Ways to enter into contemplative prayer: Part 4

Thomistic Prayer: The Path of Intellect. Method of Thomas Aquinas. This is logical, intuitive, analytical and results in a logical conclusion or action. The prayer answers some or all of these questions, What, Why, How, Who, Where, When, and With What Assistance? The result of this type of prayer is “metanoia,” a change of heart. About 12% of the population would consider themselves Thomistic prayers.

Method

Take any virtue - for example, humility, Alternative: select a story from scripture and focus on a virtue or positive aspect of one of the characters.

1. Reflect. What does it (the virtue or positive aspect) mean?


2. What is the connection between (humility) and authenticity?


3. What did Jesus say about (humility)?


4. Who are good biblical examples of (humility)?


5. Examine your own (humility)


6. What should I do to be more like this?


7. End with a prayer to Jesus for the gift of the virtue.

Ways to enter into contemplative prayer: Part 3

Augustinian Prayer: The Path of Devotion.
Augustinian prayer is imaginative. It allows a dialogue between the one praying and God via the application of scripture to one’s personal situation. This method appeals to open minded creative, and optimistic people. Journalers, writers and public speakers find Augustinian prayer compounds and enhances their ability to put words to everyday experiences. However, individuals who are sensitive to inclusive language may get stuck on gender terms used in scripture and will want to actively attend to step 2 of the method.

Method

1. Pick a Psalm (i.e. a psalm where Yahweh is speaking to Israel would be good). Alternative: select a suitable reading from scripture where the message is being directed to a particular individual or community.


2. When reading the Psalm, instead of using the word "Israel", replace it with your own name; when reading another passage from scripture imagine you are the audience to which the message is being directed.


3. Get in touch with your feelings as you are addressed (note especially feelings of peace, consolation, protection, security, love, tenderness, etc.)


4. Reflect on what this prayer experience means for you personally today. Keep a journal, sketchbook or other record of your reflections.