Centering Prayer
Be still and know that I am God.—Psalm 46:10
“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 of the Desert Mothers and Fathers 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 inviting a relationship with God and a regular practice and discipline to foster that relationship. This method of prayer is a movement beyond conversation with Christ to community with Christ.”
from The Method of Centering Prayer: The Prayer of Consent brochure by Thomas Keating, published by Contemplative Outreach, Ltd.
A typical hour-long group experience of Centering Prayer includes time for introductions and welcoming, a short spiritual reading, 20 minutes of silent Centering Prayer, followed by worship-sharing, and other concerns of those gathered (prayers of need, joys, etc.).
Typically all Centering Prayer groups in Maryland and Washington, DC are officially recognized and supported by a Contemplative Outreach coordinating group, The Contemplative Outreach of Maryland and Washington (COMW). Centering Prayer Groups are open to anyone of any faith denomination interested in developing and practicing silent contemplative prayer: “the opening of mind and heart to God, the Ultimate Mystery, beyond thoughts, words and emotions.”
Regular sessions of contemplative prayer will be held on Tuesdays from 11:00am-12:00pm (with the exception of the first Tuesday of each month) at Sandy Spring Friends Meeting in the School House. Park at the Lyceum (17801 Meeting House Road, white building with green roof), walk around the back, and follow the path to the small house with the red roof.
Questions? Email cpfacilitator_ssfm@gmail.com.
Resources for Further Information
Contemplative Outreach of Maryland and Washington
Contemplative Outreach Website
John Yungblut, On Hallowing One’s Diminishments, Pendle Hill Pamphlet 292