We find the words of Trappist monk, Father Thomas Keating, especially affirming in consideration of his compelling contemplative life:
The Gospel is the core of Christian living. It has within it a contemplative dimension. This dimension is God’s invitation to every human being, through Jesus Christ, to share God’s very nature…This contemplative consciousness bonds each person in a union with God and with all other persons.
Fr. Thomas Keating
Through the practice of meditation, or contemplative prayer, we can begin to develop a more profound relationship with God and develop a deeper dimension of our faith. If you are seeking a deeper connection to the Divine in each of us, you are invited to join Hillcrest’s Christian Meditation group.
Christian Meditation groups lend support to those on a spiritual journey who are searching for their own personal consciousness of divinity or connection to God. Meditating in small groups provides many benefits to the individual seeker:
- Encouragement from fellow seekers in a caring community
- Companionship that supports the sharing of experiences, ideas, feelings, stumbling blocks
- Guidance in learning new techniques
- Opportunities for growth in one’s idea of or capacity to relate to the Holy.
- Nourishment attained from an ever-deepening spirituality
Our gatherings may include day long retreats, silence, music, chanting, Qigong, breathing exercises, Scripture readings, and walking meditations.
Specific explorations have included:
- Centering Prayer (silent prayer to enter into a deeper relationship with God)
- Lectio divina (praying the Scriptures)
- Intercessory prayer/distant healing
- Jesus as a Wisdom teacher
- Writings from the mystics
- Walking the labyrinth
Due to the COVID 19 Pandemic, meditation groups are meeting virtually. Contact us for more information.