Is it possible to pray at the speed of light?

Q: Dear Dan, I recently determined that I would begin praying the rosary regularly and as part of that commitment, I attend a weekly rosary prayer group at my parish. I was initially excited to attend but have found that the speed of their prayer is a bit blinding. They prayed an entire mystery along with other prayers in about ten minutes! I don’t quite know how to keep up. Can people really pray at high speed like... Read More

The Vatican on Christian Meditation and Prayer

Though a complete understanding of this document requires education in Church history and mystical and ascetic theology – on its face it clearly addresses many current popular teachings on prayer that should be of concern to every Catholic who seriously desires to deepen their understanding of what it means to truly engage with God. This document is a profound summary of true Christ-centered prayer and those false forms... Read More

The Pope’s latest encouragement to mercy and spiritual direction

A recurring theme is emerging in Pope Benedict’s pontificate, the importance of spiritual direction. His latest encouragement of this practice is his most significant. It is a beautiful call for priests to reflect on how to more effectively minister grace and mercy through confession and spiritual direction. This important document comes at a critical time of preparation for World Youth Day and the anticipated work... Read More

Should I read books by Fr. Anthony Demello, SJ?

Q: Dear Dan, my spiritual director recently recommended I read a book by Fr. Anthony Demello, SJ. Are you aware of his writings? I am a bit concerned about what I am reading but I can’t put my finger on exactly what is making me so uncomfortable. A: Maybe I should answer a different question first. “What should I read if I want to grow deeper in my faith?” The best answer is, 1) Scripture and the Catechism,... Read More

What does the Vatican say about Centering Prayer?

Q: Has the Vatican ever addressed the topic of Centering Prayer or the teachings commonly held by those who advocate or practice Centering Prayer? A: Yes, the approach to prayer commonly referred to “Centering Prayer” has been formally and specifically addressed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (we provide the text of this important document below). Here’s a little background that might... Read More

The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible – Recommendation

If you are looking to better understand the scriptures through spiritual reading or study, there really is nothing out there that is anywhere close to the quality of this Bible. For a combination of faithfulness and usefulness, you can’t go wrong with this invaluable tool. Here’s the commercial… The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament brings together all of the books of the New Testament and the... Read More

Centering Prayer (i.e. Keating, Menninger, Herington)

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. Though many attest that they have benefited from centering prayer (and have not necessarily sinned in so doing); those who... Read More