The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Day 347: Contemplative Prayer (2024)

Dec 12, 2024

Discover the beauty of contemplative prayer as an intimate dialogue with Jesus. Fr. Mike emphasizes its simplicity and the importance of dedicating time to deepen this connection. Through the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila, understand how this form of prayer serves as a gift and a covenant. Explore how it contrasts with other practices, focusing on a silent gaze fixed on the divine. Embrace the journey into this unique spiritual intimacy, enriching your relationship with God.

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Quick takeaways

Contemplative prayer is an intimate dialogue with God, emphasizing the simplicity of being present and nurturing a personal relationship with Him.

Establishing a routine for contemplative prayer necessitates a deliberate commitment and the ability to persist through spiritual dryness and life’s challenges.

Deep dives

Understanding Contemplative Prayer

Contemplative prayer is defined as an intimate and personal dialogue with God, likened to a close sharing between friends. St. Teresa of Avila emphasizes that it involves taking frequent time alone with the God who loves us, seeking to deepen our relationship with Him. This approach to prayer is not about complexity but rather about the simplicity of being present with God, recognizing that our hearts are made for such a connection. It underscores the idea that anyone can engage in contemplative prayer, regardless of their situation, and that this form of prayer is a fundamental aspect of human purpose.

Understanding Contemplative Prayer: A Journey into Divine Intimacy

19min

In contemplative prayer, we seek Jesus. As St. Teresa of Avila put it, contemplative prayer “is nothing else than a close sharing between friends.” The Catechism tells us this form of prayer is a gift, a covenant, and a communion. Further, it is a silent gaze “fixed on Jesus.” In this episode, Fr. Mike helps us better understand this intimate form of prayer. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2709-2724.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

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