Education in Faith

Christian Meditation

Did you know that meditation has always been part of the Christian tradition? The Gospels tell us that Jesus himself spent long hours praying in the silence of the night or that he went up into the hills to pray before dawn. As disciples, we too are invited into this same loving communion with God. This is the essence and foundation of Christian life.

Traditionally meditation has been presented as a process with three elements:

• listening attentively to the Gospel and seeking to live it;
• understanding more fully the meaning of the Christian faith;
• the movement towards silent union in love.

The practice of meditation in the Christian tradition has four basic components. Posture, Breath, Word and Blessing.

1. Posture

Be still and know that I am God (Ps. 46:10)

Posture is an important aspect of meditation. If your body is still and relaxed, it is more likely you will be receptive to this way of deeper prayer and stillness. You may sit on the floor or on a chair with your hands resting comfortably on your knees or lap. Consciously let go of the stress and tension from your body. Close your eyes gently. If you are sitting in a chair, keep your feet firmly on the floor. Relax your shoulders…arms…neck…face. Keep your spine straight and your head level. Relax your legs and feel the stillness in your body. Be aware of any sounds in the far distance, then be aware of your heart beating. Be aware of the silence in the room.

 2. Breath

So, as you prepare to meditate, pay attention to your breathing. Become aware of the present rate of your breathing, then gently, move toward a deeper, slower and calmer rhythm. Consciousness of your breathing helps you to become more centred and still, more deeply aware of the Spirit within.

3. The Sacred Word

In Christian meditation the reciting of a word or phrase is an expression of love and faith in God’s presence. The word or phrase helps to focus and centre the mind and heart enabling us to leave behind other thoughts and worries.

Choose a short word such as: 

Jesus; God; Spirit; Amen; Maranatha; Shalom; Love; Abba; Peace; Mercy; Listen; Silence; Stillness; Faith; Trust; Calm; Yes. 

Or a phrase such as: 

I trust in you; Let it be; Jesus my friend; Do not be afraid; Letting Go; Be still; Peace be with you; Help me; God is Love; Be Still and Know that I am God.

Introduce the word or phrase gently and stay with the same one during the period of meditation. Be alert and relaxed. If you find that you are distracted by other thoughts, come back gently to your word or phrase again. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with your eyes closed for a few moments.

4. Blessing

We are called to be a ‘blessing,’ and to bless.

Catechism of the Catholic Church 1669

Meditation is a gift, a grace. By grace, the person who sits in meditation becomes a blessing to others, as though they were a candle flame placed on the lamp stand and filling the room with light. Meditation is not a selfish and solitary act. It is of benefit to the whole world.

Confirmation Parent Session

A parent information session will be held on Wednesday 19th September at 7pm in the Sts Peter and Paul's Hall.