There is a monastic practice known as statio that takes place in our monastery. During statio, we line up two by two and remain silent for a few minutes. We set aside distractions and prepare ourselves to process into the church for liturgy. Statio reminds us that we’re in the presence of God. Statio is an intentional, sacred stop. Then, when the signal is given to “go,” we all begin moving together.  

We all need moments of statio—just stopping before the next thing. Stopping is a practice, and the more we get used to doing it, the more it becomes part of who we are.  

One of our teachers at Saint John’s University told me he begins each class by announcing, “Ok, class, statio.” The students pocket their cell phones and remain silent for a few minutes. Then, with a collective sigh, class begins. Students love statio, for it allows them space and intentionality in a distracted world.  

When the disciples asked Jesus how they could do God’s work, he replied: “This is the work of God, that you believe in the one he sent.” Belief is not a quick, slam-dunk decision we make once and for all. Rather, belief is a lifetime process of letting God work in us. Belief calls for moments of intentionality. Sacred stops. Allow this for yourself.  

Stop. Am I a disciple of Jesus? Then why?  

Stop. Am I able to offer myself for others? Then how?  

Stop. Am I able to accomplish the works of God? Then when?  

Fr. Michael Peterson  

Michael Peterson, OSB, is a monk of Saint John’s Abbey, where he is the director of oblates and vocation team leader.