Contemplate Your Lenten Journey
As we continue our Lenten observance of simplifying our lives in order to find abundance in God, contemplative prayer offers a beautiful path towards simplicity. This prayer form focuses on silence and resting in God's presence, emphasizing quieting the mind and heart to connect deeply with God. It involves techniques like mediating on a sacred word or phrase, mindful breathing, or sitting in silence to reduce distractions. The goal is to be present with God, leading to spiritual growth and insight, resulting in peace and clarity over time.
During Lent, contemplative prayer offers adults a chance for reflection and connection with God, helping them reflect on their lives and to find peace. For children, it can be introduced through guided imagery, Bible stories, or nature walks, fostering a sense of wonder and a lifelong discovery of faith.
When families practice contemplative prayer together, especially during Lent, it strengthens spiritual bonds and creates a shared purpose. This communal practice teaches the value of setting aside time for God, leading to transformative experiences and a closer relationship with God and each other.
“If the salvation of society depends, in the long run, on the moral and spiritual health of individuals, the subject of contemplation becomes a vastly important one, since contemplation is one of the indications of spiritual maturity. It is closely allied to sanctity. You cannot save the world merely with a system. You cannot have peace without charity. You cannot have social order without saints, mystics and prophets.”
-Thomas Merton
1. Find a Quiet Space and Time:
Choose a place where you can be free from distractions and interruptions.
Set aside 10-30 minutes for your practice.
2. Find a Comfortable Position:
Sit comfortably, but not so much that you fall asleep.
You can sit with your eyes closed or gently focused on a point.
3. Choose a Sacred Word or Phrase:
Select a word or phrase that resonates with you, such as "Lord," "God," "Jesus," or "Peace".
This word will serve as a focus for your prayer.
4. Begin the Practice:
Close your eyes and settle into a state of quiet.
Slow down your breathing, focusing on the breath entering and leaving your body.
Gently bring your attention to your sacred word or phrase.
When thoughts arise, gently acknowledge them and return your focus to the sacred word.
5. Rest in God's Presence:
Allow yourself to rest in the silence and stillness.
Be open to any thoughts, feelings, or images that may arise.
Don't try to force a particular experience, but simply be present with God.
6. End the Practice:
When your time is up, gently bring yourself back to awareness.
Take a few moments to savor the experience before getting up.
Tips for Success:
Be Patient: Contemplative prayer takes practice, so don't get discouraged if you find it difficult at first.
Be Consistent: Regular practice will help you develop a deeper connection with God.
Don't Judge Yourself: There is no right or wrong way to pray contemplatively.
LENTEN OFFERINGS
Join us for Mass this weekend
in person at 4:00 PM on Saturday, 8:30 or 10:30 AM on Sunday, on www.gbres.org/live, our YouTube channel, and our Facebook page.
READINGS FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MASSES
VIRTUALLY SUNDAY REFLECTION
The beauty of a night sky illustrates the vastness of God's creation and our place within it. Our faith calls us to look beyond our immediate circumstances. We are to embrace into those moments of clarity that guide us through dark times and to trust in God's promises. We must live with hope and purpose, recognizing our eternal destiny in the context of our faith journey. Join Fr. Tim as he reflects on this weekend's scripture readings.
FAMILIES
WEEKLY BULLETIN
(click to read)
PARISH LYCEUM
The Parish Lyceum will feature a variety of topics, guidelines, and relevant information to nurture the PIESS of our lives – physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social.
Katie and Tony break open the song
"Solsbury Hill" by Peter Gabriel
for the second Sunday of Lent.
Lyrics:
Climbing up on Solsbury Hill
I could see the city light
Wind was blowing, time stood still
Eagle flew out of the night
He was something to observe
Came in close, I heard a voice
Standing, stretching every nerve
I had to listen, had no choice
I did not believe the information
Just had to trust imagination
My heart going "Boom-boom-boom"
"Son, " he said
"Grab your things, I've come to take you home"
Hey, back home
Available at the main church entrance or online
RECENT LOSS IN OUR PARISH FAMILY
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ongoing Events
Ruby and Res
Storytime with Ruby!
A good book and a back scratch, who could ask for more?
Comentarios