Posted on June 5th, 2009 by Dan Burke
Though this blog is primarily dedicated to positive teachings the spiritual life, from time to time there are issues that must be addressed that are not so positive. For in your in-depth review, we have provided links to several articles that address the challenges with “Centering” prayer.
It is likely that history will categorize “Centering” prayer (as taught by Keating, Menninger, and Herrington) among the heresies of Pelagianism, and Quietism and the errors of confusing Catholicism with Pantheism. Though many attest that they have benefited from centering prayer (and have not necessarily sinned in so doing); those who were influenced by the aforementioned heresies made the same positive claims. It is also clear that the fundamental desire of many who have fallen into Centering prayer is an honest search for a deeper relationship with Christ.
However, truth is not determined by experience and intention alone, but also by external objective reality – particularly when the magisterium of the Church has spoken on the matter. Accordingly we have also included links from the Vatican and other faithful sources.
If you desire to understand the truth, depth, and riches of a profound prayer life and relationship with Christ, see the books we recommend on this site regarding true Christian Contemplation and Meditation (i.e. The Better Part, The Fire Within, The Fulfillment of All Desire, etc.). One thing to remember, if we accept the definitions and teaching of the Church and it’s Saints and doctors on the matter, “Centering” prayer (whatever the claims or beliefs may be) is NOT the same as “Contemplation.”
Many blessings to you in your search for the authentic presence of Christ in prayer.
In Christ, Dan
Tags: A Call to Vigilance,
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Posted on May 12th, 2009 by Dan Burke
The Fire Within: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and the Gospel-On Prayer
by Father Thomas Dubay
The Fire Within is a fantastic and engaging work of synthesis and systematization of the thought of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross on mystical contemplation. One of the more encouraging aspects of this book is the truth that the call to contemplation and deep communion with God is one that is meant for all Christians (as taught by the Saints themselves). One caution – if you have yet to read more basic works on contemplation and meditation (and their historic definitions and distinctions) you may want to pick up, “
Prayer Primer” by the same author and read it first.
In Christ, Dan
