I made my rites in 2004 at Ghost Ranch, and at Richard Rohr and Stephen Picha’s request (Stephen was the former executive director of the Center for Action and Contemplation and M.A.L.Es coordinator). I returned the next 2 years as a team member who did the Grief Talk on Day 3. It was both a formative and transformative experience for me. More on that a bit later but first some further background.

When it comes to contemplative prayer, I am merely just a beginner. After being introduced to it only a few years ago, I still have much to learn (and unlearn). Even though few if any words are uttered, the practicing of this type of prayer is difficult. I think in part it's because of the challenge it is to stay in the moment, dismissing everything else, so we can “be” in God’s presence…

Since my first theology class as a college student, I was fascinated with God’s title as the Ultimate Reality. Reality will never be clearer than when we meet God face to face; you see, there is no higher court to take our case to. (But there is no more loving a Judge!)…