An Ordinary Pathway to Extraordinary Faith
“Kitchen table mysticism” offers a way out of today’s meaning-starved culture. By finding the divine in daily acts, ordinary life can be transfigured.
In the modern age of rapid digitalization and constant distractions, many of us find ourselves in a relentless pursuit of meaning. The bustling noise of the world often drowns out the still, silent voice of true spirituality.
Yet, if we trace our steps back to the roots of tradition, we can find a remedy in what I'd like to term “kitchen table mysticism”.
What is Kitchen Table Mysticism?
At its core, kitchen table mysticism celebrates the sacredness of ordinary life. It's the art of finding the divine in the day-to-day—in small acts like saying grace devoutly before meals, reciting the family Rosary, practicing meatless Fridays, or whispering a prayer before making that daunting phone call.
These small acts, though seemingly trivial, are vital to anchoring us in a spirituality that resonates deeply, rather than being swayed by fleeting trends.
a Meaning-Starved Life
When we disconnect from essential and simple practices of faith and devotion, we risk becoming “meaning-starved”.
This state of emptiness is a dangerous precipice, and the implications are evident. The sacred gets replaced with the superficial. In the Church, we get liturgical innovation, questionable apparitions, and a zealous embrace of novel opportunities for participation and evangelization that diverge from time-tested spiritual discipleship.
In the broader culture, there’s a significant portion of society that, in its quest for spiritual fulfillment, will veer towards neo-paganism, Buddhism, recreational drug use, extreme political activism, and other paths that will not lead to genuine conversion, spiritual illumination, or even personal well-being.
the power of the ordinary
Rekindling the flames of kitchen table mysticism is, therefore, more crucial than ever.
It’s a call to remember that—although it sounds a little cliché—the ordinary can indeed be extraordinary. Even the simplest, most mundane act, when infused with intention, faith, and an interior awareness of God’s presence, can become a channel of profound spiritual experience.
The beauty of this attitude and approach is its universality and accessibility for busy modern people: the highest of mysteries are often tucked away in the most mundane circumstances.
Beyond Popular Culture
While the nuances of kitchen table mysticism might not capture the attention of mainstream platforms like Netflix or become viral sensations, their power lies in their efficacy. They offer a genuine escape from the superficial matrix of our attention-driven culture.
In conclusion, as we navigate the complex tapestry of modern living, let's not forget the wisdom and depth found in the deceptively common practice of kitchen table mysticism. Embracing and cherishing ordinary rituals and practices can be our compass, guiding us toward a life enriched with genuine spiritual depth and connection.
The path might be humble, but it promises a journey that's transformative and deeply rewarding.
The Saintmaker Catholic Life Planner includes powerful goal-setting and discernment tools incorporated into a quarterly personal planner to help you deepen your faith, become happier and more organized, and achieve more in your vocation. Click here to learn more…
BROWSE BY TYPE
BROWSE BY TOPIC
what is the saintmaker?
The Saintmaker creates content (free) and tools (for purchase) to help you create the life you dream of, become a happier and more fulfilled person, and deepen your faith with a practical daily path to sainthood.
