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Christian Centering Prayer
Silence, Solitude, Stillness
Centering Prayer is a method of silent prayer that prepares us to receive the gift of contemplative prayer, prayer in which we experience God's presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. This method of prayer is both a relationship with God and a discipline to foster that relationship.
Centering Prayer is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer. Rather, it adds depth of meaning to all prayer and facilitates the movement from more active modes of prayer — verbal, mental or affective prayer — into a receptive prayer of resting in God. Centering Prayer emphasizes prayer as a personal relationship with God and as a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with Him. The source of Centering Prayer, as in all methods leading to contemplative prayer, is the Indwelling Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The focus of Centering Prayer is the deepening of our relationship with the living Christ. A faithful practice results in:
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A calmer mind
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A sense of feeling closer to God
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A calming of the nervous system
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More energy
Rev. Thomas Keating
Christian Meditative Prayer
Christian meditative prayer within the WCCM (World Community for Christian Meditation) refers to a form of silent, imageless, and contemplative prayer rooted in the teachings of early Christian monks, known as the Desert Fathers. Rather than focusing on scripture, asking for requests, or using thoughts, the goal is to be fully present and silently rest in the indwelling presence of God.
How to Practice WCCM Meditation
The WCCM practice focuses on simplicity, silence, and stillness. It is traditionally done twice a day for 20 to 30 minutes, following these steps: [1, 2, 3, 4]
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Get comfortable: Sit with your back straight in a quiet place.
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Close your eyes and breathe: Close your eyes lightly and relax, staying attentive and alert.
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Repeat your mantra: Silently and continuously repeat a sacred prayer word, listening to it as you say it.
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The suggested mantra: The WCCM recommends the Aramaic word "Maranatha". Meaning "Come, Lord," it is the oldest recorded Christian prayer phrase and is pronounced slowly over four equal syllables: Ma-ra-na-tha.
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Let go of thoughts: Whenever you become distracted, simply return to your mantra without judgment.