Can you clarify this re. contemplative prayer?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Patry
  • Start date Start date
Status
Not open for further replies.
P

Patry

Guest
Could you share your position on contemplative prayer, and is there a difference between centering prayer and contemplative prayer? So far, what I have read does not appear to show much difference, especially as one reads classics such as the Cloud of Unkowing, the Immitation of Christ, and Teresa of Avila’s work.

Thank you,
Patry:shrug:
 
Hi,

You will not find in any of the Cloud of Unknowing or, St. Teresa or any other Catholic source anything about emptying the mind. Such has nothing to do with contemplative prayer. The object of all prayer is union with God–not emptying the mind.

Contemplative prayer is inititiated by God; not by us. All we can do is make ourselves receptive. Traditionally, in the monastic tradition this is often achieved by lectio divina. See:

valyermo.com/ld-art.html

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top