Archive: February, 2015

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Call To Service

On Feb.24.15 , In Unfiled by

God’s transforming Word opens our ears to hear God and also opens our eyes to see our neighbors.  When our ears are opened, we can hear the cry of God’s people in need and when our eyes are opened we see more clearly the needs of those around us.  The Lenten journey is a call […]

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The Touch of Prayer

On Feb.22.15 , In Unfiled by

Some of us have overactive minds and it becomes difficult to stay focused in prayer.  For those who have this challenge, it is sometimes helpful to be touching an object in order to have a tactile connection that brings the prayer into focus.  It is like using a centering word, except you are touching something […]

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Meditation and Contemplative Prayer

On Feb.17.15 , In Unfiled by

Meditation and contemplation flow from the reading of God’s Word.  The reading of God’s Word is a “lectio divina]” or sacred reading.  After reading, one is invited to meditate or reflect upon the text, with specific application to the context of one’s life.  This is not Bible study.  Bible study is for a different time.  […]

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Authenticity as Dying, Rising and Conversion

On Feb.15.15 , In Unfiled by

In Benedictine values identified by the St. John’s Benedictine Community of Collegeville, MN,  the concept of truthful living is summarized in this way: We foster an environment for deep transformation of the whole person (conversatio). This environment for authenticity in the Christian life is brought forth in the practice of daily confession and absolution.  It […]

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Setting a Place and Time for Daily Retreat

On Feb.12.15 , In Unfiled by

Having a place and a time for a daily retreat is really helpful in the formation of a discipline and practice.  As an Oblate with the St. John’s Benedictine Community (Collegeville, MN), it is my goal to pray at 7:00 a.m. which is the time the community gathers for Liturgy of Morning Prayer.  I must […]

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