← [[session-04-f1a|Foundation of Prayer (continued)]] | [[formation-I-a-handbook|Table of Contents]] | [[session-06-f1a|Vocal and Mental Prayer]] → # Fundamental Attitudes and Convictions Necessary for Growth in Prayer “Look not at the imperfections of others, keep silence, and have continual converse with God. These three things will uproot great imperfections from the soul and make it the mistress of great virtues.” — St John of the Cross Required Reading: The Way of Perfection chapters 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23. Additional Reading: WP Study Edition Glossary – Determination, pg. 504 Explanatory note: In sessions three and four, the foundation of prayer (charity, detachment, and humility) was discussed within the context of creating an atmosphere that is favorable to the life of prayer. In this session, humility, perseverance and other virtues are discussed within the context of our attitude and convictions that are necessary for growth in prayer. Essential Points to Discuss: • One should always take the lowest place, for this is what the Lord told us to do (17:1). • Contemplation is a gift from God. “What I am saying is that this is not a matter of your choosing but of the Lord’s” (17:7). Don’t concern yourself in receiving favors in prayer. • Contemplation and suffering: “…contemplatives do not bear a lighter cross… I know both paths and I know clearly … if He didn’t give that food with its delights, these persons wouldn’t be able to endure the trials” (18:1). • Continue practicing the virtues of humility and perseverance. “...they must keep the flag of humility raised and suffer all the blows they receive without returning any… Contemplatives must be careful about what they are doing for if one lets go of the flag the battle will be lost” (18:5). • Begin the practice of prayer with great determination. “They must have a great and very determined determination to persevere until reaching the end…” (21:2). Assigned Meditative Reading (choose one per week): • Luke 14:7-14 – the lowest place • 1Cor 1:25-31 – weakness and strength • 1Cor 2:6-16 – understanding • Matthew 15:21-28 – humility and perseverance in prayer • Matthew 20:20-28 – can you drink of the cup? • Philippians. 2:5-11 – imitating Christ’s humility • Luke 1:26-38 – “Let it be done to me as You say.” • Philippians 3:12-16 – perseverance 15 --- **Source:** Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites, *Formation I Year A: The Way of Perfection* (US National Formation Program, 2024).