It probably comes as a surprise that the word community literally means “with walls.” While we usually associate communities with radical openness and constant sharing among members, such idealism is probably more a symptom of our own spiritual naivete and emotional blind spots than it is an authentic vision of human relationships. In a real community, the line that distinguishes one member from the next is, at the same time, the very locus of connection between the two which makes the whole strong and durable. Thus, monastery chapels, known for their singularity of voice and uniformity of worship, are surrounded by hundreds of tiny cells which keep the monks separated at night so that they might be fresh for spending all their waking hours together the next day. With experience, these physical walls become integrated at the deepest level of the psyche and communion is established at the dinner table, in ministry, on the streets, and wherever the Lord leads us. Let’s spend some time this evening getting in touch with our inner room. Let’s identify and befriend the walls that define us. Let’s learn to “wall with” others throughout this life into the next. Ave Crux, Spes Unica.
