For many years I have tried to get people I know interested in centering prayer. I have been especially keen to convince christians of my own ilk of its benefit. But the benefits of centering prayer or any contemplative prayer is not as apparent as some other spiritual practices. To be sure there are some spiritual consolations(think of them as spiritual gifts) in the beginning. But don't be fooled, spiritual consolations are not the goal of centering prayer, and after a while something akin to dryness occurs. It is as if the well drys up and you are left wondering if you did something wrong. Without some encouragement at this point, I am afraid that many would discontinue the practice. So the question might arise, what is the point of centering prayer? Centering prayer is about relationship and that relationship brings about transformation. If you are interested in learning more about centering prayer, a great friend and mentor of mine is coming to NWA to present a Centering prayer conference. See info below:
Fr.
Matthew Flatley from
Contemplative
Outreach of
Central
Missouri Presents:
The Human Condition
&
Centering Prayer as Divine Therapy
With an introduction to Centering
Prayer
Friday and Saturday March 9-10, 2018
Sequoyah United Methodist Church
1910 N Old Wire Rd, Fayetteville, AR
Check-in begins Friday at 6:30 with conference
starting at 7:00
Free teaser session open to public Friday
night
Conference cost is $35 and includes breakfast
and lunch Saturday
Or Adam Ringle at 479-466-4871 for more
information
