Catholic Spiritual Practices

Presented in partnership with the Church in the 21st Century Center (C21), Boston College, this five-part series touches on various aspects of Catholic spiritual practice. The first four segments are straightforward mini-lectures accompanied by occasional graphic inserts. Dr. Jane Regan looks at hospitality as a Christian virtue, focusing on works of mercy; Colleen M. Griffith addresses the nature of spirituality and discusses how the different Christian branches reflect the faith of the believer; Fr. Casey Beaumier, S.J., talks about the meaning of discernment—i.e., recognizing oneself as a child of God and acting accordingly; and Kathy Hendricks identifies five elements—storytelling, ritual, forgiveness, gratitude, and “Sabbath time”—that particularly pertain to families. The final segment is a conversation between Thomas Groome, director of C21, and Matt Weber on the nature of prayer and the various approaches to it. None of these short pieces probes deeply into its subject (further insight might have been gained from historical analysis), but each is designed to raise questions meant to spur reflection. Extras include a discussion guide. Practicing Catholics may find some of the material here useful. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)