Prayer and the Christian Mystic
When I was a child, prayer was simple. After all, there were two to choose from: during the day, you said, "Our Father who art in heaven...." and in the evening it was, "Now I lay me down to sleep...."
But prayer is a spiritual tool with far more to it than many imagine. There are techniques and approaches you may not be familiar with, so this month's The ChristianMystics is a look at how you can deepen your spiritual practice by better understanding prayer.
How does one define prayer? For most people, it may seem simple -- prayer is talking to God. But then what about Centering or Contemplative Prayer which may consist of only one word? Prayer is unscientific, right? Then why are there studies being done that show there is, indeed, a remarkable force in effect?
Prayer is a fascinating topic and we'll do our best to get you started in terms of understanding the possibilities.
Centering Prayer. Those of you who have read The Christian Mystics are probably aware of the wonderful classic spiritual work, The Cloud of Unknowing. Several people have updated the approach to the form of prayer that is found in The Cloud. more >>
You can also see some contemplations on contemplation. more >>
The Rosary. Chances are, most nonCatholics have some vague idea of how the Rosary can be used as a prayer tool and method. The chances are also good that many Catholics have a vague idea as well! We offer a powerful tradition within Christianity, complete with a "Virtual Rosary" for your use. more >>
Prayers are the food of the soul, they open the door to Heaven and they lead us to God. |
The Jesus Prayer is investigated by a Christian Mystic. more >>
The Way of the Pilgrim by an anonymous traveller in Russia during the last century is a spiritual classic. Take a moment to read a short excerpt. more >>
Verbal Prayer is, of course, the prayer that most Christians are familiar with. Does God hear our prayers? Why is it we don't feel they've been answered? How does one pray? more >>
Pray without ceasing pray in the Spirit, says St. Paul. |
Science and Prayer. Larry Dossey has spent the last few years looking at the scientific studies of prayer. If you haven't read his books, including Healing Words, you're missing something very, very powerful and special. more >>
Pray with your mind, but also pray in the Spirit 1 Cor 14:15 |
Lectio Divina is the most traditional way of cultivating friendship with Christ. It is a way of listening to the texts of scripture as if we were in conversation with Christ and he was suggesting the topics of conversation.
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