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Miscere colloquia: On the Authentic Renewal of Catholic Spirituality

Journal Article

Miscere colloquia: On the Authentic Renewal of Catholic Spirituality

  • 11
  • Romanus Cessario, O.P.
  • St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
  • Steubenville, OH
  • 2013 AD

The discussion of authentic Catholic spirituality, drawing on Orationis formas, defines Christian prayer as a grace-filled, Trinitarian communion with Christ and the Father, made possible by Baptism, the Holy Spirit, Scripture, liturgy, the theological virtues, and especially the Eucharist. Prayer requires the heart's active orientation toward God and humble dependence on divine gift; it cannot be reduced to self-improvement, therapeutic technique, physical exercise, or natural mystical experience. The text therefore warns against syncretism and the adoption of Eastern meditation, holistic therapies, indigenous or New Age practices, and spiritual programs shaped by ideologies that obscure the Trinity, Christian revelation, moral conversion, or the Church's sacramental life. Other religions may contain elements of truth, but the Church's mission remains proclamation of Jesus Christ. Catholic spirituality centers must be reviewed for fidelity to doctrine, Marian theology, the intercession of the saints, the Four Last Things, human dignity, daily Mass, Eucharistic adoration, Penance, approved devotions, and ordained ministry. Divination, magic, sorcery, pagan practices, irregular liturgies, and programs that conflict with Catholic teaching on marriage, sexuality, or morality are excluded. Bishops hold responsibility for oversight, approved translations or directories, and correction of deviations; health and recreational activities must remain distinct from spiritual exercises. The proposed renewal returns the faithful to Christian masters and to Mary's humble devotion, while insisting that popularity or perceived usefulness cannot justify a practice detached from the Gospel.

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