Too much talking during Adoration… What is the purpose of a litany anyway? – Part I of II

Q: Dear Father John, I went to Adoration this morning with my prayer group.  There weren’t too many of us, but I always have a feeling that there is too much talking during our Adoration, and I just don’t get the “purpose” of a “litany” (which we pray together during Adoration).  Each time I hear a litany, repeating the same sentence 2 or 3 times gives me feeling of being brain washed.  I don’t see any love... Read More

Self-knowledge and the spiritual life – Part III – Sacred silence

What is sacred silence? There are many scripture passages that convey important elements of a true God-ward silence. One that is sublimely concise is Psalm 46:10: Be still, and know that I am God This passage clearly reveals the type of silence necessary for a God-ward self-knowledge. First, we have the purpose of silence, to know and acknowledge that He is God. Silence apart from this acknowledgment and this pursuit of intimacy... Read More

Self-knowledge and the spiritual life – Part II

In Part I of this series we discussed the problem of spiritual delusion and darkness as a consequence of the lack of a God-ward self-knowledge. The purpose of this awareness is simply this: To reveal the sin(s) that hinder our relationship with God and that keep us from the fullness of God’s person, love, and provision for us in this life and the life to come. As well, we desire to respond to this great love by a life... Read More