Meditation is as natural to the spirit as breathing is to the body.
Deeply rooted in the Christian tradition, it is an ancient spiritual discipline, a simple way into peace within oneself and union with the Spirit of Christ. The way to set out on this pilgrimage is to recite a short phrase or “mantra”, as a means of turning our attention beyond ourselves, drawing us away from our own thoughts and concerns.
The real work of meditation is to attain harmony of body, mind and spirit. This is the aim given us by the psalmist: “Be still and know that I am God.”
St. Paul wrote (Rom. 8:26) that “we do not know how to pray, but the spirit prays within us.” Meditation, known also as contemplative prayer, is the prayer of silence, the place where direct contact with Christ can occur, where we can enter into the presence of God within.
St. John of the Cross says, “God is the centre of my soul.”
Julian of Norwich says “God is the still point of my centre.”
Meditation is the daily pilgrimage to one’s own centre. If we are faithful and patient, meditation will bring us into deeper and deeper realms of silence. What we need is the humility to tread the way over a period of years, so that the prayer of Christ may be the grounding experience of our lives.
In order to support their daily personal commitment to meditation, people frequently join a weekly meditation group. Our meditation group at St. Luke’s is affiliated to the World Community for Christian Meditation and meets 8 - 9pm on Wednesdays to meditate together and support each other on our pilgrimage.
Beginners are always welcome.