The first meditation session will be held on Tueday 4th July after the evening mass, so approximately 7.45-8.15pm. Sessions will then be held every two weeks.
What is Meditation?
Meditation is simple, being simple means being ourselves. It means passing beyond self consciousness, self analysis and self rejection. Meditation is a universal spiritual practice which guides us into this state of prayer, into the prayer of Christ. It brings us to silence, stillness and simplicity by a means that is itself silent, still and simple.
Meditation is a very ancient Christian way of prayer that was recovered for modern Christians by the Benedictine monk John Main OSB. He recovered this practice through his study of the teachings of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, particularly the teachings of John Cassian.
Process of meditation
In so far as physically possible sit with your back upright with your feet planted firmly on the floor. Lightly close your eyes.
You may find it helpful to slow your breath, perhaps by taking a couple of deep slow breaths before you begin to meditate. It may also be helpful to sit with the palms of your hands on your knees.
It is useful to recite a prayer word or phrase. One suggestion is to say the word Maranatha reciting it slowly but interiorly. It is said as 4 equal syllables: MA-RA-NA-THA. The word is Aramaic and means ‘Come Lord’ (or ‘The Lord Comes’) but do not focus on the meaning of the word, just repeat it.
You may find it helpful to match the mantra with your breathing although this is not essential.
Do not think or imagine anything – spiritual or otherwise. If thoughts or images come, these are distractions at the time of meditation, so keep returning to simply saying your word.
For more information visit https://meditatiocentrelondon.org/