Catholic mysticism emphasizes the spiritual aspects of life. This includes Ascetic practices and aspiration. It is one of the most popular forms of Catholic spirituality. Mysticism has many branches and has been practiced for centuries. Let's examine some of the many types of mysticism.
Experience
Mysticism is an experience of God that can be a speculative or practical one. Some mystics are able to only know God, while others can trace the duties of life as well as the actions of God. Both can be contemplative or affective. While they have their own approaches to God, they both tend not to focus on the divine part within the human soul.
Aspiration
A major theme in early Christian mysticism is Christ-mysticism. This aspect of Christ’s life is fully expressed in the Gospel of John where Jesus speaks about his impending death as well as his return in Spirit. He also prays to God for an interpenetrating union between souls. As such, all those who belong to Christ share in his perfect union with the Father.
Forms of prayer
There are many types of prayer in Catholic mysticism. Some are simple and others more complex. A simple prayer is one that focuses on a single thought or object, without thinking too much.
Ascetic practices
Catholic mysticism is rich in the history of asceticism. This practice is not without danger, however. This practice can be dangerous, especially when it is applied to women. It can be harmful for women and encourage unquestioning loyalty to male authorities.
Aspiration to be united with Christ
Christian tradition has a long-standing tradition that seeks union with Christ. This idea was captured in the Gospel According John (Saint Paul) and in early Christianity. These writers stressed the central goal of their mystical experiences as being with Christ. This was expressed in the phrase, "in Christ," that implies personal union with Christ. Paul's Christ was not just a man after flesh, but a supreme, divine person.
Aspiration for transcendence
Aspiration for transcendence, a fundamental part of catholic mysticism's spirituality, is a central element. It is the desire to live in complete communion, with God, as the Source of all existence. This union is achieved through meditation, prayer and other practices. The struggle of the mystic with his natural soul is an essential stage on his path to the Divine. It is through this struggle, that the divine enters a mystic's heart.