Our society is desperate for good men, bold in holiness, whose actions are an antidote to the rampant cowardice and selfishness so prevalent in our culture. Such men are free to be who God created them to be, bearing in mind that true freedom is found not merely in “freedom from” restraint, but “freedom to” do what’s right:
Human freedom is a force for growth and maturity in truth and goodness; it attains its perfection when directed toward God, our beatitude … There is no true freedom except in the service of what is good and just. (CCC 1731, 1733)
One particularly rigorous—and thus particularly fruitful—program is a relative newcomer to the spiritual scene: Exodus 90, a 90-day spiritual exercise for men that “provides a path to freedom through prayer, asceticism, and fraternity,” said James Baxter, its co-founder and executive director.
“When we look to the Book of Exodus, we see in the Israelites a powerful image for men today,” Baxter said. “The Israelites are enslaved not because they are weak, but because they are strong and growing. As a result, the Pharaoh fears them and their taskmasters oppress them further. This is so similar to men today, who are so full of potential and power, that the Devil enslaves them to sin and worldly distractions out of fear for what they might do if they responded to God’s high calling.”
Exodus 90 is a ninety-day spiritual exercise for men based on three pillars: prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. All three of these pillars are essential aspects of the Christian life. It is for this reason that taking up this spiritual exercise requires taking up all three of these pillars both simultaneously and humbly.
To join the challenge please share your contact information below. No cost to join. Men from ALL parishes are welcome! For more information contact Jim at (406) 679-2974 or email him at anthonye90@prototonmail.com.