Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening

Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening outlines a contemplative prayer practice rooted in Christian mystical tradition. The book provides instructions and context for centering prayer as taught by Father Thomas Keating and other contemporary contemplatives. Bourgeault explains the method's origins, mechanics, and relationship to other meditation practices while addressing common questions and obstacles practitioners face. She draws connections between centering prayer and teachings from desert fathers, medieval mystics, and modern consciousness studies. The text includes practical guidelines for establishing a centering prayer practice, along with sections on retreats, group practice, and integrating contemplative awareness into daily life. Scripture references and examples from practitioners help illuminate the transformative potential of this spiritual discipline. This work explores the intersection of Christian contemplation and human consciousness development, suggesting that centering prayer opens pathways to deeper spiritual perception and inner transformation. The book positions this practice as both an ancient wisdom tradition and a relevant tool for modern spiritual seekers.

Readers describe this as a clear, practical guide to centering prayer that balances theological depth with accessibility. Many note it serves both beginners and experienced practitioners. Liked: - Clear explanations of the practice's mechanics and common challenges - Integration of scientific research with contemplative traditions - Concrete examples and troubleshooting tips - Discussion of the relationship between centering prayer and other meditation forms Disliked: - Some found the writing style academic and dense - Conservative Christians objected to parallels drawn with Eastern practices - A few readers wanted more basic instruction before diving into theory - Some felt overwhelmed by neurological/psychological terminology Ratings: Goodreads: 4.33/5 (656 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (338 ratings) "Finally makes sense of what happens during contemplative practice" - Goodreads reviewer "Too intellectual - needed more practical guidance" - Amazon reviewer "Changed my understanding of prayer entirely" - Goodreads reviewer

The Heart of Centering Prayer by Thomas Keating This text establishes the foundations of contemplative prayer through step-by-step instructions and explanations of the practice's theological roots.

New Seeds of Contemplation by Thomas Merton The text explores Christian contemplative practice through examination of silence, solitude, and inner transformation.

The Cloud of Unknowing by Anonymous This 14th-century mystical text presents methods for connecting with divine presence through surrender of thoughts and mental constructs.

Interior Castle by Teresa of Ávila The text maps seven stages of spiritual development through metaphor and practical guidance for contemplative practice.

Open Mind, Open Heart by Thomas Keating The text outlines the method of Centering Prayer through examination of its psychological and spiritual dimensions.

🕊️ Cynthia Bourgeault is an Episcopal priest and one of the first women ordained to the priesthood in that denomination, bringing a unique perspective to contemplative Christianity. 🧘 The Centering Prayer method described in the book was developed in the 1970s by three Trappist monks at St. Joseph's Abbey in Massachusetts, drawing from ancient Christian contemplative practices. 📚 The book connects Centering Prayer with neuroscience, explaining how this meditation practice can actually rewire neural pathways and change the way our brains process information. 💫 While many associate meditation primarily with Eastern traditions, the practice of Centering Prayer traces its roots to the 14th-century anonymous text "The Cloud of Unknowing." 🤝 The author studied directly under Thomas Keating, one of the original architects of the Centering Prayer movement and a renowned figure in modern contemplative Christianity.