The movement of the human soul, and human society in general, from its fallen chaotic state towards divine order is at the heart of the Blog of Padre Pio Press. Writings, ponderings, and reflections on this movement of the soul are authored by Fr. Cliff Ermatinger and by the occasional Guest Contributor. The articles and recordings are relegated to the following areas:
Throughout the Month of May,
Padre Pio Press Cordially Invites Its Readership to Join In Saying:
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
St. Augustine, What is This Deep Longing That I Sense in Prayer?
Question 014.
I sense a longing for something that I cannot explain – actually, it is more like a void that can’t be filled. Is this normal?
This is a natural phenomenon, born of your rapport with your Creator… Our natural desire for God presents us with the dilemma of having to change ourselves, and in doing so we alter our relationship with God. Through prayer, we turn to him aline..in order to reach him.
from St. Augustine Answers 101 Questions on Prayer by Fr. Ermatinger.
The empty place at the center of man’s heart can be a daunting thing once discovered; it speaks to man […]
St. Augustine, Where is God’s Temple?
Question 013.
Does this mean that beyond going into a private room, we are that private room? In other words, we are temples where God is to be found?
‘The heights’ it is said, ‘are in his heart, in the valley of weeping’. The valley is humility…Even though you seek a high place, a holy place, make yourself an earthly temple of God. ‘For the temple of God is holy, and you are that temple.’ Do you want to pray in a temple? Pray within yourself. Be first a temple of God, because he hears him who prays in his temple.
from St. Augustine Answers 101 Questions on Prayer […]
St. Augustine, What Is It to Shut the Door?
Question 012.
But what does it mean to “shut the door”?
… to be alone with God in the sanctuary of the human heart, certain preparatory steps must be taken to ensure an authentic encounter with him. Cast out of your heart all sordid desires… greed… superstitions, blasphemies, and evil thoughts. Throw away your resentment – not only those you harbor towards your friends but those for your enemy, too. Take away all those things then enter into your heart, and there you will find joy. .. Enter, purifying everything, lift your eyes to the Lord, and he will hear you.
from St. Augustine Answers 101 Questions […]
