What is "centering prayer"? Can it lead to contemplation? Do I need to pray to be saved? Dan and Melissa discuss these questions and more as they reflect on the book Finding God Through Meditation by St Peter of Alcántara.
Topics/Questions covered in the show:
Is contemplation the same thing as centering prayer? Can contemplation be attained or prepared for through the centering prayer method? What does the Catholic Church say about centering prayer? What's wrong with the concept of "letting thoughts go"? Is prayer necessary for salvation? What does St Bonaventure say about prayer? How do I become holy? How does mental prayer help keep us on "the narrow way" to holiness? Prayer as a means of keeping our spiritual vision clear. Does a life of faith without prayer make any sense?Resources:
Finding God Through Meditation – St. Peter of Alcántara Finding God Through Meditation ebook - St. Peter of Alcántara Divine Intimacy Radio on spiritualdirection.com website Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation EWTN Religious Catalogue - online Can Centering Prayer be Redeemed? - Post on spiritualdirection.com by Dan Burke Infused Contemplation - Definition, post on spiritualdirection.com The Vatican on Christian Meditation and Centering Prayer - Post on spritualdirection.com Navigating the Interior Life (for the book in Spanish: Navegando La Vida Interior -- click here) - Dan Burke The Buddha Pill: Can Meditation Change You? - Miguel Farias and Catherine Wikholm Matthew 7:13-14 - The Narrow Gate (The Narrow Way)- USCCB Bible link Lectio Divina, A Guide: What It Is & How It Helps Prayer Life - Post on spiritual direction.com Onething 2015 - Dan Burke speaking engagement, along with Audrey Assad, in Kansas City (Dec. 28-31) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 - "May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - USCCB Bible link Questions? Send an e-mail to Questions@myavila.com or call 818-646-7729.