Question
I just returned from giving a retreat to cloistered nuns where they have adoration all day long but not through the night. It is part of their prayer life. Any current theologies of the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament available?
-- Stymied in St. Louis
Answer
Sounds like the cloistered nuns are following church guidelines. Most of the theologies are based on "Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharist Outside of Mass." Some people want to make "adoration" the solution or "all purpose" liturgy that substitutes for Eucharist (Mass) or the Liturgy of the Hours. The new order of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is clear... it is to be a fruit or extension of the Mass and to have communal prayers, psalms, hymns and scripture texts which reflect on the Eucharist. Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament is secondary to viaticum and communion of the sick.