Stories of Faith in Real Lives
Though the great spiritual writers remind us that each such journey is as unique as the soul is unique, they also tell us that the journeys we take have similar points that can be an inspiration to others. In the spirit of faith sharing, we present these personal accounts.
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I have jokingly called the St. Andrew Centering Prayer group on Monday night, my I-V for the soul. The spiritual nourishment and encouragement I receive each week has been life-giving and transforming over the past four years I have attended these gatherings.
It’s very hard to put into words how sitting in silence and letting go of my constant thoughts can make such a difference, but I have found that the fruits of this practice become clear when I am faced with the challenges of life. I am able to stay a little calmer and tap into God’s source of strength and guidance. I highly encourage this wonderful contemplative practice and gleaning the wisdom from this special group.
Mary June Jones
I come to Centering Prayer because the spiritual experience we share has become essential to my being.
Sandy Schneider
I’m a human Being – but I find myself acting like a human Doing much of the time.
The Prayer of Quiet invites me to set aside busyness a few minutes each day. I don’t try to stop thoughts from coming into my awareness, but I’m invited to postpone thinking about them until after the prayer time.I find these daily vacations from busyness refreshing – it helps me find the time and motivation to love my neighbor.
The Prayer of Quiet has helped me grow as a catholic Christian.
John Kelsey
Centering Prayer has changed my life. Perhaps, more accurately, I should say it has changed my attitude, my perspective.
The simple, silent resting in God has enabled me to live within change, sorrow, great joy, ordinariness and above all the mystery of life with a certainty of God’s presence. I like loose ends tied up and so many are always dangling! But the chaos doesn’t scare or defeat me anymore. The joy is even richer. I know God is with me, abiding.
Judi Gaitens