Tag: spirituality

New Homily: Listen

by Derek Michael Larson, posted in Uncategorized

Find the full text of the homily here.

Questions for Reflection

  1. How do I typically respond during moments of silence in my prayer life? Do I feel the need to fill the silence with words, or can I simply be present?
  2. In what ways do I try to control or domesticate my experiences with God? How might I let go of this impulse and invite a deeper sense of trust?
  3. What distractions or internal chatter prevent me from fully listening to God? How can I create a more peaceful environment for myself to hear His voice?
  4. As I prepare for Lent, what specific practices or habits can I adopt to cultivate silence and listening in my daily life?
  5. How might dedicating time to simply be present with God, without the need to do or say anything, transform my relationship with Him?

Resources for Further Reflection

My personal practice of silence is called Centering Prayer. Here are some resources where you can learn more.

Book: Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening by Cynthia Bourgeault

In Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, Cynthia Bourgeault introduces readers to a simple yet profound prayer practice designed to deepen one’s relationship with God through silent contemplation. Aimed at those unfamiliar with contemplative prayer, this accessible guide explains how to engage in Centering Prayer, encouraging parishioners to quiet their minds and open their hearts to divine presence. Through practical insights and gentle guidance, Bourgeault invites readers to embark on a transformative journey of inner stillness and spiritual awakening, enhancing their faith and connection with God.

Book: Open Mind, Open Heart by Thomas Keating

In Open Mind, Open Heart, Thomas Keating (the spiritual father of this practice) offers an accessible introduction to Centering Prayer, a method of silent prayer that invites individuals to deepen their relationship with God. Through clear guidance and practical insights, Keating shares the principles of this contemplative practice, helping readers to quiet their thoughts and open their hearts to God’s presence. This book serves as both a thoughtful exploration of the spiritual journey and a gentle encouragement for those seeking to experience the transformative power of silence and stillness in their prayer life.

Website: Contemplative Outreach

Contemplative Outreach is a dedicated organization focused on promoting the practice of Centering Prayer, a method of silent prayer that opens individuals to a deeper relationship with God. The website serves as a rich resource for anyone interested in exploring this transformative spiritual practice.

Visitors to the Contemplative Outreach website can find a wealth of materials, including:

  • Introductory Resources: These include guides and articles that explain the principles of Centering Prayer, making it accessible for those new to the practice.
  • Training Opportunities: The site offers information on workshops, retreats, and online courses designed to help individuals deepen their understanding and experience of contemplative prayer.
  • Books and Publications: A curated selection of literature, including works by renowned authors in the contemplative tradition, provides further insights into Centering Prayer and its spiritual benefits.
  • Community Engagement: The website fosters a sense of community among practitioners, featuring group prayer opportunities, forums, and local chapters where individuals can connect and practice together.
  • Meditation Resources: Visitors can access guided meditations, audio recordings, and other tools that support silent contemplation and enhance one’s prayer journey.

New Homily and More: The Cross We Carry

by Derek Michael Larson, posted in Uncategorized

Find the full text of the homily here.

Questions for Reflection

  1. Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” An extension of that question is this: What does the symbol of the cross mean to you? Is it protection? A badge? A reminder? A scandal? A symbol of status? A symbol of humility? What does it mean to you?
  2. What pain in your life are you being called to acknowledge? What does it mean to take it up and follow Jesus?
  3. What pain in the world are you being called to acknowledge? What does it mean to walk beside those in pain as they carry their cross?

Resources for Further Reflection

Book: The Universal Christ: How a Forgotten Reality Can Change Everything We See, Hope for, and Believe by Richard Rohr

Richard Rohr is a Franciscan, Catholic Priest who writes a lot about spirituality and the Franciscan tradition. In this book, Rohr writes about how the notion of Christ is much bigger than we often recognize. He also spends some time talking about the cross and the crucifixion. In chapter twelve he writes a beautiful meditation about the cross as the place to acknowledge our suffering and be seen by God.

Song: “Come, All Who Are Weary” by the Porter’s Gate

The same Jesus who said, “Take up your cross and follow me” is the one who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This week’s sermon has really been a wrestling of the tension between these two sayings of Jesus. What if they aren’t so opposite as they seem? Listen to this song from my favorite music group and let the words of Jesus wash over you.

Religious Jewelry: Tau Franciscan Cross Necklace

Here is an example of a Franciscan cross similar to the one we used on our pilgrimage. If you don’t have a cross necklace, perhaps its time to get a simple one like this to remember that your pain is seen by God.