CENTERING PRAYER 2019
“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
Centering Prayer is the opening of mind and heart to God, the ultimate mystery, beyond thoughts, words, and emotions. It is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer but rather to give them new light and depth of meaning.
Our Centering Prayer groups use the following guidelines:
Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action within. Instead of a sacred word a simple inward glance toward the Divine Presence or noticing one’s breath may be more suitable for some persons.
Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly and silently introduce the sacred word as the symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within.
When engaged with your thoughts, (including body sensations, feelings, images, and concepts) return ever-so-gently to the sacred word.
At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes.
Our Centering Prayer sessions are held every Sunday from 9:15 to 9:50 am between the two services. After Centering Prayer we listen to the word of God in Scripture (Lectio Divina) where we listen to the text of Scripture as if we were in conversation with Christ and He were suggesting the topics of conversation.
Further explanation of Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina may be found in handouts in the church library.
The participants in this practice of Centering Prayer find it helps to draw them into a relationship with God; gives them an appreciation of the present moment; and allows them to let go of attachments that tend to encumber us. Instead of trying to do it all ourselves we let go and let God guide us. We invite you to share this sacred experience with us.
Participation in the Centering Prayer groups has increased this past year. Our co-operative effort with the Church of the Good Shepherd continues to thrive and many participants attend both Centering Prayer groups on a regular basis. There are two Centering Prayer groups: One group meets at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Tuesdays from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The other group meets at St. Andrew’s on Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Please call Susan Kelly for further details.
Susan Kelly