How I Pray: Lectio Divina

My approach is especially useful for singles and parents who can accommodate 15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time during the day or evening. It comes from the Benedictine monastic tradition called Lectio Divina. Sometimes it may be hard to formulate the words that express the intentions of our heart, or our faith may not tenaciously grasp onto God’s promises toward us. This method uses Scripture as the framework, and we open our hearts and minds towards a particular phrase, word, or image embedded in the Scripture.

Step 1. LECTIO (Reading): Read the passage slowly, if possible, read out loud. Listen closely. Do certain words, phrases, or images capture your attention? Are you attracted or do you experience some resistance? Read it a second time, and choose a word or phrase that stands out to you.

Step 2. MEDITATIO (Meditation): Turn that one word or phrase that stands out to you over in your mind and heart. What does it mean? What feelings are stirred up? Where does it connect with your life right now?

Step 3. ORATIO (Prayer): How has God addressed you in this Word and invited you to respond? Talk to God by sharing your thoughts and feelings. Ask, “Why does this stand out to me?” “What are you trying to teach me?”

Step 4 CONTEMPLATIO (Contemplation): Rest quietly in God’s arms. No words are necessary at this point. Then, take a moment of silence. Try to slow your thoughts and focus on the presence of God. Take, a deep breath and pray the Our Father, Sign of the Cross, or Glory Be to bring your time of Lectio to a close.

I hope that as you pray the Scriptures, you find true meaning and joy in them, and open up a new form of intimacy with God through this approach.

Collins Hunter

Collins is a cantor and a member of the Adult Choir. He became a Catholic at the Easter Vigil several years ago, and is always ready to greet visitors to our parish with a smile and a handshake.