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THIS, this is the formula which the mind should unceasingly cling to until, strengthened by the constant use of it and by continual meditation, it casts off and rejects the rich and full material of all manner of thoughts and restricts itself to the poverty of this one verse...
and so our mind will reach that incorruptible prayer and this is not merely not engaged in gazing on any image, but is actually distinguished by the use of no words or utterances; but with the purpose of the mind all on fire, is produced through ecstasy of heart by some unaccountable keenness of spirit...


John Cassian, The Conference X, 1.6b

THE CENTRE OF CHRISTIAN MEDITATION
AT THE BENEDICTINE MONASTERY IN LUBIN


The Centre of Christian Meditation at the Benedictine Monastery in Lubin was found by Fr. Jan Bereza OSB in 1988. Not long ago it was the only place in Poland, where the ancient Christian meditation based on the monologistic prayer tradition was taught and practiced. The practice of this kind of meditation developed in the 4th – 6th centuries. The practice is based on the continuous repetition of a word or a sentence taken from the Holy Scripture, such as Jesus, Maranatha, Abba.
Among many invocations used in the early centuries of Christianity, the most favoured one was: “Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner”, which has become the standard formula of the Jesus Prayer. This old prayer tradition arising from the source of the ancient monasticism is still being practiced and taught. For many years, the Benedictine Monastery in Lubin serves as the spiritual home for many Christians who follow the path of meditation. The Community of Christian Meditation in Poland grows year by year. Numerous meditation groups arise. For them, the Centre of Christian Meditation in Lubin is an oasis of intensive prayer, silence and spiritual guidance. The practice at the Benedictine Monastery provides the mediators with an opportunity to experience the mystery of common life. The rhythm of such unique practice is created by meditation, common prayer with the monks, work and meals. The Benedictine Monastery in Lubin has also become an exceptional place for interreligious dialogue.
From 2006 on, Fr. Maksymilian Nawara OSB has been taking a spiritual guidance of the Centre, after many years of the service of Fr. Jan Bereza OSB.