What to Expect

Soft, contemplative music and candle-lit presence welcome us into Centering Prayer each week. We are gently guided into the prayer by a brief body scan and a short, contemplative reading.

Following our 20-minute silent prayer, we often engage in related contemplative practices, such as Lectio Divina and Ignatian Imaginative Prayer. We also occasionally read and discuss contemplative thought leaders. 

These practices open us to God’s active presence in our lives, grounding us in living from a deeper reality as the world rapidly changes around us.

What to Expect

On Thursday evenings, we gather in a warm candlelit setting for centering prayer. Once a month we engage in the practice of lectio divina. We begin at 6:30 with a short relaxation practice leading into a 20-minute period of silent prayer. Our practice is guided by the four principles established by Thomas Keating and Contemplative Outreach:

1. Choose a sacred word or breath to symbolize your intention to consent to God's presence

2, Sit comfortably with eyes closed

3. Gently return to the sacred word or breath whenever you notice your thoughts

4. Remain in silence for a few minutes at the end of the prayer period

After our 20 minute sit, we typically listen to contemplative teachings and participate in meaningful discussions. Everyone is welcome to share their reflections, but speaking is entirely optional. Newcomers to the centering prayer practice are always  welcome. We conclude at 7:30.