith to those who are growing in their faith (youngsters or the newly professed Catholics): sustainability. RCIA is an excellent greenhouse in which those who… Continue Reading “FIVE LIFE-CRITICAL SKILLS MOMS AND DADS MUST SHOW THEIR CHILDREN”

SWITCHING POLES I: Using The Christ Principle to row upstream in life

My Catholic Faith is not a philosophy where I have a set of goals I meet or not. It is not a way of life that is easy. Taking up the cross daily means being more human than I ever thought possible. I keep… Continue Reading “SWITCHING POLES I: Using The Christ Principle to row upstream in life”

INTELLIGENT DESIGN IV: Words that contain the power of transformation

Contemplation is a process of what happened before. In the case of just one word, if that word is the Word that is made flesh and dwells among us in the Eucharist, these words are not just human in origin but contain the energy… Continue Reading “INTELLIGENT DESIGN IV: Words that contain the power of transformation”

INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION V: Choices of God that have conquences

We are made in the image and likeness of God. For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with what that phrase could mean. Somehow, I think it is at the very core of what it means for me to be human,… Continue Reading “INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION V: Choices of God that have conquences”

ARE YOU WASTING YOUR GOOD TIME BY BELIEVING IN GOD?

It might seem strange for me to ask a question about wasting my time on putting together a view of reality where God might not exist. Actually, if I don’t ask the opposite of what I hold so tenaciously, then my belief is blind… Continue Reading “ARE YOU WASTING YOUR GOOD TIME BY BELIEVING IN GOD?”

ANOTHER VIEW OF REALITY

I have found a speaker that is compelling, not because of their rhetoric but because of how they view reality with statistics and trends in demography and geography. The speaker is Peter Zeihan and I recommend you consider watching his YouTube. I watch everything… Continue Reading “ANOTHER VIEW OF REALITY”

LECTIO DIVINA: Approaching an awareness of God using a new technique

I must make a disclaimer for this blog. Usually, my interactions with the Holy Spirit have some connection with a life experience or something I read somewhere and maybe forgot. These ideas are entirely outside what I can remember from how long I have… Continue Reading “LECTIO DIVINA: Approaching an awareness of God using a new technique”

Trappist Movie

This is the trailer for the movie and not the movie itself. It is for your information. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION: The Stages of Human Fulfillment II

Humans, progressing from animality, contain all those traits, but something more is at work here. Animals don’t have a choice to progress or regress. Nature dictates the laws by which they must abide. We can go against nature and do what we want but… Continue Reading “INTELLIGENT PROGRESSION: The Stages of Human Fulfillment II”

PROPHESIES THAT ARE TRUE, SADLY.

In this blog, just watch theseYoutube videos with no comment from me. It doesn’t need commenting, sadly. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

PROBING THE DEPTHS OF “NOW”

All of this started with my asking, “What is time?” I am having difficulty with this idea because, just when I think I have the answer, a new door opens with more challenging questions. I have been in the business of opening doors for… Continue Reading “PROBING THE DEPTHS OF “NOW””

IT IS A WASTE OF GOOD TIME TO PROVE THE EXISTENCE OF GOD

I never know what will present for my examination and reflection during my Lectio Divina. (Philippians 2:5). Today, I am sitting in the bathtub (that is how people who are 81.7 can take a bath), and the thought of how ridiculous it is to… Continue Reading “IT IS A WASTE OF GOOD TIME TO PROVE THE EXISTENCE OF GOD”

USING THE HEGELIAN DIALECTIC TO UNSCRAMBLE THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE

Two years ago, this coming month, I made the mistake of sitting down on a park bench in the dead of winter, seeking to be near the heart of Christ and receive energy from the Holy Spirit. All I did was say to the… Continue Reading “USING THE HEGELIAN DIALECTIC TO UNSCRAMBLE THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE”

FALSE QUESTIONS: Beware of these five bear traps in seeking God each day as a Lay Cistercian.

I. BEWARE OF THINKING YOU ARE SOMEHOW BETTER AS A LAY CISTERCIAN THAN OTHER LAY OBLATES OF OTHER TYPES OF APPROACHES TO CONTEMPLATION (Dominican, Franciscan, Benedictine, Basilian, or Jesuit approaches to spirituality for the Laity). This trap is one that the Devil can use… Continue Reading “FALSE QUESTIONS: Beware of these five bear traps in seeking God each day as a Lay Cistercian.”

GREGORIAN CHANT: The language of God

Listening is praying. May the music speak to your heart as you sit in silence and solitude contemplating how grateful you are that the Father calls you son or daughter. uiodg Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

THE SIXTY-SECOND CATHOLIC: Lectio Divina lite

This title does not refer to how many words you can read in sixty seconds, but how many ideas I can put together, linking one to another in rapid branching. No commentary. No opinions on my part. I seem to remember that I used… Continue Reading “THE SIXTY-SECOND CATHOLIC: Lectio Divina lite”

PRIMARY RESOURCES

If you want to explore being a Lay Cistercian, I recommend you read the commentaries of those who existed after Christ and before there was an officially sanctioned list (canon) of books. I use the following resources. https://web.archive.org/web/20180716100726/https://www.churchfathers.org/ https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/ If you try reading these… Continue Reading “PRIMARY RESOURCES”

TEN EXCUSES HUMANS USE WHEN STANDING BEFORE THE THRONE OF THE LAMB

Here are some excuses that people might use when they stand face to face before Jesus in their particular judgment when they die. How do I know what people might say? I don’t. What I do know is what excuses I might make when… Continue Reading “TEN EXCUSES HUMANS USE WHEN STANDING BEFORE THE THRONE OF THE LAMB”

ABANDONMENT: A Lay Cistercian’s quest to love God with his whole mind, his whole heart, his whole strength, and his neighbor as himself.

This rather long and windy title is quite sophisticated as I begin to unwind the various depths contained within the words. First, behind the quote sits the center of the Old Testament, the Shema Yisrael (Deuteronomy 6:5). Not only that, it is the center… Continue Reading “ABANDONMENT: A Lay Cistercian’s quest to love God with his whole mind, his whole heart, his whole strength, and his neighbor as himself.”

REVERSIO MORAE: Ten habits of highly successful people who regress deeper into their false selves.

There is no free will or the ability to choose anything if there is only one choice. Animal Nature has only one choice, that of being what Nature intended as a part of their natural progression. With the transition from animality to rationality, there… Continue Reading “REVERSIO MORAE: Ten habits of highly successful people who regress deeper into their false selves.”

LEARNING HOW TO LOVE

I just dusted off an excerpt from some of the writings I made about my last retreat at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery (Trappist) sometime last February. I added some fresh ideas, much like putting new wine in old skins, so I… Continue Reading “LEARNING HOW TO LOVE”

MY TOP TEN FAVORITE: Daily Sins and Failings

Now you have done it, you must be thinking. Here is a topic no one wants to talk about but actually dictates how we behave within ourselves and outside with others. In one of my Lectio Divina sessions (Phil 2:5), while reflecting on Christ… Continue Reading “MY TOP TEN FAVORITE: Daily Sins and Failings”

FROM WEAK MINDS COME STRONG IRONY

It is amazing what happens when you change your perspective. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

JUST BECAUSE YOUR ROAD IS ROCKY, DOESN’T MEAN YOU ARE ON THE WRONG ROAD

Homily by Fr. Tom Dillon on the scandals in the Church and our challenge to deal with imperfection and sin.   President-Rector addresses Church crisis in the opening talk Friday, August 31, 2018 Note: Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology began the fall semester… Continue Reading “JUST BECAUSE YOUR ROAD IS ROCKY, DOESN’T MEAN YOU ARE ON THE WRONG ROAD”

SPIRITUAL READING RECOMMENDATIONS

I was fumbling around trying to wrap my mind around the “Nature of God” concept when I decided to look it up. Where would a broken-down, old Lay Cistercian temple of the Holy Spirit look to find out about what our heritage is? The… Continue Reading “SPIRITUAL READING RECOMMENDATIONS”

WHAT DO YOU SEE?

A GATHERING DAY Yesterday (Sunday), the Lay Cistercians of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery (Trappist) gathered together to meet with the Holy Spirit and share some ideas about our journey in life and how we each have realized that Christ is walking… Continue Reading “WHAT DO YOU SEE?”

SIMILI EST REGNUM COELORUM

I apologize for brushing off the dust of my old Latin texts of the Scriptures. This means “the kingdom of heaven is like…” Matthew 13. The Old Testament was all about the forecast of the one to come, the Messiah. The New Testament is… Continue Reading “SIMILI EST REGNUM COELORUM”

G. K. CHESTERTON RESOURCES

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/58032/58032-h/58032-h.htm Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

DO YOU BELONG TO THE CULT OF MARY?

The following blog is what I wrote down in my Lectio Divina Meditation several months ago. I had to swim in the pool at Premier Gym in Tallahassee, Florida. A particularly loquacious former minister was holding court in the pool, telling people what they… Continue Reading “DO YOU BELONG TO THE CULT OF MARY?”

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD

Without comment, here is the prayer of abandonment recited by Saint Charles de Foucauld. He and ten others were raised to Sainthood to be venerated by the Church Universal as worthy of our imitation. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon… Continue Reading “SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD”

EVIL THOUGHTS

My latest Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) is a continuation of one that I wrote down nearly six months ago. The general theme of my thinking is The Christ Principle, and stains emanating from that one idea included Genesis 2-3 and its treatment of “What… Continue Reading “EVIL THOUGHTS”

FIRST STEPS AS A LAY CISTERCIAN

There is no doubt about it. When I first began my training as a novice Lay Cistercian, I took baby steps to implement a Lay Cistercian Way that would fit my particular situation in life (a retired, broken-down, old temple of the Holy Spirit).… Continue Reading “FIRST STEPS AS A LAY CISTERCIAN”

MAGISTER NOSTER: God as Magister Noster

In the most recent wandering in my upper room (with doors locked), I wondered about how Jesus was a carpenter with his dad up until his public ministry. In my later years (and at 82 years old, I am about as late as you… Continue Reading “MAGISTER NOSTER: God as Magister Noster”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: WHAT IS YOUR MEASURING STICK?

This title seems like it is innocuous, don’t you think? A couple of days ago, in my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5), I thought of Christ as my yardstick to measure my behavior, approach to the Sacred, and obligations as a Lay Cistercian (www.trappist.net). I… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: WHAT IS YOUR MEASURING STICK?”

WONDER IF… there is no god, no Jesus Christ, no holy spirit, no resurrection, no afterlife…

Human reasoning is a beautiful attribute that animals don’t share and, as far as we can tell, no one has but our species. I find t interesting that, using what I know of what the purpose of life is, the same reasoning that compels… Continue Reading “WONDER IF… there is no god, no Jesus Christ, no holy spirit, no resurrection, no afterlife…”

BALANCE IN CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER: SLEEPING ON THE EDGE

This morning at 2:30 a.m., I make my pilgrimage to the bathroom. Usually, when I come back to bed, I do a mini-Lectio Divina with my patron Saint, Michael, and ask him to join me as we approach Jesus to give glory and honor… Continue Reading “BALANCE IN CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER: SLEEPING ON THE EDGE”

FIVE contemplative THOUGHTS IN SEARCH OF CLOSURE

You might have some different ideas about this. Five of my thoughts that I still romance after all these years follow. I guess I never will ultimately reach the depth of their significance in my seeking God in my daily living. “That in all… Continue Reading “FIVE contemplative THOUGHTS IN SEARCH OF CLOSURE”

ARE YOUR MOM AND DAD OR FAMILY MEMBERS IN HEAVEN?

Those still making our trek to the heavens are fond of saying that those around us who have died are in a better place or are reaping the rewards of a life well-lived. Is this a pious saying, or do we actually believe it?… Continue Reading “ARE YOUR MOM AND DAD OR FAMILY MEMBERS IN HEAVEN?”

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU READ: Does the Church teach that we should not seek to convert the Jews?

I was involved this last week in a bit of controversy over a statement in the press about how the Church does not have to convert Jews. As with all the reports that try to cast doubt on Christ and the Church, this one… Continue Reading “BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU READ: Does the Church teach that we should not seek to convert the Jews?”

SIX QUESTIONS YOU MUST ANSWER BEFORE YOU DIE, GRASSHOPPER.

Wait! Can you answer these six questions before you die? How do you know these are THE six questions you must answer before you die? How do you know they are not? This is my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) for today. In any event,… Continue Reading “SIX QUESTIONS YOU MUST ANSWER BEFORE YOU DIE, GRASSHOPPER.”

TRAPPIST BLOGS

If you choose to access this blog from various Trappist websites, hopefully, you will be as inspired as I was. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT

Remember the actor Flip Wilson and his characters.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kaiLcwHXB4 This is one of my favorite comedic routines, “The Devil Made Me Do It.” Geraldine blams the Devil on her buying a new dress. Sounds a lot like Genesis 1-2, where Eve blamed the Serpent for… Continue Reading “THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT”

SEDUCED BY OUR WOUNDED NATURE

Humans have human nature. That sounds like a Yogi Berra truism, but there is a wisdom that belies this simple turn of phrase. The Book of Genesis, the archetypal story of our nature, points out that we humans are not God. Yet, as a… Continue Reading “SEDUCED BY OUR WOUNDED NATURE”

THE DIVINE EQUATION: THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSUMPTIONS

ASSUMPTIONS UNDERPINNING THE DIVINE EQUATION For some reason, always unknown to me, the notion of The Divine Equation popped up in my Lectio Divina this morning. I have been writing down what I have received from the Holy Spirit without totally knowing what I… Continue Reading “THE DIVINE EQUATION: THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSUMPTIONS”

DON’T TELL ME WHAT TO DO

The “Don’t tell me” generation goes back a long way. In fact, it is recorded in the Book of Genesis, Chapters 2-3. The classic archetype of humans is one with fundamental flaws yet whose nature is good. Individually, not so much so. We have… Continue Reading “DON’T TELL ME WHAT TO DO”

LOVE: OUR MOST ILLUSIVE REALITY

LOVE IS LIKE A VALENTINE CARD Love has two dimensions: the mind (knowledge and logic) and the heart (emotion and feeling). Remember when you were in Third Grade, and everyone exchanged Valentine’s Day cards? What did you do when you went home that day?… Continue Reading “LOVE: OUR MOST ILLUSIVE REALITY”

HOW BIG IS YOUR WORLD?

There is nothing more challenging in life than moving or growing in awareness of your environment. The most basic and fundamental unit is the human person, who comes into being with two other persons’ consent and lives for seventy or eighty years, if lucky.… Continue Reading “HOW BIG IS YOUR WORLD?”

WISDOM FROM THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE US IN THE SIGN OF FAITH

Here are some sayings I discovered on one of my favorite websites. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

FOR BEHOLD, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW

What follows is a blog from last year on the liturgical celebration of what Christ did for us in the passion, death and resurrection. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

IS AN ACTOR OR A SAINT A ROLE MODEL FOR WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN?

The recent fiasco over two actors, one of whom struck the other because of an insult, indicates just how much we revere actors in general as the paragons of what it means to be human. This fixation on a celebrity or who’s who in… Continue Reading “IS AN ACTOR OR A SAINT A ROLE MODEL FOR WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN?”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME TO BE A LAY CISTERCIAN?

This topic is near and dear to me because it is me and my attempts to die to self to move from false self to God. This is the Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) I had this morning at 7:15 EDT at Cardiology Associates on… Continue Reading “WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME TO BE A LAY CISTERCIAN?”

FIRECRACKER THOUGHTS

In one of my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) meditations, I experienced a rapid succession of ideas all unrelated. I call them firecracker thoughts because they are explosive bursts of energy from the Holy Spirit. “Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning and… Continue Reading “FIRECRACKER THOUGHTS”

THE HUMAN RAMIFICATIONS OF COSMIC YES AND NO STRINGS

The fourth type of cross-cutting strings or patterns that span all reality is that of a YES or a NO. This is how I dissect all reality into its manageable components, the physical universe of matter and energy. This mental universe is aware that… Continue Reading “THE HUMAN RAMIFICATIONS OF COSMIC YES AND NO STRINGS”

THE QUALITY OF FORGIVENESS

Mr. Putin: Listen to this YouTube. You would have been a truly generational leader, had you chosen what this Youtube embodies. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU NEED TO ASK?

In keeping with my slightly off-center personality, I pose to you some photos/YouTubes/articles and ask you to think about what questions these images raise in your mind. Remember, I am not you; you are not me; God is not you; and you, most certainly,… Continue Reading “WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU NEED TO ASK?”

RESOURCES FOR THE CONTEMPLATIVE THINKER

RESOURCES THAT HAVE HELPED ME ON MY LAY CISTERCIAN JOURNEY (SO FAR) Here are some wonderful, contemplative websites that may help you find some rest for your soul. I admit my bias.  https://www.trappist.net https://www.newadvent.com https://thecenterforcontemplativepractice.org https://www.cistercianfamily.org/ https://siena.org/ https://www.carlmccolman.net https://scotthahn.com https://www.cistercianpublications.org https://dynamiccatholic.com https://www.centeringprayer.com/cntrgpryr.htm https://www.monk.org https://cistercianpublications.org/Category/CPCT/CistercianTradition… Continue Reading “RESOURCES FOR THE CONTEMPLATIVE THINKER”

THE DIVINE EQUATION: The language of God

In my minuscule accumulation of knowledge throughout my life experience, many languages are out there. Almost all of them I have a novice’s mastery, and a few of them enough to know that I know how much I don’t know. St. Thomas Aquinas, O.P.,… Continue Reading “THE DIVINE EQUATION: The language of God”

WHAT IS THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE?

The title, I must apologize, is somewhat misleading. In my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) this morning, while I was sitting in the bathtub taking a shower (at 81+ I have to sit in a chair), these thoughts came to me. I was struck by… Continue Reading “WHAT IS THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE?”

THE ART OF CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE

What follows is a cryptic outline of the blogs I will narrate for YouTube. Contemplate practice is just that, the repetition of going into your inner room, locking the door, and waiting. OUTLINE OF THE ART OF CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE I. FUNDAMENTAL CORE OF CONTEMPLATIVE… Continue Reading “THE ART OF CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE”

WISDOM: The quest to find god

During one of my Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) meditations, I thought about the wisdom that Christ came to give us through revelation. I also thought of how great thinkers have taught us what the appropriate behavior for humans is. In his simple message of… Continue Reading “WISDOM: The quest to find god”

CONVERSIO MORAE: Reaching maturity as a human

At the heart of Lay Cistercian spirituality, or the way each person, each day seeks God by having in them the mind of Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5), is conversion. I share with you some of the readings that have made me ponder my morality… Continue Reading “CONVERSIO MORAE: Reaching maturity as a human”

THE CHIRST PRINCIPLE: LINKING THE VINE TO THE BRANCHES

Here are some thoughts about how the Christ Principle links all peoples to himself. The Coming of Jesus’ Hour.*20Now there were some Greeks* among those who had come up to worship at the feast.n21* They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked… Continue Reading “THE CHIRST PRINCIPLE: LINKING THE VINE TO THE BRANCHES”

AND I WILL DRAW ALL PEOPLE TO MYSELF

Here is a reading that has helped me to experience the lessons of Christ, our Rabbi, our High Priest, our Advocate, and the Christ Principle. The Anointing at Bethany.a1* Six days before Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from… Continue Reading “AND I WILL DRAW ALL PEOPLE TO MYSELF”

ARE YOU ROMAN CATHOLIC OR JUST A ROAMING CATHOLIC?

One of those recurring questions I must keep asking myself from now until I die is, “Am I a Roman Catholic, or am I just passing through?” It is like the examination of conscience that St. Benedict writes about in Chapter 4 of his… Continue Reading “ARE YOU ROMAN CATHOLIC OR JUST A ROAMING CATHOLIC?”

SEVEN CONTEMPLATIVE HABITS OF A BROKEN-DOWN, OLD, LAY CISTERCIAN TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The practice of contemplative thinking is being able to move ideas from the head into the heart. One way to do this is Cistercian (Trappist) spirituality which stresses: silence, solitude, work, prayer, and community. I have used seven habits that allow me to focus… Continue Reading “SEVEN CONTEMPLATIVE HABITS OF A BROKEN-DOWN, OLD, LAY CISTERCIAN TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT”

THE SUBTLE SEDUCTION OF SACRED SCRIPTURES

My Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) presented me with a bit of a puzzle that I am still trying to decipher. As God’s word, bring the words, the prayer, the sharing, the becoming what you read into your inner room (Matthew 6:6) is like having… Continue Reading “THE SUBTLE SEDUCTION OF SACRED SCRIPTURES”

NON NOBIS, DOMINE, NON NOBIS

Read Psalm 115 and reflect on it in the silence of your inner room. Not to us, Lord, not to us. I 1Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name give glory because of your mercy and faithfulness.a 2Why should the… Continue Reading “NON NOBIS, DOMINE, NON NOBIS”

THE INCORUPTIBILITY OF GOD:Like Father, Like Son.

This Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5) came about when I ask the Holy Spirit the question: How is it that Jesus (human and divine natures) knew about his mission and purpose on earth? Remember, I only write what I think the Holy Spirit said. I… Continue Reading “THE INCORUPTIBILITY OF GOD:Like Father, Like Son.”

SATAN AND THE DEBAUCHERIES: The greatest sirens of all time.

It is Lent, the liturgical season once again, and I am drawn to think about my mortality, my corruption of life and its companion, conversio morae. Other than realizing that my life is more like a yo-yo in my struggle to have in me… Continue Reading “SATAN AND THE DEBAUCHERIES: The greatest sirens of all time.”

HUMILITY: The key to knowing, loving, and serving God in this life, and being happy with God forever in the next. (Baltimore Catechism, Question 6)

During Lent, I want to focus on moving away from my false self (pride) and replacing it with humility and the energy of the Holy Spirit (as much as I can take). This is capacitas dei, making room for Jesus in that upper room… Continue Reading “HUMILITY: The key to knowing, loving, and serving God in this life, and being happy with God forever in the next. (Baltimore Catechism, Question 6)”

THE TRUE COST OF BULLYING

Play now, pay later. I would not want to be in your shoes when you meet God. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: A penance of conversion.

For the many times I have gone to confession and received a penance from the priest, it was to recite Three Hail Marys and make a true promise not to sin again. No amount of penance by me can make up for my sins.… Continue Reading “THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: A penance of conversion.”

SHAME ON YOU

Russian people. Don’t you remember how it feels to invade another country? It was evil of Germany, and now you are repeating it. Wake up. Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

KITTY GENOVESE AND THE UKRAINE

Remember the murder of Kitty Genovese and how neighbors would not help her after she was wounded and dying? What is happening now resembles that situation, where all of us, beginning with myself, wring our hands and shout out, “I stand behind you,” as… Continue Reading “KITTY GENOVESE AND THE UKRAINE”

THE WAITING ROOM

These days when I am at the mercy of my body, I found myself in the waiting room of my Internal Medicine physician, awaiting an appointment to examine pain in my upper right quadrant. As I always do, my thoughts go to my Lectio… Continue Reading “THE WAITING ROOM”

OF GODS AND MEN: A Celebration of Love

One of the most impactful movies of my life is that of the martyrdom of the seven monks of Tibhirine (Algeria) in 1996. Here are some of the movies I watch during Lent as a way to lift my consciousness to how others live… Continue Reading “OF GODS AND MEN: A Celebration of Love”

LENTEN RESOURCES THAT WILL ASTOUND YOU

Look up the website called The Prodigal Catholic under resources. Astounding. This is in my top five all-time websites. https://prodigalcatholic.com/free-books-resources/ Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

FLANNERY O’CONNOR: GOD’S PIT BULL

Very rarely does the Holy Spirit throw something at me out of the blue, so to speak. This is a topic I share with you without comment, which would only dilute this concentrated orange juice of Flannery O’Conner’s thoughts. Each of us can mix… Continue Reading “FLANNERY O’CONNOR: GOD’S PIT BULL”

A HOLY SPIRIT DUMP OF ENERGY

I offer to you what I myself received. I don’t know what to do with it, and you might or might not either. I warn you, linking up with the Holy Spirit and asking that the Spirit enlighten you with divine energy is risky.… Continue Reading “A HOLY SPIRIT DUMP OF ENERGY”

LAY CISTERCIAN LENTEN PRACTICES

I share with you the Lenten Practices I do as part of my habit of penance that comes with being a Lay Cistercian. I do not wish you to do as I do. I recommend that you do as Christ does as we prepare… Continue Reading “LAY CISTERCIAN LENTEN PRACTICES”

THE ABBOT’S TABLE

The Rule of St. Benedict has a Chapter that I just read for my spiritual reading last week. It is called The Abbot’s Table. Obviously, we don’t live in the time of St. Benedict in the 6th Century. However, the notion of hospitality is… Continue Reading “THE ABBOT’S TABLE”

PATIENTIA ATTINGIT OMNIA

With patience, you can achieve all things. (My loose translation). Patience is a virtue, so that saying goes. With patience, you can achieve all that you seek. I find it very important to achieve silence and solitude within myself. Every time I try to… Continue Reading “PATIENTIA ATTINGIT OMNIA”

THOMISTIC INSTITUTE

Here is a primary source for those wishing to delve deeper into the silence of their hearts. Be careful what you let into your mind, it may transform you or corrupt you. https://aquinas101.thomisticinstitute.org/st-ia#TOC17 Here are a few quotes from St. Thomas Aquinas, O.P. “We… Continue Reading “THOMISTIC INSTITUTE”

GOD’S VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS

Did you get your Valentine Day’s card from God yet? You should have. God sent it to every human who ever lived. Reflect on them. What follows is the Valentine’s God sent us. John 3:16 gives us a glimpse of how much God loves… Continue Reading “GOD’S VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS”

APPROACHING PROFOUND STILLNESS

Each human being has a beginning and an ending. We experience the physical universe of matter, energy, time, space, all that lives on the earth within our lifespan. It is our base of existence, the physical foundation of our humanity. This humanity has characteristics… Continue Reading “APPROACHING PROFOUND STILLNESS”

VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL CONTEMPLATION

My own experience with Lectio Divina has a twofold dimension. First, a horizontal one is a time I take before, during, and after my Lectio process. This is horizontal Lectio because it has a beginning and an ending, however long that may last. What… Continue Reading “VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL CONTEMPLATION”

ACT YOUR NATURE

My Lectio Divina yesterday provided me with some intriguing thoughts about human nature, admittedly, not your usual morning reading choice. I use the word “nature” as meaning the independent and self-contain category of being. Independent because one is not the other, distinct but joined… Continue Reading “ACT YOUR NATURE”

TOP RESOURCE WEBSITES FOR THE DIVINE EQUATION

There are so many wonderful resources for contemplative practice out there. Here are some of my favorite. https://www.catholicbiblical.org/links www.prodigalcatholic.com/freebooks-resources www.usccb.org usccb catholic catechism www.newadvent.org www.divineoffice.org I have a blog on this website. uiodg Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like… Continue Reading “TOP RESOURCE WEBSITES FOR THE DIVINE EQUATION”

The Rule of Opposites

This morning, I thought about The Rule of Opposites in my Lectio Divina meditation (Philippians 2:5). You probably have never heard of it. That is because I wrote a book about it called The Three Rules of the Spiritual Universe, and The Rule of… Continue Reading “The Rule of Opposites”

THE PENITENTIAL LAY CISTERCIAN: Reparation for the cost of sin

When reflecting on my experiences with being a Lay Cistercian, I find it amazing that I am so much more aware of what it means to “have in me the mind of Christ Jesus.” This mind of Jesus has remained more of a novelty… Continue Reading “THE PENITENTIAL LAY CISTERCIAN: Reparation for the cost of sin”

THE FALSE PROPOSITION THAT JUST WON’T DIE

January 1, 2022, those who gather together to celebrate the death of the Lord until he comes again in glory (Eucharistic Prayer) do so by venerating The Blessed Mother, Mary, Mother of God. Just as the phrase “Mother of God” is misunderstood in its… Continue Reading “THE FALSE PROPOSITION THAT JUST WON’T DIE”

THE DIVINE EQUATION: Mapping the parameters of sacred space.

You will never guess where I received my last Lectio Divina inspiration. I was sitting in my bathtub with a towel over my head, just concentrating on The Christ Principle. (Philippians 2:5) The thought came to mind that when Christ emptied himself of divine… Continue Reading “THE DIVINE EQUATION: Mapping the parameters of sacred space.”

WHAT IS THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE?

I purposefully stumbled on a YouTube about one of my five favorite subjects to watch (Korean Walking Tours in the Snow, Science Shows about the universe, Blue Bloods, Cowlin Cowherd on The Herd, FS1, and surgical procedures of total knee or brain tumor removal).… Continue Reading “WHAT IS THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE?”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: How deep is your prayer life?

My life has been a curious combination of private and public prayer, sometimes created by me spontaneously (Lectio Divina), while other times praying rituals that seek routine consistency as a way to praise God. All prayer, no matter the kind or type, is simply… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: How deep is your prayer life?”

PENANCE AND THE PENITENTIAL PSALMS

In this season of reflection and penance, the Church calls Advent, where we prepare for the coming of Christ in our hearts rather than just have the same old, meaningless merchant’s Santa Claus, I try to remind myself that my adoption as a son… Continue Reading “PENANCE AND THE PENITENTIAL PSALMS”

CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICES: LINKING LECTIOS

After trying to live a habit of Lectio Divina for many years, the steps of Guibo II (oratio, meditatio, oratio, and comtemplatio) become like blinking (an autonomic response we do but don’t think about doing it). So does the idea of conversatio morae, conversion… Continue Reading “CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICES: LINKING LECTIOS”

GOD’S DNA

One of those traits humans have is to judge the many by the one. There is a pedophile priest, so therefore all priests must be bad. There is a corrupt cop, so we should defund the police. We humans are creatures of the moment.… Continue Reading “GOD’S DNA”

IS MARTIN LUTHER IN HEAVEN?

Usually, I don’t play God games (My God can beat your God), and I still don’t intend to do so. Still, this week’s incident of an Orthodox Priest calling the Pope a heretic raised an interesting issue for me, one that is not on… Continue Reading “IS MARTIN LUTHER IN HEAVEN?”

GOD’S DNA: Six times God gave birth

Woah! As they say in Indiana, “Thems might big words for a pipsqueak.” About two years ago, at a Gathering Day presentation by one of the monks to Lay Cistercians at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery (Trappist), he told us God was… Continue Reading “GOD’S DNA: Six times God gave birth”

A WORLD WITHOUT GOD

One of the most interesting YouTube programs I have watched is one with the hypothesis, What would it be like if, all of a sudden, all humans would disappear? The video is worth watching for its profound implications for Original Sin and the natural… Continue Reading “A WORLD WITHOUT GOD”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: Rowing against the current of life

The following excerpt is from a book entitled Profound Listening: A Lay Cistercian reflects on habits that help “listen with the ear of the heart:” Due out in December 2021. ROWING AGAINST THE FLOW OF LIFE The struggle to be spiritual may be compared… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: Rowing against the current of life”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: The enjoyment of the cross in the martyrdom of the ordinary.

This title seems confusing, if not outright contradicting itself. The cross is associated with pain, suffocating rules that take away freedom, and sometimes even acute depression. While it can be that, there is an almost paradoxical twist to taking up our cross daily to… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: The enjoyment of the cross in the martyrdom of the ordinary.”

G.K. CHESTERTON: Orthodoxy

I came across the following excerpt while reading some Chesteron as part of my spiritual reading. No comments from me. I enjoyed it and hoped that you might, too. What follows is my homage to one who challenges us to reflect on who we… Continue Reading “G.K. CHESTERTON: Orthodoxy”

THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: I am the sum of my life choices and how I learned from them.

The Christ Principle is the center of all reality, the purpose for why all of us are. I am not you, you are not me; God is not you, and you, most certainly, are not God. –Michael F. Conrad There is one Christ Principle… Continue Reading “THE CHRIST PRINCIPLE: I am the sum of my life choices and how I learned from them.”

SIRACH: A Perfect Prayer As You Stand Vigil Before The Blessed Sacrament

As I learned about Lectio Divina from Brother Michael, O.C.S.O., our Junior Instructor for Lay Cistercians at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit (Trappist), Conyers, Georgia, this way of praying is at the center of Cistercian spirituality, and so is what we Lay Cistercians… Continue Reading “SIRACH: A Perfect Prayer As You Stand Vigil Before The Blessed Sacrament”

PROFOUND LISTENING: How to listen with the “ear of the heart”.

When St. Benedict wrote his Rule at the very beginning of the Prologue, his warning to brothers and sisters was to “listen with the ear of your heart.” Cistercian contemplative practices allow me to have Christ Jesus’s mind each day and be aware that… Continue Reading “PROFOUND LISTENING: How to listen with the “ear of the heart”.”

LIVE LIFE ONE DROP AT A TIME

In my most recent Lectio Divina (Philippians 2:5), the image of a drop of water kept reoccurring. I stopped worrying about it and asked the question, “What does this mean?” My answer was “You only live life one drop of time at a time.”… Continue Reading “LIVE LIFE ONE DROP AT A TIME”

A LAY CISTERCIAN REFLECTS ON LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL AWARENESS

It is true that, once you begin to abandon your will to allow the Holy Spirit to move at will, you are never the same. You may be older or wiser, but encountering the Sacred is an awareness that you can’t describe with mere… Continue Reading “A LAY CISTERCIAN REFLECTS ON LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL AWARENESS”

THE FEAST OF ST. MICHAEL

This coming September 29, 2021, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Michael. In my case, it is the day on which I was accepted by God as an adopted son of the Father and dedicated at Baptism under the protection of St. Michael.… Continue Reading “THE FEAST OF ST. MICHAEL”

WHAT I SEE THAT I DON’T SEE

In the previous blog, entitled “What is missing?” I provided a YouTube of what 10,000 days on Mars would be like. At first, I was struck with the sheer brilliance of the future vision and some of the milestones we humans would have to… Continue Reading “WHAT I SEE THAT I DON’T SEE”

WHAT DON’T YOU SEE?

I enjoy watching the progress of Elon Musk in his drive to colonize Mars. Watching all the promotional videos on colonization, I find something alarming is missing from the whole concept of life on another planet. Look at this YouTube of a possible Mars… Continue Reading “WHAT DON’T YOU SEE?”

LITURGY OF THE HOURS: Levels of Spiritual Awareness

When I recite the Liturgy of the Hours, the prayer of the Church Universal, I have noticed that there is a growth from just “saying the Divine Office” to that of “having the Liturgy of the Hours be the occasion where I stand before… Continue Reading “LITURGY OF THE HOURS: Levels of Spiritual Awareness”

THOUGHTS TO PONDER

Here are some thoughts which I find compelling and merit deeper reflection. A religion that is not made up of sinful people (all of them) is not worth the cost of Christ’s death and resurrection. I find it difficult to explain how a Church… Continue Reading “THOUGHTS TO PONDER”

SPIRITUAL TRAINING AT THE PARACLETE GYM

In one of my Lectio Divina sessions, the Holy Spirit presented me with an image of contemplative practice and my Lay Cistercian daily practices in the form of weight and strength training, much like what professional athletes do. Here are some of the random… Continue Reading “SPIRITUAL TRAINING AT THE PARACLETE GYM”

ONE STOP SHOP

https://www.ecatholic2000.com/pray/prayer.shtml uiodg Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Mastodon Like 0

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

I am redoing my Lectio Divina on St. Thomas Aquinas based on the input generated during one of my naps (I take two naps a day, one in the morning and one in the middle afternoon). I read Mortimer Adler’s book, How to Read… Continue Reading “ST. THOMAS AQUINAS”

DON’T GET CAUGHT PLAYING THE THREE GOD GAMES

Humans are good at playing games, be it Monopoly, Chess, Basketball pickup, or mind games. There are three mind games that I have identified that are as potentially dangerous to your spiritual well-being as is COVID. It is best not to go there if… Continue Reading “DON’T GET CAUGHT PLAYING THE THREE GOD GAMES”

mis oraciones son tus oraciones

I think I have heard this request a thousand times: “Pray for me.” I ask people to pray for me frequently. What is the meaning behind these words? What are the assumptions that are hidden from others yet are the so-called elephant in the… Continue Reading “mis oraciones son tus oraciones”

SITES TO CHECK OUT

Here are some URLs to check out. I went through the listing of those sites I have saved, ones I want to read again. I share them with you. https://www.virginiatrappists.org/category/abbots-lectio-post/ https://www.giamusic.com/sacred_music/RGP/psalmDisplay.cfm https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12789a.htm https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/ https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/ https://usccb.org https://www.newadvent.org/library/ https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19641121_lumen-gentium_en.html Share this article X Facebook LinkedIn Reddit… Continue Reading “SITES TO CHECK OUT”

DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT

I find that my Lectio Divina meditations tend to group themselves in clusters of topics. My center is always the same: “have in you the mind of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5) This current cluster is about what is important in my spiritual travels each… Continue Reading “DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT”

IT DOESN’T MATTER!

In my search for God each day, I do a lot of “What Iffing.” I should refine that statement to say, “In my search for God each day, when I use only the world as my center (money, fame, fortune, adulation, pleasure, being god,… Continue Reading “IT DOESN’T MATTER!”

ASKING THE WRONG QUESTION

Here are some fractured thoughts that I had while trying to reposition my thoughts to that of having in me the mind of Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5). Too many times, I find I ask questions that are either the opposite of what exists or… Continue Reading “ASKING THE WRONG QUESTION”

the best contemplative streaming and youtube sites for 2021

I recently read a list of “Best Of” restaurants. That list prompted me to think back to the URLs that are sites I can’t live without (actually, the only thing I can’t live without is Jesus). I offer them with comments and in no… Continue Reading “the best contemplative streaming and youtube sites for 2021”

DO YOU STAND BEFORE THE MIRROR OF ERISED?

When beginning to practice meditation before moving to the deeper reality of contemplation, there are some dangers along the way. My latest Lectio Divina Meditation (Philippians 2:5) led me to an unlikely YouTube scene of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The scene has… Continue Reading “DO YOU STAND BEFORE THE MIRROR OF ERISED?”

SEEKING GOD EACH DAY: HOW FAITH IS RIPENED ON THE VINE