The cell is above all the place where the monk encounters God. It is a physical space, yet a space ‘in accordance with the image of one’s inward nature.’… The primary tools of the cell are solitude, silence, listening, and the Spirit.(Keller, Oasis of Wisdom, p. 51)
The spiritual life, however, is not limited solely to participation in the liturgy. The Christian is indeed called to pray with his brethren, but he must also enter into his chamber to pray to the Father, in secret; yet more, according to the teaching of the Apostle, he should pray without ceasing. (Sacrosanctum Concilium: 12)
Our Lord set the example for all his followers and commanded us: “But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who is in secret will reward you (NRSV Matt. 6:6). It is taken for granted that monks have a cell — a place apart where he encounters God. But what of the Oblate who is trying to live the Rule outside of the monastery and a different vocation. It is no different. Jesus did not say only monks, nuns, priests, are to go to their secret room — he commanded all of us to enter our secret room. This is essential for anyone wanting to progress spiritually.
In the past the very wealthy would have a chapel built for their own personal prayer space but in the modern world a special chapel is a luxury. But also finding any space in a house that you can create a “cell” or personal prayer space can be a challenge — but it can be done. We all know the difficulties: work, phone calls, families, friends, neighbors, dozens of ways we are in the world today distracted. But it is particularly when we are most stressed, when there is the most noise that you need this “cell.”
Abba Markos spoke to Abba Arsenios: ‘Why do you flee from us?’ The the elder said to him: ‘God knows that I love you. But I cannot be with God and [at the same time] with men. The thousands and myriads [of angels] above have [but] one will; men, though, have many wills. I cannot leave God and go among men.
See, monastic life does not sound so different from family life! Finding that balance between being with God and being “among men.” is the biggest struggle.
So what do we look for in a “cell.” First, it should be in accordance with the image of one’s inward nature and a place where one can be alone, for prayer is a “conversation with the mind of God, in which the presence of others can be a distraction (Bunge. Earthen Vessels, p. 55).
Second, it should be as secluded and peaceful as possible. Well, as secret as family life will allow. Having anywhere “secret” with small children is very difficult, but as children grow they will learn not to disturb you — especially if you set a particular time. And through your example they will learn to imitate you.
Third, the space should be marked with a cross or crucifix as well as a candle, both symbols of Jesus. Placing a bible at the spot will re-enforce that the area not be disturbed — particularly if the bible is left open. Lighting the candle also marks the beginning of prayer.
Fourth, placing one or two special icons, pictures, or statues helps to designate the space further as being special — but not so many that they become a distraction;
Lastly, place in the space or near the different items you need for prayer. Beside the bible you could include the Liturgy of the Hours, prayer books, rosary.
That’s it. It does not have to be a chapel, just a “secret place” where we can encounter our Creator, Brother, and our Guide.
