CHAPTER 4 – PRAYER AND CONTEMPLATION
“However softly we speak, God is so close to us that he can hear us; nor do we need wings to go in search of him, but merely to seek solitude and contemplate him within ourselves, without being surprised to find such a good Guest there.”- St. John of the Cross
“The determined fixing of our will upon God, and pressing toward him steadily and without deflection; this is the very center and the art of prayer.” -Evelyn Underhill
For the Coworkers of Christ, worshiping God through prayer is paramount. Our approach reflects the diverse traditions of our members, yet it is fundamentally rooted in a mystical yearning to not just pray, but to become prayer itself.
Central to our devotion is the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We honor the historical liturgies of the communities we serve, and we welcome all believers to share in this sacred meal wherever the Lord’s people gather. There are no exclusions at this table, nor do we judge the hearts of those seeking fellowship.
Following monastic tradition, we gather regularly for the Daily Office. Whenever possible, we pray together in a designated space. For those on the go or unable to participate in formal services, personal and flexible prayer times are encouraged. This daily practice transcends our own devotion. We become a collective voice alongside the entire Church, the Bride of Christ adoring her divine Spouse. We also give voice to every creature under heaven, from the grains of sand to the great stars, as they worship their Creator. In doing so, our adoration fulfills the deepest purpose of our existence, and is united to Christ’s sacrifice on the altar of the cross.
Our devotional life is enriched by reflections on the mysteries of Christ’s life and his Blessed Mother. We also draw inspiration from saints, mystics, and coworkers of Christ throughout time, their examples illuminating our path. Scripture and Church teachings guide all aspects of our prayer and worship.
The Community actively supports members on their journey of meditation and contemplation, both in theory and practice. We draw heavily on the wisdom of the Church Mothers and Fathers, particularly those from monastic traditions. Additionally, we provide opportunities for private and group retreats in solitude and silence, fostering deeper connection with the Divine.
For the Coworkers of Christ, prayer isn’t merely a practice; it’s a transformative journey. Through dedicated prayer and contemplation, we strive to bridge the gap between ourselves and the Divine. Ultimately, this transformative prayer allows us to embody the message of Christ, becoming living testaments to the power of faith.
- Scriptural Support
And in the morning, a great while before day, Jesus rose and went out to a lonely place, and there he prayed. Mark 1:35 (RSV)
Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thes. 5:16-18 (RSV)
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matt. 6:5,6 (NIV)