“A Spoken Silence“is a weblog devoted to the inward journey of the mystical Christian life. “Mystical” in this sense means seeking the reality of the Christian experience of God that is neither apparent to the senses or obvious to the rational mind. It is that component of the Christian faith which compels us to move beyond our limited understanding, to experience the transcendent and unknowable God.
This should not be confused as being something esoteric. The mystical is eminently practical and real. It is in a sense the ultimate experiential relationship with God. It is the path of becoming and taking on the mind of Christ. It is the mystical reality. It is the understanding of God wherein we finally understand reality and in which all else falls away.
The author of this site is Jon Mark Hogg of San Angelo, Texas.
All original posts on this site may be reposted or reprinted for non-commercial purposes.
Jon Mark, I am glad to have found your new blog. I appreciated your writing and thoughts in your previous blog and I look forward to following “A Spoken Silence.” I really like that name. It expresses truth, wisdom, and a spiritual practice. We share, I think, a common path. I am not sure if I ever told you but I practiced law 15 years before going to seminary.
Peace, Mike+
Thanks Fr. Mike
I also think our paths are similar. When I left my former church I almost landed in the Episcopal Church but ended up in the local Greek Orthodox parish. I have considered seminary before, but I would probably be a horrible priest. But, one of my great failings is looking for peace and fulfillment in things outside myself. I finally decided until God does something dramatic I am going to strive to learn to be content and follow where I am and not where I am not. I hope we can continue our conversations online.
Pax Vobis
Jon Mark
It looks very helpful. Thanks for blogging.
I just gave up and yielded to the temptation. Thanks for reading my ramblings
I also think our paths are similar. When I left my former church I almost landed in the Episcopal Church but ended up in the local Greek Orthodox parish. I have considered seminary before, but I would probably be a horrible priest. But, one of my great failings is looking for peace and fulfillment in things outside myself. I finally decided until God does something dramatic I am going to strive to learn to be content and follow where I am and not where I am not. I hope we can continue our conversations online.
+1
Dear John,
Your ‘reflections’ on Not Giving an Offence’is a timely answer to my prayer and my need.
Thank you so much.
Shalom!
Santosh
P.S: If photography as an Art Form interests you, do see my site. And also: http://wayneford.poserous.com/santosh-vermas-eye-for-india
Thank you again !
Santosh
JM-
A friend just shared “A Spoken Silence” with me. I have scrolled through a few of your recent reflections…
I’m looking forward to reading more.
MM-
Welcome and thanks. Comments and conversation are always welcome.
Peace be with you.
So delighted to come across your blog. I appreciated your post on Augustine today… indeed, “yes” to both questions.
The links in your sidebar are rich with content. And, your header photo is beautiful and peaceful! Blessings to you.
Thanks so much for what you are doing here. It is always good to stumble upon fellow pilgrims. I will bookmark your site and return. I also invite you to visit us at http://www.oasisofwisdom.net We walk a shared path.
blessings
Emily Wilmer
As a South African I have been following your blog for a good couple of years Jon Mark and many times I have wanted to respond but have refrained from doing so. The reasons are varied but after reading your post today, I feel compelled to respond by simply adding another THANK YOU – one that is both sincere and deeply grateful to God for people like you whose journey I can relate to. May you continue to share God and yourself with others in this way. Karen Wissink
Have you considered a monthly archive link?
Good suggestion. It has now been added.
how do we contribute to this blog? or is it only for us to read and comment?
I am the only contributor. But, you are welcome to comment.
Jon Mark,
I wanted to message you and let you know what a treasure I feel this blog has been in my life. I look forward every day to reading and searching through the archives for blogs that edify me and those around me. I live in rual Ohio and work in a factory and endure relentless harassment each and everyday because as my co-workers put it, “I know you won’t respond…” mainly because of my Christianity. I am an Orthodox Christian and working in the industrial world is quite challenging and the struggle great. Thank you for the edifying posts that have helped. I continue to look forward to reading each and every day. You are a blessing to me. And for that I thank God for you always. Even though I have not met you, Lord willing one day (in eternity) we will. If you have and advise about enduring the relentless struggle of the workplace please feel free to advise. Again, thank so much for words that heal.
David
*you may email privately if you desire to further our conversation in a much less public forum.
Thank you David for the kind words.