The Fruit of Silence: The Jesus Prayer as a Foundation to the Art of Spiritual Life

The cooling of faith is a reality. It appears that we as a country have become so progressive that we no longer need God. Christians are feeling increasingly like outsiders. How do we remain grounded in Gospel values?

Christ himself described the two ways and that few will find the narrow gate (see Matt. 7:14). There is no middle way or compromise with the spirit of the age.

Cardinal Ignatius Kung Pin Mei spent 30 years in solitary confinement for refusing to compromise with the prevailing culture. His advice in the face of inhospitality was this: “Practice prayer, which is the most subversive of liberties; it can never be taken from you, and is a source of power and strength. Train yourself in prayer. Begin now, so that you are a fit, skilled practitioner when the need arises.”

As a Church, it is time to return to basics, The Art of Spiritual Life, an essential component of which is prayer.

The Jesus Prayer is a proven technique for turning hearts to God. It is the oldest form of contemplative prayer originating in the Early Church. We encourage our fellow pilgrims to a renewal in the spiritual life, practicing prayer to keep our feet steady on the narrow road.

“Prayer and silence will save the world.” - Robert Cardinal Sarah