The ancient art of Lectio Divina was once commonplace. Perhaps because of the way we tend to run our lives these days, this practice of praying the scriptures has been largely lost. Yet it remains a powerful way to engage with the Word of God and uncover the rich levels of meaning contained in scripture.

'Lectio Divina' comes from the Latin meaning: divine reading. It encourages us to read in a particular way - not for information but to gain insights about who we are and our relationship with God. It is holy reading , prayerful reading that leads us into a new place of being.

In a series of 6 evening workshops we explored the history behind lectio divina and the steps involved in practising it. For many who attended it was a rich and rewarding time.

Lectio Divina involves four stages which are surprisingly simple to learn and natural in the way you progress through this prayerful approach to scripture:

Reading (lectio) - Slowly begin reading a biblical passage. Approach the reading as something you cherish - like a long awaited love letter. Read the passage until you hear a word or phrase that touches you, resonates, attracts or even disturbs you.

Reflecting (meditatio) - Ponder on the word or phrase for a few minutes. Let it sink in slowly and deeply until you are resting in it. Listen for what the word or phrase is saying to you at this moment in your life, what it may be offering to you, what it may be demanding of you.

Expressing (oratio) – If you are a praying person, when ready, openly and honestly express to God the prayers that arise spontaneously - triggered by your experience of the word or phrase. These may be prayers of thanksgiving, petition, intercession, lament, or praise. If you prefer, write down the thoughts that have come your way. (Some people find this valuable when they look through their prayer notes six months or a year later. Try it! You may be very surprised at the progress you make, the journey you're on and the relationship you have with God.)

Resting (contemplatio) - Allow yourself to simply rest silently for a time. Enjoy the stillness - the 'otherness' that is sacred and yours. During this time remain open to the presence of God. This is the silence of communion. It may remind you of the relationship between a mother holding her sleeping infant child or between lovers whose communication with each other passes beyond words.

Our thanks to Gert Glasius for this summary of the steps involved in Lectio Divina. More information is available here.

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