GeE 148: Counsel From St John of the Cross

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148. Saint John of the Cross tells us: “Endeavour to remain always in the presence of God, either real, imaginative, or unitive, insofar as is permitted by your works”. [Degrees of Perfection, 2]

Real, presumably in traditionally endorsed places like churches, monasteries, and shrines. For many people, a daily visit somewhere is part of their practice.

The Jesuits, among others, counsel the use of the imagination. Holding conversations with God or the saints is part of a practice that requires only a place of recollection relatively free of distractions.

In the end, our desire for God will surely find expression in our daily lives: “Try to be continuous in prayer, and in the midst of bodily exercises do not leave it. Whether you eat, drink, talk with others, or do anything, always go to God and attach your heart to him”. [Counsels to a Religious on How to Attain Perfection, 9]

You can check the full document Gaudete et Exsultate on the Vatican website.

 

About catholicsensibility

Todd lives in Minnesota, serving a Catholic parish as a lay minister.
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