Centering Prayer

Guided Meditation

Centering Prayer is a silent prayer practice largely taught by a Trappist monk named Father Thomas Keating. The intention of Centering Prayer is to deepen our relationship with God, the Indwelling Presence within us.

This contemplative prayer practice invites us to rest in the Presence of God based on the wisdom saying of Jesus:

“…when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret.  And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”  (Matthew 6:6)

It is recommended to practice twice each day for a minimum of 20 minutes.


Script

Meditate on your own or with a group

  • Let's take a moment to choose a sacred word for our practice. It's recommended to choose a word with one or two syllables such as: Love, Jesus, Yes, Peace, Mercy, Let Go, Today, etc.
    (pause for a few moments)
  • Sitting comfortably with your back straight, go ahead and close your eyes. Bring an awareness to this practice of contemplative prayer, and the intention to be present with God.
  • Now, silently introduce your sacred word as the symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within.
  • When a thought, emotion, or sensation, image, or reflection arises, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word. You may experience disruption, and that's okay! Each interruption is yet another opportunity to return to the Indwelling Presence, to conscious participation with God.
    (Ring a bell three times and set a timer for 20 minutes)
  • (After the 20 minutes is complete, ring a bell once more remain in silence for a few moments)
  • Open your eyes when you are ready. Thank you for practicing with me.


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