Lectio divina when you are alone

Bible candle2
When can I enter, and see the face of God? (Psalm 42:2)

Lectio and meditatio 1
Read the passage slowly, silently or aloud, and take a few minutes for silent reflection.
*  Now identify a word or phrase that catches your attention.
*  In your journal, write down any words that touch you.

Lectio and meditatio 2
Read the passage slowly a second time, and again take a few minutes for reflection.
Ask yourself, “How does this passage speak to my life today?”
Write down your response.

Lectio and meditatio 3
Read the passage a third time, and once again take a few minutes for reflection.
Ask yourself, “What do I believe God wants me to do or be? Is God inviting me to change in any way?”
* Write down your response.

Oratio and contemplatio
*  Conclude with prayer (not a prayer of words, but a time of remaining open to the Spirit who has spoken to you through the Scripture).
*  You may wish to write down thoughts, images, and insights that came in your time of prayer.

Lectio Divina for Groups

Lectio Divina, or ‘Holy Reading’, is an ancient monastic practice – a slow, meditative way of prayerfully reading a passage from Holy Scripture.

When a group comes together for Lectio Divina, greet each other warmly and then find  comfortable places to sit.  Choose one member of the group to be leader or time-keeper.  Then let the silence of the Spirit settle upon you during the opening (centering) prayer.

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Praying with Biblical Images

Poetic Biblical Images *

Candle scripture

 Lectio Divina, or ‘Holy Reading’, is an ancient monastic practice – a slow, meditative way of prayerfully reading a passage from Holy Scripture.

(1)  Lectio: Read the passage slowly and quietly.  Give it time to open within you.

(2)  Meditatio: Reflect upon what the passage says to you.

(3)  Oratio: Respond by writing down whatever has entered your spirit.  When you are finished, circle a word or phrase that jumps out from what you have written.

(4)  Contemplatio:  Rest with your word or phrase, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to your spirit.

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