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.

Ways to enter into contemplative prayer: Part 2

Benedictine: Lectio Divina. This ancient Christian prayer method uses the Bible or other suitable reading material. It is universal to all people and is appropriate for private contemplation or for use in groups. Extroverts love it, because it provides them with an order of action. Introverts appreciate it because it is slow and allows them silent contemplation.

Method:

• First Stage: Lectio (reading)
Read the word of God slowly and reflectively. Any passage can be used but it should not be too lengthy.

• Second Stage: Meditatio (reflection)
Reflect on the text in order to discern God’s message to you.

• Third Stage: Oratio (response)
Inspired by your reflection from stage two, leave your thoughts aside and allow your heart to speak with God.

• Forth Stage: Contemplatio (rest)
Sit silently and rest in the word of God

Click here for an excellent source of suitable readings and guidance following the liturgical calendar. You will want to click on the current month listed on the left side of the page to locate the current reading.

Read Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B.'s step-by-step guide on Lectio Divina.

Finally, click this link to view a video of Fr. James Martin S.J., author of My Life with the Saints, explaining Lectio Divina with a specific reading.