Centering Prayer is one of my contemplative practices.
Centering prayer is a form of prayer, and a way to learn how to become more open to the presence of the Holy. It is based in the understanding that God is always with us, and that when I seem to be far from God it is because I am distracting myself or getting in the way. It is prayer beyond the thoughts, words, or feelings that tend to draw my attention away. It is prayer of silent consent to God’s presence and action in my life.
One of the things I appreciate the most about centering prayer is that there are no rules. There are four guidelines, but the only way for me to make a mistake is not spending time doing it.
Centering prayer is a way for me to leave behind the clutter of expectations and requirements that get in my way. I can let go of my, conscious and unconscious, own assumptions about what God is like and what prayer should be. I can breathe deeply, release the tensions that demand my attention, and let the stresses of the world go past. I am able to rest in the silence and solitude, and stop getting in my own way.
I also talk to people about centering prayer. It is a little ironic to talk about silence.
Centering prayer helps me remember and practice what I believe to be true; remember and be what I intend.
In some ways. it is like relating to another person. As you get to know each other more intimately, you do not need to speak. You become able to know each other beyond words.
How do you become more open to the presence of the Holy?
How do you center yourself?
How do you remember and practice what you believe?
[Image by jamingray]
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