This is the OLG blog for the One Book - One Parish Lenten reading program. As you read each week's suggested chapters in "My Life with the Saints" you will find reflection/discussion questions here. An integral part of a reading program is the discussion that grows from it. We look forward to your participation. "All of us are smarter than one of us." You can make this come true for our Lenten One Book - One Parish reading program.
Friday, March 11, 2016
2. Do you know anyone personally who adheres to strict religious practices today? What are your thoughts about people who do? Please explain why you feel that way.
No, I do not. I have only read about people who have adhered to strict religious practices, usually self-imposed. I am assuming the question arises from those practices similar to those that were imposed by St. Aloysius upon himself prior to his entrance into the Jesuits. I am not opposed to practices of denying oneself that can help to increase awareness in one's heart and mind for prayer and devotion. However, I don't think that severe denial and self-flagellation (for instance) is necessary to this end. Jesus taught us how follow him. Doing so might mean that we could be called to give our lives in doing so, but he also assured us of a Holy Spirit to help us live that life. Instituting strict practices, beyond prayers, devotions, fasting, and taking His message to 'all corners of the world', is extreme and negates the mercy and joy that God offers to us.
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ReplyDeleteNo, I do not. I have only read about people who have adhered to strict religious practices, usually self-imposed. I am assuming the question arises from those practices similar to those that were imposed by St. Aloysius upon himself prior to his entrance into the Jesuits. I am not opposed to practices of denying oneself that can help to increase awareness in one's heart and mind for prayer and devotion. However, I don't think that severe denial and self-flagellation (for instance) is necessary to this end. Jesus taught us how follow him. Doing so might mean that we could be called to give our lives in doing so, but he also assured us of a Holy Spirit to help us live that life. Instituting strict practices, beyond prayers, devotions, fasting, and taking His message to 'all corners of the world', is extreme and negates the mercy and joy that God offers to us.
ReplyDelete