What Is Centering Prayer?

Centering Prayer is a method designed to facilitate the development of contemplative prayer by preparing our faculties to receive this gift. It presents ancient Christian wisdom teachings in an updated form. Centering Prayer is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer; rather it casts a new light and depth of meaning on them. It is at the same time a relationship with God and a discipline to foster that relationship. This method of prayer is a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with him.

The Guidelines

1] Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action within.

2] sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly and silently introduce the sacred word as the symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within.

3] When engaged with your thoughts*, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word.

4] At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes.

*thoughts include body sensations, feelings, images, and reflections

Resources

For more on Centering Prayer visit Contemplative Outreach

The Method of Centering Prayer, Part 1 Thomas Keating presents the basic method of the contemplative practice of Centering Prayer and its background.
Watch the Video

Books:

The Cloud of Unknowing, translation by Carmen Acevedo Butcher

Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, by Cynthia Bourgeault