The tension between Ritual practices and Mystical insight can destroy an organization.
What goes on in spiritual organizations has fascinated me for a long time. Sorting out what attracts people, what is offered and why people are at odds has taken a lot of work. And not everyone is interested in finding out. Mostly because they are content with their individual views and beliefs and not willing to see another perspective. In fact, my experience is most people react by expelling the 'other.'
Several areas of resistance to seeing clearly are:
I got mine. Being established in the hierarchy, real or perceived, people refuse to give up their status or perks.
Comfortable routine
1. Like hearing my story. Telling others about my experiences becomes of primary importance. Reliving memories replaces community building.
2. Devotion to an elevated founder. My love of the person who taught me elevated me and disagreeing with me is disrespecting them. Personal growth is diminished in the group as a whole.
Understanding the dynamism of Spiritual organizations, known as pastoral care*, provides a context for discussion and seeing our prejudices clearly. Of course it takes work and that is part of the spiritual journey.
The tension between Ritual and Mystical practices will destroy an organization.
*Pastoral care
Pastoral care is a form of holistic support that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of individuals, traditionally provided by clergy but now often offered by trained laypersons and professionals in various settings (e.g., hospitals, schools). Its core functions include healing, sustaining, guiding, and reconciling.
The Role of Ritual
Rituals are formalized sequences of actions, often embodying core values or sacred narratives, that help individuals and communities find orientation, meaning, and connection, especially during times of transition, crisis, or loss of meaning.
Structure and Meaning: In a modern world often devoid of consistent rituals, these practices (e.g., blessings, anointing, specific prayers, or even non-religious farewell ceremonies) can provide a needed sense of order, stability, and completion during disorienting life events.
Physical Expression of Care: Ritual actions are not just symbolic; they are the physical expression of care itself. The bodily motions of turning toward a suffering person, for instance, are ritualized actions that "restructure in the very doing of the act themselves," making the practitioner a caregiver.
Community and Identity: Participating in rituals reinforces shared community identity and support systems, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles.
The Role of Mysticism
Mysticism, in the context of pastoral care, refers to the experience of a direct, personal connection with the divine or a profound sense of ultimate reality, often cultivated through contemplative practices like prayer, reflection, and solitude.
Mystical experiences emphasize an individual's direct, inner experience of the sacred, which can be a powerful source of healing and meaning, particularly when formal religious structures may feel inadequate.
Transformation: The mystical journey is often centered on personal transformation and growth, helping individuals navigate challenges and find a deeper connection with themselves, others, and the divine.
Embracing Mystery: A pastoral approach that values mysticism recognizes that some aspects of life and suffering are mysterious and cannot be fully explained by rational thought. It encourages caregivers to be present in this "fog" with the care-receiver, rather than always providing immediate answers or theological explanations.
