Diffusions :: Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools

Prayer is not a soft place to lay our heads or a workout routine for burning spiritual fat. It’s a wild, unpredictable adventure that only those brave enough to strip themselves of artificial identities, get the wind completely knocked out of them a time or two, and see beauty in mystery will ever take. Proceed with caution. Prayer is not for the faint of heart.

— from the Introduction of Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Tyler Staton

This book discussion will explore Tyler Staton’s book Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools: An Invitation to the Wonder and Mystery of Prayer. In this weekly journey, our group will meet via 1 1/2 hour Zoom sessions, Thursdays, 6-7:30 pm (Pacific) 9-10:30 pm (Eastern), to share thoughts and impressions of each chapter.

Discussion prompts will be provided on Tuesdays for the week’s discussion. Each meeting will involve a brief prayer/reflection, a review of ground rules, opportunities to share thoughts from the previous week, a tie to the Rule of St. Benedict, and a facilitated group discussion.

Commitment to the weekly reading is essential as is a commitment to attending and sharing in the weekly Zoom sessions. This program is a discussion rather than a lecture. The quality comes from your willingness to participate in the conversation.

Note: Please obtain a copy of Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools: An Invitation to the Wonder and Mystery of Prayer by Tyler Staton before the May 1st session.

Diffusions offers online programs to further opportunities for prayer, learning, community, and spiritual growth from a Benedictine perspective. We look forward to bringing Wisdom from the Center to you, wherever you are.