Contents of this page:
1. Contemplative prayer definition
2. Some methods of centering prayer
3. Guidelines
4. Some practical points

We may think of prayer as thoughts or feelings expressed in words. But this is only one expression. Contemplative prayer is the opening of mind and heart - our whole being - to God, the Ultimate Mystery, beyond thoughts, words, and emotions. We open our awareness to the God whom we know by faith is within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than choosing - closer than consciousness itself.

Centering prayer is a method designed to facilitate contemplative prayer by preparing our senses to cooperate with this gift. It presents the teaching of an earlier time (e.g., The Cloud of Unknowing) in an updated form. It is not meant to replace prayer; it simply puts other kinds of prayer into a new and fuller perspective.

1. Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action within.
2. Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly and silently introduce the sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action with.
3. When you become aware of thoughts, return ever - so - gently to the sacred word.
4. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes.

1. A few examples of the sacred word are Lord, Jesus, Father, Mother, rest, peace, love; or in other languages, Kyrie, Jesus, Abba, Amma.
2. "Thoughts" is an umbrella term for any sense perception including feelings, images, sounds, memories, and reflections. Thoughts are a normal part of centering prayer.
3. The minimum time for this prayer is 20 minutes. Two periods are recommended each day, one first thing in the morning, and one in the afternoon or early evening.
4. Joining a Centering Prayer Support Group that prays and shares together once a week helps establish one’s relationship to Christ through prayer. COMW maintains a list of such groups in the Washington area.

If you would like more information, COMW can be reached at:
Phone/voice mail: (202) 255-2367
Fax: (202) 387-5228
Email: COMW@EROLS.COM

The above article is used with permission.

May the God who brought you to this webpage bless you in life over and above your deepest hopes and greatest expectations. May God bless you with serenity, peace and joy. Amen.