The word “tradition” means “to hand on,” but when it comes to Traditions of faith, we must be careful not to think of this as a static handing on, where that which is passed from one person and one generation to the next is frozen in its original state with no growth. Rather, we must remember that our Tradition is handed on inside of a Mystical Body that is in a constant state of growth, moving toward its final state of full recognition of its union with Christ. As such, the Tradition we hand on will forever maintain its core identity and purpose, while evolving based on the living experience of those through whom it passes.
This evolving nature of Tradition can be seen in our particular traditions of prayer. Even the Rosary has evolved in recent decades to include new mysteries. Likewise, we can see that silent prayer as a contemplative practice goes back to the very roots of Christian Tradition, from Jesus inviting his disciples to “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile” (Mk 6:30) to the “mental prayer” of Teresa of Avila and Francis De Sales. More recent approaches to silent prayer, such as the Centering Prayer practice often advocated in this space, are simply the next step in the handing on of prayer.
Join us for “An Evening of Song and Prayer: The Daily Examen,” Tuesday, September 17, 6:30 pm in church. For more information call Carolyn Hebenstreit at 314.578.0062.