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Phillip_Rolfes
Guest
Usually one is expected to seek out a monastery and find and experienced monk. Remember though, not all monks are created equal; even at the monastery one has to be careful to find a monk with experience. I understand that there have been a great deal of problems with some monks thinking that they have the authority to be spiritual fathers, when in reality they are only beginners in the spiritual life themselves. So the key is to find someone (monk or not) with experience.
I recommend getting into contact with one of the monks at Holy Resurrection Romanian Catholic Monastery hrmonline.org. These monks are wonderful. They’ve also begun an affiliates program that is well worth looking into.
I am fortunate enough to have a good friend/mentor who is a very knowledgeable and experienced Dominican priest (he also performed my wedding). He may not have a particular devotion to the Jesus Prayer, but he still makes a wonderful spiritual father. Also, the priests in my parish are amazing and very approachable.
If you are unable to find a guide, then again I strongly recommend that you simply read, read, read… Especially study the “Philokalia” and “The Art of Prayer”. Those books will give you the most solid foundation. And obviously remain close to the Eucharist and Confession, examine your concience daily, and persevere in your daily prayer rule. Then don’t sweat the rest. The holiest people I’ve known are those whose spiritual lives are simple and childlike. Just be God’s child and trust Him to take care of the rest.