DEVELOPING A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD: LEARNING GOD S LANGUAGE. By Grace Padilla

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "DEVELOPING A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD: LEARNING GOD S LANGUAGE. By Grace Padilla"

Transcription

1 DEVELOPING A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD: LEARNING GOD S LANGUAGE By Grace Padilla We are all social beings. There is, in us, a deep need to communicate with one another. In this technological age, there is an ever expanding proliferation of means to communicate telephone, , fax machine, cell phones, i-touch, i-pad, i-phone, Skype, Twitter, Facebook etc. Most have a cell phones, some even more than one. I guess communicating is an innate desire to be in relationship, at the very least, to be in touch. How many of us know: That we can/should develop a relationship with God? That God wants even more to have a relationship with us? That God, in creating us, gave of Himself to us? That this Divine Indwelling is in the depths of our being? The desire to go to God, to open to His presence within us, does not come from our own initiative. We do not have to go anywhere to find God because He is already drawing us in every conceivable way into union with Himself. It is rather a question of opening to an action that is already happening in us. In the distant past, I gave workshops on prayer specifically centering prayer and lectio divina. I don t do that anymore. We now have Contemplative Outreach Philippines (COP) to give these workshops. They are available to you too, for our goal is to have a COP prayer group in every parish. I hope you will take advantage of these workshops and join this effort. When people come to me and ask: Teach me how to pray, or when nuns and even priests say: I want to pray, it does not mean they don t know how to pray, nor does it mean they do not pray. Teach me how to pray! That cry comes from some very deep part of our being. We need to get in touch with that center and let our prayer arise from this place. That cry comes from a desperate plea to have a deeper relationship with God in whom I live and move and have my being. In the final analysis it is the soul s yearning to experience God. Prayer is relationship. When we speak of prayer, we speak of relationship. Cultivating a relationship with a special friend or cultivating a relationship with God takes place in pretty much the same way. We need to make time to meet regularly and frequently. We need to make time to communicate regularly and frequently. There are two prayers that work hand in hand in developing this relationship Lectio Divina and Centering Prayer. Lectio Divina, developed by the Desert Fathers, is a kind of listening to the text in scripture as if we were in conversation with Christ, the Word of God, and He were suggesting topics of conversation. Introductory Talk for Parishes 1

2 Pope Paul VI recommended Lectio Divina for the general public. It was during his time when the dogmatic Constitution, Verbum Dei, was drafted. Benedict XVI, then a young theologian asserted, Lectio Divina will bring to the Church a new spiritual springtime. The Popes since that time, St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI continually emphasized in their important documents the actuality and relevance of Lectio Divina in the life of the Christian, and the power of the living Word of God to transform our lives, our society and our world. In his encyclical, Novo Millennio Ineunte, St. John Paul II says: It is especially necessary that listening to the word of God should become a life-giving encounter in the ancient and ever valid tradition of Lectio Divina, which draws from the biblical text the living Word which questions, directs and shapes our lives. The daily encounter with Christ and reflection on his word leads, beyond mere acquaintanceship, to an attitude of friendliness, trust and love. Our relationship with Christ grows deeper through reading, reflection, responding, and resting. In other words this daily encounter with the Word/Christ eventually leads to trust and love. Lectio Divina was originally taught in Latin and these levels continue to be called by their Latin names: Lectio or reading the Word, Meditatio or reflecting on the Word, Oratio or responding to the Word in prayer, and Contemplatio or a resting in the Word in silence, in love. This is what contemplation is a resting in God in love. Allow me to formally define Contemplative prayer. It is the normal development of the grace of baptism and the regular practice of Lectio Divina. We may think of prayer as thoughts or feelings expressed in words. But this is only one expression. Contemplative prayer is the laying aside of thoughts. It is the opening of mind and heart, our whole being to God, the Ultimate Reality, beyond thoughts, words and emotions. We open our awareness to God, whom we know by faith is with us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than choosing, closer than consciousness itself. God is the ground in whom our life emerges at every moment. Contemplative prayer is a process of interior transformation, a relationship initiated by God and leading us, if we consent, to divine union. Our way of seeing reality changes in the process. A restructuring of consciousness takes place that empowers us to perceive, relate, and respond with increasing sensitivity to the divine presence and action within, through and beyond everything that exists. Contemplation is a gift. It is given to us. It is not something we earn or bring about. This is where we can speak of Centering Prayer and how it greatly enhances this relationship. As a method, it is designed to develop contemplative prayer by preparing our faculties, through the laying aside of our thoughts, to cooperate with the gift of contemplation. Introductory Talk for Parishes 2

3 Our faculties, our capacity to listen to the Word are greatly influenced and severely hampered by events that happened in our life from the time we are born based on: The need for security, affectation/esteem, power/control; learned values that were inculcated in us by our family, the mores of our society, even religion. Our over-identification with our group. (This is how biases and prejudices are formed.) These are the noises, in the form of thoughts, what we call our false self. These noises within us make us: Hesitate to reach out in love; Unforgiving; Seek revenge; Hold on to our possessions; Control people, places or things. We are continually rationalizing, justifying, or even glorifying our false self. These are the noises within us that the Word addresses when we do our Lectio. Through the silence of contemplative prayer, we begin to hear the Word speaking to our inmost being. It is in silence that we truly hear. (Ex. Love one another.to forgive 70 x 7) Contemplation is a gift given us.all we can do is cooperate with this gift. Centering prayer is a method designed to facilitate the development of contemplative prayer by preparing one s faculties to cooperate with this gift. In centering prayer we learn to lay aside our thoughts. We simply let them come and then we let them go. In the process we learn existentially what silence is. Fr. Thomas Keating, one of the Cistercian monks from whom I learned centering prayer wrote: Silence is God s first language. All other languages are poor translations. In order to hear that language, we must learn to be still and rest in God. After more than 25 years of doing centering prayer, I now realize that it is in the silence, the stillness, the openness, and the quiet, that one begins to taste the reality of God s presence within. St. John of the Cross once wrote: The Father for all eternity spoke just one word; and He spoke it in an eternal silence. And it is in silence that we hear. Perhaps the experience of Elijah, narrated in 1 Kings 19:11-12 when he climbed Mt. Horeb and waited for God to come, best describes the mystery of the Divine presence in the silence within. An angel said: Go out and stand on the mountain for the Lord is about to pass by. A great wind came. But God was not in the wind. Then came an earthquake; then fire. God was not in any of them. Then the presence of God appeared to Elijah in a tiny whispering sound the sound of sheer silence. I dare say it is the sound of sheer silence that best describes the inner peace of Centering Prayer. Silence calls to us and then leads us deeper into itself, the True Self that participates in the Trinitarian life of God. Silence is a fruit that grows within the interior regions of our soul that has begun to move beyond all the exterior commotion the noises of the false Introductory Talk for Parishes 3

4 self. Silence counteracts the impact of those noises that try to interfere with and interrupt the deep communion with God. Silence first draws us and then leads us into contemplation, a world of reality beyond words, a silent world that is experientially filled with the peaceful, transcendent, ungraspable reality that is God Himself. Both centering prayer and Lectio Divina work with the same goals in mind: developing a relationship with Christ/Word to transform us into the mind of Christ. Our fidelity to the practice of Centering Prayer and the daily encounter with the Word through Lectio Divina enables us to recommit in ways only the Spirit can open in us at home, in our work, and in our Ministry. We let all our plans, our activities, our goals flow from prayer. In the midst of the turmoil and the troubles of today s fast paced world, Centering Prayer is a way for us to stop the merry-go-round. These simple practices Lectio Divina and Centering prayer lead to the contemplative dimension of the gospel. Contemplation helps us to discover the reality of God s presence in the silence within. Psalm 46:10 reminds us: Be still and know I am God. Centering Prayer is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer. Rather, it adds depth of meaning to all prayers, and facilitates the movement from more active modes of prayer verbal, mental or affective prayer into a receptive prayer of resting in God. Centering prayer emphasizes prayer as a personal relationship with God and as a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with Him. The source of Centering Prayer, as in all methods leading to contemplative prayer, is the Indwelling Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The focus of Centering Prayer is the deepening of our relationship with the living Christ, the Word. The effects of Centering prayer is ecclesial from the Spirit of love welling from the common hearts of the Father and the Son, continually spilling out into the World to creation and to each one of us. Centering prayer builds up communities of faith and bonds the members together in mutual friendship and love. It opens us up completely to God and to genuine service of others. Service is the concrete expression of love. When one belongs completely to God, sharing of one s life and gifts continually increases. I would like to end this presentation with an invitation to learn these prayers, Lectio Divina and Centering Prayer through the Contemplative Outreach Philippines (COP). This would be a perfect preparation for a deeper relationship with Christ, and participation in the life of the Church. Here is a beautiful prayer written by the award-winning journalist and best-selling author Paul Thigen that well describes the point of this presentation. It is entitled SILENCE Sometimes You speak, Lord, in tongues so strange, that I must pray for grace to obey without understanding. Sometimes You sing such a lovely song that I must laugh at the silly tune I thought was wisdom. Sometimes You shout in a voice so loud that I must awake and confess again that I was sleeping. But in this moment when silence is Your word to me Introductory Talk for Parishes 4

5 and stillness is my prayer, I rest within a confidence, born in the quiet of Your smile: I am beloved. My personal favorite quote on contemplative prayer comes from Fr. Keating in Open Mind, Open Heart : Contemplative prayer is the world in which God can do anything. It is to be open to the Infinite and hence to infinite possibilities. Each time we grow in our relationship through Lectio Divina and through Centering Prayer, we prepare our faculties for the gift of contemplative prayer. We open ourselves to the Infinite, hence to infinite possibilities. Such is the gift of each one of us as the beloved. (Excerpts taken from Open Mind Open Heart by Fr. Thomas Keating) Introductory Talk for Parishes 5

ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD: THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA

ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD: THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD: THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA by Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B. 1. THE PROCESS of LECTIO DIVINA A VERY ANCIENT art, practiced at one time by all Christians, is the technique

More information

ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA

ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA ACCEPTING THE EMBRACE of GOD THE ANCIENT ART of LECTIO DIVINA 1. THE PROCESS of LECTIO DIVINA Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B. A VERY ANCIENT art, practiced at one time by all Christians, is the technique known

More information

A RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPS BY A PROCESS OF GROWING INTIMACY. increased attentiveness as an encounter with Christ. as a basis for a conversation

A RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPS BY A PROCESS OF GROWING INTIMACY. increased attentiveness as an encounter with Christ. as a basis for a conversation GROWTH IN RELATIONSHIP Handout # 1 A RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPS BY A PROCESS OF GROWING INTIMACY With Another Person With Christ (Through Scripture) Acquaintance o Informational o Formal Friendliness o Conversational

More information

Lectio - reading/listening

Lectio - reading/listening 1. THE PROCESS of LECTIO DIVINA A VERY ANCIENT art, practiced at one time by all Christians, is the technique known as lectio divina - a slow, contemplative praying of the Scriptures which enables the

More information

Introduction...5. Session 1: Friendship with Christ Session 2: Prayer Session 3: Sacred Scripture...26

Introduction...5. Session 1: Friendship with Christ Session 2: Prayer Session 3: Sacred Scripture...26 Table of Contents Introduction.....................................5 Session 1: Friendship with Christ......................... 10 Session 2: Prayer................................. 18 Session 3: Sacred

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, December 16, 2010 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** MEETING Thursday, December 16 7PM Cathedral School Christmas Program 8PM Bible Study (Lectio

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, December 9, 2010 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** NEXT WEEK S MEETING Thursday, December 16 7PM Cathedral School Christmas Program 8PM Bible Study

More information

CENTERING PRAYER GUIDELINES

CENTERING PRAYER GUIDELINES CENTERING PRAYER GUIDELINES Transcript of Talk by Thomas Keating ocso Video clips of this talk has been posted on YouTube in URLs such as the following: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtxlznaygas which

More information

Spiritual Reading of Scripture Lectio Divina

Spiritual Reading of Scripture Lectio Divina Spiritual Reading of Scripture Lectio Divina Read with a vulnerable heart. Expect to be blessed in the reading. Read as one awake, one waiting for the Beloved. Read with reverence. Macrina Wiederkehr For

More information

Think for a moment of all the times you

Think for a moment of all the times you Silence and Prayer Directions: Read the essay, then answer the questions that follow. Think for a moment of all the times you are truly in silence throughout your day. Maybe your first thought is when

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, January 20, 2011 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** BIBLE STUDY OBJECTIVES Doctrine & Theology of the Liturgy of the Mass as found in Scripture &

More information

Father Robert W. Marshall St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Fall 2015 CHRISTIAN PRAYER: AN INTRODUCTION

Father Robert W. Marshall St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Fall 2015 CHRISTIAN PRAYER: AN INTRODUCTION Father Robert W. Marshall St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Fall 2015 CHRISTIAN PRAYER: AN INTRODUCTION PART II: PRAYING WITH SCRIPTURE SACRED SCRIPTURE: THE WORD OF GOD The Church forcefully and specially

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, December 2, 2010 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** BIBLE STUDY OBJECTIVES Doctrine & Theology of the Liturgy of the Mass as found in Scripture &

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, November 11, 2010 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** BIBLE STUDY OBJECTIVES Doctrine & Theology of the Liturgy of the Mass as found in Scripture &

More information

Spiritual Pathways. Pastor Rich Knight Trinitarian Congregational Church Nov. 13, Mark 12:28-34

Spiritual Pathways. Pastor Rich Knight Trinitarian Congregational Church Nov. 13, Mark 12:28-34 Spiritual Pathways Pastor Rich Knight Trinitarian Congregational Church Nov. 13, 2011 Mark 12:28-34 One of the scribes came near and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them

More information

CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE Volume 1, Issue 1 Summer 2000

CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE Volume 1, Issue 1 Summer 2000 CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE Volume 1, Issue 1 Summer 2000 By Carol Wray Journey with Thomas Keating Dioceses Co-Sponsor Teacher of Contemplative Prayer Over 1600 hundred people took advantage

More information

Introduction CGD_MEETING_CS6_pc.indd 11 30/05/ :40:05

Introduction CGD_MEETING_CS6_pc.indd 11 30/05/ :40:05 Introduction I ve been leading groups of people in meditating on Scripture for twenty years, helping them enter into the biblical text, notice what resonates with them and then reflect on that. People

More information

1 Resources on the Prayer to the Holy Spirit

1 Resources on the Prayer to the Holy Spirit 1 Resources on the Prayer to the Holy Spirit Going Deeper in Prayer Prayer to the Holy Spirit O Holy Spirit, Beloved of my soul, I adore You. Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen and console me. Tell me

More information

WORKSHOP: HEALTHY HOLY HABITS

WORKSHOP: HEALTHY HOLY HABITS WORKSHOP: HEALTHY HOLY HABITS by Jennifer Wake PARTICIPANT S GUIDE RELEVANCE: Sometimes life is overwhelming. It helps when we are grounded in our relationship with God, one day at a time. But how can

More information

On The Way with Jesus

On The Way with Jesus On The Way with Jesus And immediately they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1:18 Praying the Gospel of Mark ON THE WAY WITH JESUS Praying the Gospel of Mark Lectio Divina Sacred Reading INTRODUCTION

More information

Shamrock News. Notes from the Pastor by Fr. Jim Angert, T.O.R. Families In Service. Symbolon. Lectio Divina. Faith Formation Ministry Highlights

Shamrock News. Notes from the Pastor by Fr. Jim Angert, T.O.R. Families In Service. Symbolon. Lectio Divina. Faith Formation Ministry Highlights Shamrock News Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit Matthew 28:19 N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 V O L U M E 3, I S

More information

INVITATION. called Inspiration Point. It always held an interest for me, probably

INVITATION. called Inspiration Point. It always held an interest for me, probably Spiritual Formation by Mickey E. Cox INVITATION It took me about 15 minutes to hike up to the top of the camp s hill, called Inspiration Point. It always held an interest for me, probably because of the

More information

Scripture in a Missionfocused. Congregation ORIENTINGCONGREGATIONALLIFETOWARDMISSION FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS PRACTICES

Scripture in a Missionfocused. Congregation ORIENTINGCONGREGATIONALLIFETOWARDMISSION FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS PRACTICES ORIENTINGCONGREGATIONALLIFETOWARDMISSION FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS Faced with difficult questions, many properly turn to scripture to find insight and inspiration. Search the scriptures for the Living Word

More information

Lectio Divina for Groups Second Sunday of Easter to Pentecost Year A

Lectio Divina for Groups Second Sunday of Easter to Pentecost Year A Hearts Enlightened The EasterWord Lectio Divina for Groups Second Sunday of Easter to Pentecost Year A 1 Faith & Life Archdiocese of Brisbane Adult Faith Education 2011 143 Edward St, Brisbane, Australia

More information

During a visit to Croatia 20 years

During a visit to Croatia 20 years Saint Peter Catholic Church Inside 2 The True Meaning of the Word Stewardship 3 Senior Cards Group Deals Fun and Fellowship to Members 4 Sunday School Ministry Provides Opportunity for Youngest Parishioners

More information

Quiet Day: Centering Prayer Practicing Unkowing and Patience

Quiet Day: Centering Prayer Practicing Unkowing and Patience Quiet Day: Centering Prayer Practicing Unkowing and Patience Saturday, February 2, 2008 St. Mary s Episcopal Church 815 Lincoln St., Cadillac, MI 49601 Church Office: 231.775.9641 www.stmaryscadillac.com

More information

SHAPED BY THE MASTER S HAND

SHAPED BY THE MASTER S HAND SHAPED BY THE MASTER S HAND Day Retreat Collated by Peter & Kerryn Christensen What is Lectio divina? Lectio divina or sacred reading is a simple and ancient way of praying with Scripture. It leads us

More information

THE GREAT COMMISSION Talk Handout

THE GREAT COMMISSION Talk Handout I. Introduction to Evangelization A. What is Evangelization? THE GREAT COMMISSION Talk Handout 1) Definition - Evangelize: From the Greek - evangelitso = to bring the Good News 2) Goal - For the Church,

More information

Journal. Advent & Christmas ~ ~ The Lynnfield Catholic Collaborative Our Lady of the Assumption & Saint Maria Goretti Parishes

Journal. Advent & Christmas ~ ~ The Lynnfield Catholic Collaborative Our Lady of the Assumption & Saint Maria Goretti Parishes Advent & Christmas Journal Lynnfield Catholic Collaborative 17 Grove Street Lynnfield, MA 01940 www.lynnfieldcatholic.org The Lynnfield Catholic Collaborative Our Lady of the Assumption & Saint Maria Goretti

More information

SCRIPTURE READING The psalm is read during each of the five moments, followed by a time of silence.

SCRIPTURE READING The psalm is read during each of the five moments, followed by a time of silence. lectio divina Lectio divina holy reading is a gift from the Benedictine and Cistercian tradition, with roots in the 6th century. It is a simple yet rich practice of praying the scriptures, nourishing and

More information

LIVING IN THE WORD OF GOD. A Call to the Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Edmonton

LIVING IN THE WORD OF GOD. A Call to the Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Edmonton LIVING IN THE WORD OF GOD A Call to the Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Edmonton INTRODUCTION On May 10th, 1959, at just two weeks of age, I was taken by my parents to our parish church to

More information

Envisioning phase December 2014 Approval of the recreation process by Pope Francis: A way with Jesus in apostolic availability

Envisioning phase December 2014 Approval of the recreation process by Pope Francis: A way with Jesus in apostolic availability Feast of Saint Francis Xavier - December 3, 2017 The Process of recreating the Apostleship of Prayer Envisioning phase 2010-2014 December 2014 Approval of the recreation process by Pope Francis: A way

More information

PASTORAL LETTER. Living in the Word of God. Archbishop Richard W. Smith September 14, 2017

PASTORAL LETTER. Living in the Word of God. Archbishop Richard W. Smith September 14, 2017 PASTORAL LETTER Archbishop Richard W. Smith September 14, 2017 Living in the Word of God A Call to the Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Edmonton Contents Introduction 2 Listening to the Word

More information

The Contemplative Dimension of the New Evangelisation: Christian Meditation in the Church in a Secular World

The Contemplative Dimension of the New Evangelisation: Christian Meditation in the Church in a Secular World The Contemplative Dimension of the New Evangelisation: Christian Meditation in the Church in a Secular World Laurence Freeman OSB The call to a New Evangelisation creates many hopeful possibilities for

More information

As Pope Benedict XVI notes in the first meditation in this

As Pope Benedict XVI notes in the first meditation in this Editor s Preface The words, Rejoice, because God is with you; he is with us, are words that truly open a new epoch. Dear friends, with an act of faith we must once again accept and understand in the depths

More information

Disciples Preparing for Christ

Disciples Preparing for Christ Shamrock News Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit Matthew 28:19 Advent 2016 Edition Advent 2016 Edition Fr.

More information

Teaching Christian Meditation to Children

Teaching Christian Meditation to Children Teaching Christian Meditation to Children St. Anthony s, Toowoomba Why teach Christian Meditation to children? We are bombarded from an early age with noise, stimulus and messages to keep busy. Jesus says,

More information

Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Resource Materials

Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Resource Materials Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Resource Materials The charts that follow are meant to assist beginning and experienced practitioners in navigating the published teachings and resources available in

More information

Soul Awakening Practice: Prayer, Contemplation And Action By Barbara Marx Hubbard, James O'Dea READ ONLINE

Soul Awakening Practice: Prayer, Contemplation And Action By Barbara Marx Hubbard, James O'Dea READ ONLINE Soul Awakening Practice: Prayer, Contemplation And Action By Barbara Marx Hubbard, James O'Dea READ ONLINE As You Love Yourself: Where Contemplation and Action Meet - Biola - Contemplative prayer practice

More information

Lectio Divina. it can go straight to the point of what the human heart is thinking or intends to do. The Kingdom New Testament

Lectio Divina. it can go straight to the point of what the human heart is thinking or intends to do. The Kingdom New Testament Lectio Divina Father, you spoke your word and the earth was birthed Jesus, you came to us as the Word of God Holy Spirit, you awaken us to the word of God Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, welcome me now to

More information

Coming Events/Calendar Notes

Coming Events/Calendar Notes CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF PUGET SOUND NORTH AUTUMN/WINTER OF 2016 Coming Events/Calendar Notes Saturday, October 29 th : Experiencing the Presence of God - A Day Retreat with Bonnie Shimizu-Father Keating

More information

Table of Contents. What is Lectio Divina? 4. Daily Lectio 5. How to Use Your Journal 6. Lectio Divina for Advent 7-30

Table of Contents. What is Lectio Divina? 4. Daily Lectio 5. How to Use Your Journal 6. Lectio Divina for Advent 7-30 A Catholic Guide to Lectio Divina Advent 2017 Table of Contents What is Lectio Divina? 4 Daily Lectio 5 How to Use Your Journal 6 Lectio Divina for Advent 7-30 Blank Lectio Divina Journal Page 31 Notes

More information

Pray Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.

Pray Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Day 1: Pray Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. NIV Anytime we desire to be refreshed in God it will begin with

More information

Bucket Exercise is. Expanding Our Capacity for God

Bucket Exercise is. Expanding Our Capacity for God Bucket Exercise Work Out Program To Exercise our City of the Lord Founding Charism: Receptivity and Commitment to the Person and Culture of the Holy Spirit, particularly in Covenant Love Bucket Exercise

More information

St. Dominic s Catholic Church

St. Dominic s Catholic Church Intentional Disciples Live In Christ November 2013 St. Dominic s Catholic Church I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes

More information

Message from the Tree

Message from the Tree Message from the Tree Believe in yourself! I was waiting for you. I was expecting you. Just feel my energy, my living energy under your feet because my energy is all around you, embracing you, touching

More information

Nova et Vetera, English Edition, Vol. 10, No. 4 (2012): Book Reviews

Nova et Vetera, English Edition, Vol. 10, No. 4 (2012): Book Reviews Nova et Vetera, English Edition, Vol. 10, No. 4 (2012): 1215 36 1215 Book Reviews Resting on the Heart of Christ: The Vocation and Spirituality of the Seminary Theologian by Deacon James Keating, Ph.D

More information

Catechist Certification Fundamental Theology

Catechist Certification Fundamental Theology The Office of Religious Education and Catechetical Leadership supports the mission of the Diocese of Boise by assisting the Bishop in carrying out his role as the chief catechist of the diocese. Catechist

More information

THE WEEKDAYS OF OUR LIVES //Ordinary Time 2012

THE WEEKDAYS OF OUR LIVES //Ordinary Time 2012 THE WEEKDAYS OF OUR LIVES //Ordinary Time 2012 Fidelity fəˈdelətē noun: Faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support: He sought only the strictest fidelity

More information

FORMATION FOR INTERCULTURAL AND INTERNATIONAL LIVING

FORMATION FOR INTERCULTURAL AND INTERNATIONAL LIVING INTERNATIONAL MISSIONARY CONGRESS OFM Conv. Cochin, Kerala, India January 12-22, 2006 ZDZISŁAW J. KIJAS FORMATION FOR INTERCULTURAL AND INTERNATIONAL LIVING 2006 1 ZDZISŁAW J. Kijas FORMATION FOR INTERCULTURAL

More information

IN THE SANCTUARY OF CONSCIENCE

IN THE SANCTUARY OF CONSCIENCE IN THE SANCTUARY OF CONSCIENCE In the depths of our conscience, we detect a law which we do not impose upon ourselves, but which holds us to obedience. Always summoning us to love the good and avoid evil,

More information

Introduction: Thomas Keating Fr. Thomas Keating, OCSO, Fr. William Skudlarek, OSB

Introduction: Thomas Keating Fr. Thomas Keating, OCSO, Fr. William Skudlarek, OSB 1 of 6 6/10/2015 10:07 PM Home About MID Bulletins News Events Glossary Links Contact Us Support MID Benedict's Dharma Gethsemani I Gethsemani II Gethsemani III Abhishiktananda Society Bulletins Help Introduction:

More information

Personal Spiritual Retreat Kit

Personal Spiritual Retreat Kit DIY Personal Spiritual Retreat Kit by Arabah Joy DIY Personal Spiritual Retreat Kit 2016 Arabah Joy. All Rights Reserved. This workbook is intended for personal use only and may not be reproduced in any

More information

SAMPLE OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS. What Are You Seeking? 1. How do the requirements of this way of life fit with your daily life?

SAMPLE OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS. What Are You Seeking? 1. How do the requirements of this way of life fit with your daily life? SAMPLE OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS An open-ended question is one that cannot be answered by a simple yes or no. It requires a thoughtful answer. The following questions vary in their level of difficulty, and

More information

3. Answer these questions from slide 2 with a simple yes or no (do not worry about answering correctly right now!)

3. Answer these questions from slide 2 with a simple yes or no (do not worry about answering correctly right now!) Dear Confirmation Candidate, We missed you at Sunday s Confirmation session where we continued to explore what we believe by talking about Who is Jesus? In order to make up for missing the session, please

More information

Catholic Peacemaking: the experience of the Community of Sant Egidio What is Sant Egidio?

Catholic Peacemaking: the experience of the Community of Sant Egidio What is Sant Egidio? Catholic Peacemaking: the experience of the Community of Sant Egidio By Dr. Andrea Bartoli (Sant'Egidio Community and Columbia University) presented at a US Institute of Peace workshop February 5, 2001

More information

Lectio Divina. 1) Find a place where you can spend at least a few uninterrupted moments. There are no rules about how long the

Lectio Divina. 1) Find a place where you can spend at least a few uninterrupted moments. There are no rules about how long the Lectio Divina The practice of Praying with Scripture or Lectio Divina, as it is named in Latin, is an ancient way of prayer. It is sometimes associated with Ignatius of Loyola, who lived in the 16th century,

More information

Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Store Resources

Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Store Resources Guide to the Contemplative Outreach Store Resources The charts that follow are meant to assist beginning and experienced practitioners in navigating the published teachings and resources available in the

More information

Notes for a Prophetic Lay Community guided by the Spirit of God

Notes for a Prophetic Lay Community guided by the Spirit of God Notes for a Prophetic Lay Community guided by the Spirit of God Fr. Nicolás Talk to the CLC General Assembly 2008 Fátima, August, 17 th Introduction - Greeting I forgot when it happened. I was finishing

More information

The Holy Spirit: Lord and Giver of Life: Carmel and Renewal.

The Holy Spirit: Lord and Giver of Life: Carmel and Renewal. The Holy Spirit: Lord and Giver of Life: Carmel and Renewal. by Aloysius Deeney, OCD The subject that I would like to present for your consideration is taken from the Congress of the Secular Order celebrated

More information

United in Prayer Day "Healing Violence" March 17, Sample Schedule and Format for an Individual Retreat Day

United in Prayer Day Healing Violence March 17, Sample Schedule and Format for an Individual Retreat Day United in Prayer Day "Healing Violence" March 17, 2018 Sample Schedule and Format for an Individual Retreat Day This is a suggested format and schedule for an individual day of prayer at home with optional

More information

SPIRITUAL FORMATION (TTSF)

SPIRITUAL FORMATION (TTSF) Biola University 1 SPIRITUAL FORMATION (TTSF) TTSF 501 - Introduction to Spiritual Theology and Formation Credits 0-3 Introductory study of the nature of spiritual theology and formation, which attempts

More information

Imwas) was likely an ancient town located approximately 7 miles (11 km) northwest of present day Jerusalem.

Imwas) was likely an ancient town located approximately 7 miles (11 km) northwest of present day Jerusalem. Emmaus Road Week 1 Purpose and Journey Heavenly Father, we thank you for the opportunity to gather here tonight in your holy Name. We ask your blessing upon our Emmaus Group and upon the time we will spend

More information

4518 S Manhattan Ave. Tampa, Florida 33611, Phone: , Fax: , Winter Edition

4518 S Manhattan Ave. Tampa, Florida 33611, Phone: , Fax: ,   Winter Edition Shamrock News Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 Winter 2017-2018 Winter 2017-2018 Edition

More information

Sermon-based Study Guide Sermon: When God is Quiet (1 Kings 19:9-18) Sermon Series: Interior Re-design: Making Space for God

Sermon-based Study Guide Sermon: When God is Quiet (1 Kings 19:9-18) Sermon Series: Interior Re-design: Making Space for God Sermon-based Study Guide Sermon: When God is Quiet (1 Kings 19:9-18) Sermon Series: Interior Re-design: Making Space for God LET S REVIEW 1. What are 1 or 2 key truths you take away from this sermon? DIGGING

More information

Let us join in celebration. We have been invited to. and. As their friends and families, we form a. In keeping with this natural setting, let us be

Let us join in celebration. We have been invited to. and. As their friends and families, we form a. In keeping with this natural setting, let us be 1 The Ashcroft Wedding Welcome Let us join in celebration. We have been invited to share the joy of this day with and. As their friends and families, we form a community to celebrate their love and witness

More information

Ramona Miller OSF, IFC-TOR Conference, May 9, 2017 PRAYER

Ramona Miller OSF, IFC-TOR Conference, May 9, 2017 PRAYER PRAYER This morning, feeling fearful about giving a presentation on prayer to major religious superiors, I remembered a novitiate experience, which gives me confidence to proceed. Young, and intimidated

More information

QUIET TIME GUIDELINES *

QUIET TIME GUIDELINES * QUIET TIME GUIDELINES * Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law... Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. Psalm 119:18; 54:2 Here is a simple truth about spiritual vitality:

More information

Love Contents Prayer leader introduction note. Prayer handout sheet. Prayer outline.

Love Contents Prayer leader introduction note. Prayer handout sheet. Prayer outline. Love Contents Prayer leader introduction note. Prayer handout sheet. Prayer outline. Dear Prayer Leader, Thanks-you for leading this prayer on the charism of Love. A charism is like a living gift. It is

More information

~ Home work Self Work ~

~ Home work Self Work ~ ~ Home work Self Work ~ Describe Your Realistic dreams and plans in Life Prepare the beginnings of a Personal Journal The writings one lays down helps to solidify ones understanding, Then By expanding

More information

Service Simplicity Community

Service Simplicity Community PRAYER Service Simplicity Community Opening Prayer My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself,

More information

May 2011 Clarke University. The Hopes and Fears of the monks and nuns of the Order concerning Lay Cistercians

May 2011 Clarke University. The Hopes and Fears of the monks and nuns of the Order concerning Lay Cistercians May 2011 Clarke University The Hopes and Fears of the monks and nuns of the Order concerning Lay Cistercians I recall the last time I was with the Lay Cistercians of our Order was at Conyers in 2002. It

More information

Communion of Saints-Treasure in Heaven

Communion of Saints-Treasure in Heaven Sixth Grade: Lessons One & Two Communion of Saints-Treasure in Heaven Lesson Objective: Students will be able to describe how each vocation allows a person to know God and make God known. Lesson Assessment:

More information

Awakening Feminine. the new. Spirit. Meditation

Awakening Feminine. the new. Spirit. Meditation We are here today to love To reconnect To open and feel To breathe and sense To cry and laugh To unleash resistance and say, No and Yes To give our voice to the world Our body to the Universe To release

More information

Profile of an OCDS P. Aloysius Deeney, OCD

Profile of an OCDS P. Aloysius Deeney, OCD Profile of an OCDS P. Aloysius Deeney, OCD The point of this presentation is to answer the question What are the principles that you use to discern the vocation to the Secular Order of the Discalced Carmelites?

More information

OLM Parish Family Health Ministry Lenten Program Walk with Jesus on the Road to Jerusalem

OLM Parish Family Health Ministry Lenten Program Walk with Jesus on the Road to Jerusalem OLM Parish Family Health Ministry Lenten Program Walk with Jesus on the Road to Jerusalem First Sunday of Lent Readings: Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 4:1-11 At the start of Lent, it is

More information

THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL CHAPTER 3: THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL

THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL CHAPTER 3: THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL CHAPTER 3: THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL FR. RAYMOND LAFONTAINE EPISCOPAL VICAR OF THE ENGLISH-SPEAKING FAITHFUL DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF ENGLISH PASTORAL SERVICES, ARCHDIOCESE OF MONTREAL

More information

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor

Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Cathedral Bible Study Fr. Steve Thomlison Assistant Pastor Thursday, September 2, 2010 ** PLEASE SIGN IN ** BIBLE STUDY OBJECTIVES Doctrine & Theology of the Liturgy of the Mass as found in Scripture &

More information

The Adventure of Prayer

The Adventure of Prayer Learning to Pray To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances. To seek him the greatest adventure. To find him the greatest human achievement. -St. Augustine The Adventure of Prayer As the

More information

3 THE WORD OF GOD IS THE MISSIONARY S DAILY FOOD

3 THE WORD OF GOD IS THE MISSIONARY S DAILY FOOD 3 THE WORD OF GOD IS THE MISSIONARY S DAILY FOOD Mark 4:13-20 LECTIO (what does the Word in itself say) 13 Jesus said to them, Don t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any of the

More information

The Monastic Formators Program: an introduction for a workshop at the Abbots Congress September 2016

The Monastic Formators Program: an introduction for a workshop at the Abbots Congress September 2016 The Monastic Formators Program: an introduction for a workshop at the Abbots Congress September 2016 In 1996, Prior Emanuele Bargellini, the then General of the Camaldolese, offered a challenge at the

More information

Confirmation Sponsor/Candidate Booklet

Confirmation Sponsor/Candidate Booklet Confirmation Sponsor/Candidate Booklet Christ the King Parish Dear Sponsor, Congratulations on being chosen to sponsor a Confirmation Candidate. It is an honor that someone chose you to help them prepare

More information

Angelus Prayer Card. Praying the Angelus Way. Father Vincent Doyle 25 th October Praying the Angelus Way

Angelus Prayer Card. Praying the Angelus Way. Father Vincent Doyle 25 th October Praying the Angelus Way I recommend the daily use of the Angelus Prayer Card for great blessings to come to you and to everyone that you pray for. Sharing in Mary s Consecration opens us up to the depths of her mission with a

More information

am convinced that contemplation is the most radical thing that we can teach and live.

am convinced that contemplation is the most radical thing that we can teach and live. I am convinced that contemplation is the most radical thing that we can teach and live. Fr. Richard Rohr O.F.M. 1 Getting started So, you re tired. You re deeply in need of rest, and not just a nap. It

More information

The Spiritual Practice of Lectio Divina Worship Script

The Spiritual Practice of Lectio Divina Worship Script The Spiritual Practice of Lectio Divina Worship Script Gathering Music Welcome Ringing of the Bowl Invite to Interfaith Sanctuary Celebration next week Introduce Lectio Divina and contemplation Centering

More information

Radiant Self-Care Guide

Radiant Self-Care Guide Radiant Self-Care for Ease-full, Empowered and Awakened Living Radiant Self-Care Guide Session 1 Daily Strategies Supportive of Conscious Self-Care for Living in Balance 1. Meditation and Prayer Foundational

More information

Time for God Book Discussion Guide

Time for God Book Discussion Guide Time for God Book Discussion Guide Suggestions for your book discussion group time: You could begin with some sessions with Lectio Divina (see How to Pray a Gospel Reflection on the Program Support page

More information

United in Prayer Day "Healing Violence" March 17, Sample Schedule and Format for a Group Retreat Day with suggested audio and video segments

United in Prayer Day Healing Violence March 17, Sample Schedule and Format for a Group Retreat Day with suggested audio and video segments United in Prayer Day "Healing Violence" March 17, 2018 Sample Schedule and Format for a Group Retreat Day with suggested audio and video segments This is a suggested format and schedule for a group day

More information

THE COINDRE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Forming Mentors in the Educational Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart

THE COINDRE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Forming Mentors in the Educational Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart THE COINDRE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Forming Mentors in the Educational Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart Directed Reading # 18 Leadership in Transmission of Charism to Laity Introduction Until the

More information

The Emerging Consciousness of a new Humanity

The Emerging Consciousness of a new Humanity The Emerging Consciousness of a new Humanity The following gives definition to the new consciousness that is emerging upon our planet and some of its prominent qualifying characteristics. Divine Relationship

More information

The Spiritual Journey Formation in the Contemplative Christian Life

The Spiritual Journey Formation in the Contemplative Christian Life The Spiritual Journey Formation in the Contemplative Christian Life The Four Consents, Part 1 Excerpted from The Spiritual Journey Part 3, Paradigms of the Spiritual Journey Fr. Thomas Keating THERE S

More information

THE CRUCIFIXION. Paper No. 37 January 1932 by

THE CRUCIFIXION. Paper No. 37 January 1932 by THE CRUCIFIXION Paper No. 37 January 1932 by We ask you to consider with us the last moments of Jesus physical life and the last words He spoke on the cross. While this was the crucifixion of our Saviour

More information

3 Steps that Transform Sibling Conflict into Sibling camaraderie Help kids resolve minor disputes without playing judge or jury.

3 Steps that Transform Sibling Conflict into Sibling camaraderie Help kids resolve minor disputes without playing judge or jury. 3 Steps that Transform Sibling Conflict into Sibling camaraderie Help kids resolve minor disputes without playing judge or jury. My two kids, now ages 4 and 9, seem to have lots of minor conflicts. They

More information

Class #5 Life of Prayer Overview Goals: Resources. Glossary (Words to know)

Class #5 Life of Prayer Overview Goals: Resources. Glossary (Words to know) Class #5 Life of Prayer Overview Prayer, personal and communal, is a relationship with the divine Other, who is also the foundation of the Christian life. There are many forms of prayer, such as prayers

More information

Therese of Lisieux. Look at Him. He never takes his eyes off you.

Therese of Lisieux. Look at Him. He never takes his eyes off you. Therese of Lisieux Prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned towards heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy. Teresa of Avila Prayer is an intimate

More information

LEADER S GUIDE, Habit 3: Scripture Habit 3: It s More Than A Book Going deeper with Scripture

LEADER S GUIDE, Habit 3: Scripture Habit 3: It s More Than A Book Going deeper with Scripture Habit 3: It s More Than A Book Going deeper with Scripture What to Do: - Start out with prayer - Revisit their Vision and Values - Tackle and Explain Lectio Divina - Talk about the holes that might exist

More information

MUST HAVE THE WORKING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

MUST HAVE THE WORKING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Text: Acts 2:1-11,12-18,21(NLT) On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. 2 Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled

More information

St. Augustine-in-the-Woods, Freeland, WA 22nd Sunday after Pentecost 25 October Mark 10:46-52 SEEING AGAIN

St. Augustine-in-the-Woods, Freeland, WA 22nd Sunday after Pentecost 25 October Mark 10:46-52 SEEING AGAIN St. Augustine-in-the-Woods, Freeland, WA 22nd Sunday after Pentecost 25 October 2015 Mark 10:46-52 SEEING AGAIN Rabbi, I want my sight back. I want to see again. This is a story we can t escape. The cast

More information

ST MARY S THE MOUNT 2016/2017 COME AND SEE PROGRAMME TOPIC VOCATION

ST MARY S THE MOUNT 2016/2017 COME AND SEE PROGRAMME TOPIC VOCATION ST MARY S THE MOUNT 2016/2017 COME AND SEE PROGRAMME TOPIC VOCATION THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY MOTHER OF VOCATIONS INTRODUCTION WHAT IS VOCATION WHAT IS MY VOCATION HOW CAN I DISCERN MY VOCATION CAN IT CHANGE

More information

Chapter 5. Theological Issues Impacting Pastoral Challenges

Chapter 5. Theological Issues Impacting Pastoral Challenges Chapter 5 Theological Issues Impacting Pastoral Challenges For this revelation contains deep theology and great wisdom, and is not meant for those who are enslaved by sin and the Devil. Beware of selecting

More information