Second in a series of ministry profiles to inform parishioners about the many stewardship opportunities at Christ The King
While many of our stewardship ministries have been in place for many years, some Support Group Ministries have been launched more recently to address an emerging Parish interest or need.
The “Centering Prayer” practice is inspired by the notion that the use of silent prayer and reflection help deepen relationship-building with God just as we devote time to build and deepen relationships with loved ones and friends. Father Thomas Keating, internationally recognized theologian and central figure in the initiation of the “Centering Prayer,” points out that this form of silent relationship-building results in eventually “enjoying each other’s presence without saying anything,” a similar opportunity we can experience with God.
Ministry Specifics – Since June of 2022, some 8 to 12 parishioners meet every Saturday at 9:00 am using silent prayer and the gospel reading for that weekend’s Masses as instruments to strengthen their personal relationships with God. The Group meets in front of the church tabernacle or uses the home of one of its members as an alternative site when there is a conflict with the liturgical schedule.
The Group begins their session with an opening prayer and twenty minutes of silent adoration i.e. “Centering.” The gospel is then read three times, twice followed by four minutes of prayerful reflection and a third time followed by word or phrase sharing inspired from the gospel reading, thematic connections derived from one’s own life experience or from the Centering prayer practice.
Where Participants Are Welcomed
- New participants are very much welcomed to join this prayer group