Centering Prayer

The doorway to the miraculous is open.

Try living in the moment with Christ through the practice of Centering Prayer.

This ancient form of prayer basically boils down to two main things: to release and to receive. Every morning, allow yourself at least 10 minutes (20 minutes is the eventual goal) to practice being SILENT in the holy presence of God. You are cultivating interior stillness as you simply abide.

Start by prayerfully releasing your cares and concerns into his hands. Give up control and remember that He knows everything. You can trust him completely.

God will do more for us than we could ever hope for or imagine.

Eph. 3:20

With your eyes closed, rest in the loving arms of Jesus. Listen for his voice. Allow whatever comes up to come up. When distracting thoughts arise, notice them, then let them go. Keep returning your focus to the abiding presence of God. That is enough. Receive him. Nurture the expectation that goodness and mercy shall follow you, as you follow Christ.

Such periods of silence are deeply healing.

Yet most of us have grown accustomed to, and perhaps even addicted to, our smartphones, earbuds, electronic games, and streamed videos. We hide from our inner guidance and intuition by constantly tuning into external entertainment.

Without time to ponder, the mind becomes anxious and overwhelmed. The soul longs to retreat into the pastoral dwelling places of God. Know that your body is the temple where you shall find his radiant peace.

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, Jesus said to his disciples, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest".

Mark 6:31

For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.

Psalm 62:1-2

Testimonials

What people in the Centering Prayer group at St. Philip’s Church are saying about the fruits of their practice:
  • A.G.K.
    Centering Prayer has transformed my life in ways that I never dreamed possible. It offers that “peace that surpasses understanding” and a palpable, visceral experience with the Lord that you don’t forget. It is the perfect gift and it never stops giving. Praise God!
    A.G.K.
  • J.W.
    The practice of Centering Prayer is so enriching! What a beautiful way to draw close to the Lord. It strengthens my faith and soothes my soul. I find I can draw upon this connection throughout my day. This practice is a blessing in so many ways!
    J.W.
  • R.P.
    This is the most transformative prayer practice that I have ever experienced. Instead of anxiously asking God for his help, I have learned to release all things into his loving hands and focus my thoughts on abiding in the presence of Christ.
    R.P.
  • M.M.W.
    Centering Prayer has been transformational in my life over the last two years. It has helped me to quiet the “monkey” mind and build a stronger relationship with God. It is a wonderful addition to other forms of worship such as Bible studies, prayer groups, and church services.
    M.M.W.
  • W.J.W.
    During Centering Prayer, I give my mind a break from all my worries and concerns. During that quiet time with the Lord, I am more at peace and relaxed. It is like unloading a heavy pack that I have been carrying, filled with the weight of my thoughts, worries, and concerns. It has made me more aware of all the thoughts I need to let go, more aware of the worries and concerns I need to turn over to the Lord.
    W.J.W.
  • A.B.D.
    Centering Prayer has enabled me to have a much richer and deeper understanding of being one with the Holy Spirit. I often “float” through the day after our prayer sessions. And throughout the week I try to live through example of what I learned in our Centering Prayer, and it has made such a difference in all of my relationships. I’ve also learned firsthand that through suffering we become closer to God. It is that complete confidence in Him that He is in control, not I, that gives me strength and belief in the future. I wouldn’t give up this time for anything!
    A.B.D.