Basil Pennington was another contemporary of Charles whom he held in high esteem and corresponded with. The
Basil Pennington was a Trappist monk and author who wrote extensively about contemplative spirituality and the practice of centering prayer. The following is a summary of his contemplative teachings:
- Silence is essential for contemplative prayer: Pennington taught that silence is essential for the practice of contemplative prayer, allowing us to let go of distractions and connect more deeply with God.
- Centering prayer involves letting go of thoughts and feelings: According to Pennington, centering prayer involves letting go of our thoughts and feelings and simply resting in the presence of God.
- The goal of centering prayer is union with God: Pennington believed that the ultimate goal of centering prayer is union with God, experiencing a deep connection and intimacy with the divine.
- We must be open and receptive to God’s presence: Pennington emphasized the importance of being open and receptive to God’s presence, recognizing that the divine is always with us and inviting us into deeper relationship.
- Contemplative prayer involves surrendering our own will to God: Pennington taught that contemplative prayer involves surrendering our own will to God and allowing ourselves to be transformed by divine grace.
- The fruits of contemplative prayer include greater peace and compassion: Pennington believed that the fruits of contemplative prayer include greater inner peace, compassion, and love for others.
- We must cultivate a spirit of detachment: Pennington taught that detachment from worldly attachments is necessary for contemplative practice, allowing us to focus more fully on God.
- The practice of centering prayer is simple but challenging: According to Pennington, the practice of centering prayer is simple in its essence, but challenging in its implementation, requiring ongoing commitment, discipline, and growth.
- Contemplative practice involves a journey of self-discovery: Pennington emphasized that contemplative practice involves a journey of self-discovery, as we come to know ourselves more deeply and discover our true identity in God.
- The contemplative life is a lifelong journey: Finally, Pennington believed that the contemplative life is a lifelong journey, requiring ongoing commitment, dedication, and faithfulness.