Fr Peter Murphy in Conversation with Fr Cyprian Consiglio

Ahead of the 2027 NZCCM National Retreat, Fr Peter Murphy talks with retreat leader Fr Cyprian Consiglio about meditation and the evolution of consciousness, interreligious dialogue, music and the contemplative life.

In January, Camaldolese monk, teacher and musician Fr Cyprian Consiglio OSB Cam will travel to Aotearoa New Zealand to lead the 2027 NZCCM National Retreat, The Heart of Christian Spirituality.

In August, Fr Peter Murphy sat down with Cyprian at Bonnevaux , the international home of WCCM, to talk about meditation, the contemplative life and the influences that have shaped Cyprian’s spiritual journey. Peter is a former National Coordinator of NZCCM. He now coordinates the residential community at Bonnevaux in France.

At the heart of their conversation is a question that goes directly to our practice: what is the significance of meditation in the world today?

Watch the Conversation (10 mins)

Cyprian describes meditation and contemplation as the “deep work” that can transform our consciousness — changing our understanding of ourselves, of the human person and of the divine.

“The problems we face in this day and age are not going to be solved by the same consciousness that created those problems.”

Peter and Cyprian also explore the importance of being rooted in our own spiritual tradition while remaining open to others. Cyprian reflects on his life-changing encounter with Bede Griffiths, his work in monastic interreligious dialogue, and his encounters with Buddhist and other Asian spiritual traditions.

We also meet Cyprian the musician — “I drag a guitar everywhere I go whether they ask me for it or not.” New Zealanders will have an opportunity to experience this side of Cyprian too, with a public concert in Hamilton following the National Retreat.

Finally, Peter asks about kenosis — self-emptying, a key theme Cyprian will explore with us in January. Drawing on the ancient Camaldolese tradition, Cyprian offers a beautifully simple description of the contemplative life:

“Empty yourself completely and sit waiting, content with the grace of God.”

Fr Cyprian Consiglio will lead the 2027 NZCCM National Retreat, The Heart of Christian Spirituality, in January 2027.