Centering prayer is a way of praying that is, at the same time, an embodiment of one’s relationship with God and also a discipline designed to foster that relationship. It is an exercise of faith, hope, and love. It is a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion. It is the beginning of learning that prayer is not only us speaking to God, but us using silence as a time of waiting for God to speak.
The Guidelines
1. Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to be in God’s presence and to yield to the divine action.
* This should be chosen during a brief period of prayer asking the Holy Spirit to inspire us with one that is especially suitable to us. (examples might include: Lord, Jesus, Father, Mother, Grace, Savior, Friend, Love, Peace, Stillness, Calm, Faith, Yes, Trust, Shalom, Amen, etc…)
* Having chosen the sacred word, we do not change it during the prayer period, for that would be to start thinking again.
2. Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly and then silently introduce the sacred word inwardly as the symbol of your consent to God’s presence.
* Try to keep your back straight, but sitting comfortably enough as to avoid thinking about the discomfort of our bodies.
* Introduce the sacred word inwardly and gently as though you were laying a feather on a piece of absorbent cotton.
3. When you become aware of thoughts, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word.
* “Thoughts” is an umbrella term for every perception (including sense perceptions), feelings, images, memories, reflections, and commentaries.
*”Thoughts” are a normal part of Centering Prayer. During the course of the prayer, the sacred word may become vague or even disappear.
4. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes. You may recite the Lord’s Prayer or just sit quietly for 2 to 3 minutes.
(Source: Open Mind, Open Heart by Fr. Thomas Keating)
For additional resources, go to www.contemplativeprayer.com
