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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2015 Jun 5.
Published in final edited form as: Psychotherapy (Chic). 2014 Nov 3;52(1):56–66. doi: 10.1037/a0036448

Table 2.

Contemplative Prayer Instructions

  1. Choose a scripture. Begin with your memory passage for the week.

  2. Sit comfortably, but not too comfortably, back straight, chest open so the breath is free and open.

  3. Read the passage slowly. Savor each phrase. What word phrase or idea speaks to you?

  4. Read the passage again. Where does this passage touch your life? What do you see, hear, touch, or remember?

  5. Read the passage a third time. Listen quietly.

  6. Note insights, reflections, and personal response to the reading in your journal.

  7. Follow the steps in order or go back and forth between them as you feel moved.

  8. Finish by waiting for a few moments in silence.