ASCETICISM
"Asceticism is the organized battle plan to defeat sin and
increase virtue in our lives." Fr. Jonathan Robinson
This is the
beginning of the
process where a man
rids himself of his
inordinate
attachments and
learns to develop his
inner spirituality.
On a Wilderness
Outreach
expedition men
are immersed in
an environment of
asceticism. All of
the necessities of
life like food and
water must be
worked for.
Men are removed from
the daily distractions,
temptations, and
comforts of every day
living. No TVs,
computers, or cell
phones. No hot
showers or snacks from
the refrigerator. No
movies or fast food
restaurants.
Asceticism is defined as a chosen simplified and physically
difficult life that deepens a man’s connection with God.
Fr. Jonathan Robinson, in his book "Spiritual Combat
Revisited" states, that asceticism is as an “organized battle
plan to decrease sin and to increase virtue”.
On expedition a man is required to discover his inner reservoir of
strength, becoming clearer in his thoughts emotions, and prayers.
A man needs the discipline of Asceticism in
order to become the man God made him to
be. True Asceticism will challenge a man
physically, spiritually, intellectually and
emotionally. God made men so that he must
break through the wall of Asceticism to
grow in Holiness. The journey through
Asceticism is the journey of the Cross.