Lectio Divina: Prayerful Reading of Scripture Part Two

Joanne Kollasch, OSBBenedictine Reflections 1 Comment

As we choose spiritual practices for Lent, we might consider the practice of lectio divina, the prayerful reading of Scripture. (See part 1) This slow reflective reading may be done alone or within a group. The method of lectio divina is often referred to as fourfold: lectio (reading the text), meditatio (reflecting and meditating on the text), oratio (praying from the text) and contemplatio (deep contemplation of the text). “Reading as it were, puts food whole into the mouth, meditation chews it and breaks it up, prayer extracts its flavor, contemplation is the sweetness itself which gladdens and refreshes.” (Guigo …

Lectio Divina: Prayerful Reading of Scripture Part One 

Joanne Kollasch, OSBBenedictine Reflections 2 Comments

During Lent it may help to have a prayer in your pocket. One that you can pull out on a moment’s notice.  A prayer I keep close at hand, and “at heart” is Psalm 23, “A Prayer of David,” commonly called “The Good Shepherd Psalm.” This psalm can become a spiritual resource especially if it arises from the practice of lectio divina.  Lectio divina literally means divine or holy reading. This is a way of putting on the mind of God. By absorbing the Word of God we let the divine scripture penetrate deeply so that we may be transformed by divine …

Living into Silence: Contemplative Practices for Lent

Holy Wisdom Monastery Leave a Comment

March 9, 16, 23, 30, 2022 Wednesdays, 6:30-7:15 pm via Zoom New to Lent or contemplative practices? All are welcome to learn the basics of spiritual practices in this virtual series. Together, let’s lean away from the stress of life, focus on your personal needs so you can be present to yourself and others, nurture your spirit and learn how to use silence. Cost: $25 for 4 session series.    

figure kneeling in prayer with Holy Spirit hovering above

The power of God’s sustaining presence

Lynne Smith, OSBBuilding Community, Homilies, Living in Community Leave a Comment

We enter into Holy Week with millions of people suffering in Syria, in South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and so many other places in our world. As I reflected on Jesus’ suffering on the cross, I wondered what help and hope the crucifixion and resurrection gives us. I find that hope and help in the silent presence of God even in the midst of suffering. Often it is only in looking back that we can see that Presence in times of suffering. Occasionally we experience this sustaining Presence in the moment.   _______________________________  Palm Sunday/Passion Sunday homily                                         Lynne Smith, OSB …

Good Friday

Car McGinley Leave a Comment

Service at 3:00 pm All gather in silence. The liturgy features Four Passages from the Passion of John each followed by a short reflection. With simple chant, the cross is brought into the midst of the community. Through the veneration of the cross and prayers of intercession, we respond to the Passion of Jesus.