"Centering Prayer” at Saint Robert Bellarmine Parish

What are you doing Saturday morning at 8:00? Looking for a blessing?  Do you want to explore or rediscover your spiritual relationship with Christ? You are welcome to participate and experience the blessings of the Holy Spirit through Centering Prayer.

A small and  welcoming group of parishioners gathers in Fr. Jacob’s Library for  Contemplative, or “resting in God,” Prayer.  Originally convened and taught by Sr. Irene Koszarek, SSJ-TOSF, since 1999, this group continues to “rest in God” and grow with the Holy Spirit.

 

Shortly after 8:00, while participants silently “rest in the presence of God,” the Gospel for the coming Sunday is read aloud by one of the members.  Participants continue in contemplative silence, pondering a spoken Gospel word, or Gospel phrase which captured their attention. 

After 20 minutes of contemplation, participants may choose to share their particular word or phrase with the still silent, contemplating group. By 8:35 AM participants have returned to awareness of the room and may choose to share personal insights about the spoken Word, or phrase from the Gospel that attracted them. Respect for the dignity and sanctity of each participant is expected and honored. 

After sharing and discussion, information about the culture in which Christ lived and insights on the Gospel are read from books written by John Pilch, known authority on Mediterranean life.

Personal prayers of thanksgiving and petition are offered as the group concludes and goes forth to share their good news. The Centering Prayer Group dismisses by 9:00 AM.

Contact Jo VandenBerg or Don Stevens (659-0341) for more information.