The Contemplative Path
An academic exploration into the origins, practices, and global impact of the World Community for Christian Meditation, a movement fostering contemplative Christian prayer.
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About the WCCM
A Global Community
The World Community for Christian Meditation (WCCM) is a registered charity established in 1991. Its primary mission is to promote a distinct form of Christian meditation, a practice meticulously developed by the Benedictine monk and priest John Main, OSB.
The Core Practice
The WCCM centers its teachings on a contemplative prayer method rooted in the tradition of the early Christian desert monks. This practice involves the silent, contemplative repetition of a sacred word or mantra, fostering a deep connection with the divine.
Mission and Vision
The organization seeks to make the practice of contemplative prayer accessible to all Christians, regardless of their tradition or background. It aims to foster spiritual growth, peace, and interreligious dialogue through the shared experience of meditation.
Founders and Leadership
John Main: The Visionary
The foundation of the WCCM rests upon the teachings of John Main (OSB), a Benedictine monk and priest. Main developed this specific meditative practice based on his spiritual experiences and studies, drawing parallels between the ancient wisdom of the Desert Fathers, particularly John Cassian, and the meditative techniques he encountered during his time in Kuala Lumpur.
Laurence Freeman: The Successor
Currently, the WCCM is guided by Fr. Laurence Freeman, OSB. A student of John Main, Freeman is also a Benedictine monk of the Olivetan Congregation. He continues to lead the community, expanding its reach and deepening its engagement with contemplative traditions worldwide.
The Practice of Meditation
Silent Contemplation
The core of the WCCM's practice is silent, contemplative meditation. This involves sitting quietly and focusing on a single, sacred word or phrase, often referred to as a mantra. This practice is designed to quiet the mind and open the heart to the presence of God.
Roots in Tradition
John Main's approach is deeply rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition, particularly the teachings of the Desert Fathers like John Cassian. This tradition emphasizes the importance of interior prayer and direct experience of God, moving beyond discursive thought.
Universal Application
While rooted in Christianity, the practice is presented as a universal form of prayer accessible to all Christians. The WCCM emphasizes that the method transcends denominational boundaries, fostering unity and shared spiritual experience.
Global Reach
A Worldwide Network
As of 2014, the World Community for Christian Meditation had grown to encompass approximately 110,000 members. This extensive network spans across more than 100 countries, demonstrating the widespread appeal and application of its contemplative practice.
Interreligious Dialogue
The WCCM actively engages in promoting peace and understanding through interreligious dialogue. This commitment is exemplified by events such as the annual John Main Seminar, which has hosted distinguished speakers from various spiritual traditions, including the 14th Dalai Lama.
Key Centers & Initiatives
Georgetown University Collaboration
In 2005, the John Main Center for Meditation and Interreligious Dialogue was established at Georgetown University. This initiative, a collaboration with the WCCM, underscores the organization's commitment to academic study and interfaith engagement in contemplative practices.
Bonnevaux Abbey Project
The WCCM is currently undertaking the significant renovation of the former Cistercian abbey of Bonnevaux, located in Marรงay, France. The organization acquired this historic site in 2017, envisioning it as a center for meditation, spiritual renewal, and contemplative living.
Organizational Structure
Legal and Charitable Status
The World Community for Christian Meditation operates as a registered charity. Its legal status as a charity underscores its non-profit nature and its dedication to serving the public good through spiritual and educational outreach.
Headquarters
The organization's headquarters are situated at St Mark's Church, Myddelton Square, London, EC1R 1XX. This location serves as the administrative and operational hub for the WCCM's global activities.
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References
References
- Freeman, Laurence & Reynolds, Stefan (eds) (2014). John Main: The Expanding Vision, Canterbury Press Norwich
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not spiritual guidance. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional spiritual counsel, theological study, or personal prayer practice. Always consult with qualified spiritual advisors or refer to established religious texts and traditions for guidance.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.