Centering Prayer is a simple practice of consenting to the presence and action of God within.
There are four simple guidelines:
1. Choose a prayer 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 a symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within.
3. When you become aware you are ENGAGED with your thoughts, return ever so gently to the prayer word.
4. At the end of the prayer period remain in silence with eyes closed for 2-3 minutes.
If you are just beginning, I recommend you start doing this for about 5-10 minutes. Then gradually build up to 20 minutes. Eventually, after several weeks, try to practice for 20 minutes twice a day.
Sitting in silence, we gently let go of our thoughts and return to a sacred word as a symbol of our intention. The practice is not about emptying the mind or achieving a particular feeling, but about resting openly in God.
Over time, this regular rhythm of surrender can shape how we meet everyday life—with greater freedom, compassion and attentiveness.
Click this link to watch an introduction to Centering Prayer. It was recorded in February 2024 and lasts about 110 minutes. It will give anyone new to Centering Prayer a brief overview.
To practice with our online group in Hampshire, use the link below:
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