centering prayer basics

1. Choose a sacred word as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action within. Your sacred word could be anything from “Peace” to “Jesus” to “Welcome.” You can also choose to focus on your breath instead of using a sacred word.

2. Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle yourself and silently introduce the sacred word (or your breath) 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 or breath.

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

For more information see www.contemplativeoutreach.org