by

Lynda Sproles

A Christian Meditation Community (CMC) has been running in our parish since 1995. Unlike other groups, such as the RCIA or the Christian Life Communities, we do not discern through discursive meditations nor share our catholic experience with inquirers. We enter deeply into the very heart of our being, to the wonder of God in stillness, to simplicity and patience. I see CMC as a perfect companion to any other spiritual activity because mantra meditation brings a unity, peace, and centredness in the very heart of God which amplifies and enriches all other spiritual exercises and apostolic activities.

Fr.William Johnston S.J. said that; ‘…we have a long, rich and soundly based tradition of mystical prayer in the Catholic church. However, except for enclosed monasteries and convents, we ceased teaching it in our seminaries earlier this century’. Now, partly because of the sound scholarship and gentle wisdom of teachers such as Frs. Bede Griffith who had his own Ashram in India and William Johnston S.J., an author of renown who has explored Christian and Zen Buddhist mysticism for 40 years and who were both, at different times, invited to Australia by CMC meditation in the Catholic church is thriving. We are reawakening to the beauty and simplicity of mantra meditation.

Buddhism in Australia is also thriving - their temples overflow - we must see that as a sign. A sign that people arc seeking simplicity and quiet. Maybe it is a worldwide response to the noise and constant hype of today but we need to respond to this challenge and go back to our rich heritage. In meditation we ultimately enter the vast silence with all humanity in God, through Christ, and that is unity at a most profound level. It is only at this level that we can truly change our world and turn it towards healing and growth.

We use the 15 minute teachings tapes of Benedictine Monk Fr, John Main, whose order has used the teachings on contemplative prayer of John Cassian, an ancient desert mystic and priest/monk from its beginnings. Then, commencing with a short piece of Gregorian chant, we enter into 25 minutes of silent mantra meditation. There are about 100 CMC’S in Australia alone.

We meet from 7.30 to 8.30 p.m. in the Parish Hall on Thursday (except during Christmas week) and we would welcome anyone who would like to try. One hour once a week is not a heavy commitment. Come along and try it.