Centering Prayer
Advent is the season of waiting and preparing for the celebration of Christ’s coming into the world. What an excellent time to practice silent centering prayer and Lectio Divina (divine reading), reflection and responding to scripture. We invite you to take a break from constant activity. Come and spend time in community, resting in God’s presence, opening your mind and heart to God, the Ultimate Mystery. All are welcome.
Please note the revised schedule for December.
Sunday, December 21, 5:30 p.m., Contemplation and Comfort
Sunday, December 28, 5:30 p.m.
“The Word became flesh and made his home among us.
We have seen his glory, glory like that of a father’s only son,
full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Centering Prayer, Contemplation and Comfort, December 21
For many, the Christmas season is a time for festive celebrations with family and friends. Yet others may find it difficult to find joy amid loss, illness, loneliness, and anxiety. At such times, it’s important to remember that we are not alone.
On Sunday, December 21 at 5:30 p.m., our Centering Prayer contemplation will focus on God’s presence when we are struggling or carrying heavy burdens. All are welcome. Come and rest in God. Come and listen to scripture with the ear of your heart. Come and know the light of God’s love that shines in the darkness.
Afterwards, we will share light refreshments.
“Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God.” – Isaiah 40:1
As an invitation, the Centering Prayer service configuration will be left up in the Fellowship Hall. “Come and see” the area where some of your fellow church and community members gather every Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m. --for twenty minutes of silent Centering Prayer followed by Lectio Divina (Divine Reading). All are welcome to use this space!
Be still and know that I am God -Psalm 46:10
Centering Prayer is meant to enrich and complement other forms of prayer, not to exclude or replace them. Centering Prayer is a form of Christian contemplative prayer, described by Thomas Merton as “finding one’s deepest center, awakening us in the presence of God.” This contemplative practice dates to the early church (4th-century) and includes extended periods of silence, experienced in community.
JPC’s community Centering Prayer group will gather weekly year-round, following a simple format that includes scripture readings, excerpts from the writings of various authors, a twenty-minute silent sit, and spoken prayer. All are welcome – including newcomers. Come and see!
Our Centering Prayer facilitators will rotate among Lee Clements, Becky Keeler, Mark McCalman, and Justin Reilly. If you would like to learn more about Centering Prayer, contact the church office or one of the facilitators in-person.
Centering Prayer Schedule at Jonesborough Presbyterian Church:
When? Sunday 5:30 p.m. Approximately 45 mins.
Where? Fellowship Hall @ 128 W. Main St (In-person)
Resource Links for Centering Prayer & Contemplative Practice: Center for Action and Contemplation
A Coaching Session on Centering Prayer - Jim Finley
The Method - Cynthia Bourgeault
“The great thing is prayer. Prayer itself. If you want a life of prayer, the way to get it is by praying . . . Everything has been given to us in Christ. All we need is to experience what we already possess.”
-Thomas Merton
-Thomas Merton