Catholic Outlook Magazine Ordinary Time Spring Edition 2022
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Looking Deeper<br />
In all the reflections there is an accent on awakening<br />
the senses. They are seen as significant doorways<br />
leading us to become more aware of the presence of<br />
God in us, in our lives and in all that is. The chapters<br />
are focussed on the following foundational themes<br />
relating to the life of the human spirit;<br />
Gratitude and Joy<br />
Emptiness and Fullness<br />
Healing and Wholeness<br />
Suffering and Consolation<br />
Forgiveness and Reconciliation<br />
Vocation and Mission<br />
The pairing of these themes with what appears to<br />
be oppositional movements, enables a perception of<br />
spiritual wholeness wherein as Richard Rohr (2003)<br />
says “everything belongs.” Our journey to wholeness<br />
or as the Vatican II Document, Lumen Gentium<br />
(1964) says “holiness,” is about integrating these<br />
apparent opposites.<br />
In recent years, Lawrence Freeman osb, Director of<br />
the World Community for Christian Meditation, spoke<br />
of this contemplative way of prayer as being for all.<br />
He described those who are engaged in the prayer<br />
of the heart as the new monks of the modern world.<br />
Noting that “some live in traditional monasteries<br />
but the majority do not. Many are integrating what<br />
previously seemed impossible to reconcile – deep<br />
spiritual practice, and conjugal love, solitude and<br />
social responsibility.”<br />
Through our Baptism, we are<br />
all called into this “way of the<br />
pilgrim” wherever life finds us.<br />
Just as the pilgrim travels lightly,<br />
this small accessible book gives<br />
us the essentials to find and<br />
remain dwelling in the heart of<br />
God, thus enabling our inner<br />
divine spring, to continue to well<br />
up within us to the fullness of life.<br />
The book can be used in a<br />
supportive way both personally or<br />
with small faith sharing groups. <br />
Sr Patty Andrew osu is an Ursuline<br />
Sister in the Diocese of Parramatta.<br />
Images: Messenger Publications and<br />
Diocese of Parramatta<br />
Let us care for those who have cared<br />
for us through their lifetime of service<br />
Please give generously to the Bishop’s Father’s Day<br />
Appeal supporting our retired and sick clergy<br />
parracatholic.org/fathersdayappeal
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