The phrase lectio divina means “divine reading” in Latin and is a fitting name for this prayer practice of listening to Scripture with the ear of the heart. Lectio divina (often called “lectio” for short) is a dialogue with God through Scripture that includes the whole self: thoughts, images, memories, desires, etc. The movements within lectio divina involve reading, listening to, responding to and resting in the Word of God. It can be practiced alone or with a community.
How to practice lectio divina, pray with Scripture
Topics: prayer, spirituality, lectio divina, downloadable resources, prayer enrichment series
Cultivating docility, a lesson from Our Lady of Good Counsel
Yesterday’s post discussed the human need for counsel on the path to heaven, an important point for today’s feast of Our Lady of Good Counsel. It is the virtue of docility, or “teachableness,” that opens our hearts and minds to receive counsel from prudent friends, mentors and teachers who are also seeking holiness.
Topics: discipleship, prayer, Mary, saints, virtue, discernment
Out-of-uniform “dress down” days are a common way for Catholic schools to incentivize charitable giving among their students. This month’s dress down day at my children’s grade school benefitted the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, so the school was collecting canned goods instead of money.
Topics: almsgiving, Lent, prayer, family life, inspiration
I’m no stranger to weak and distorted vision.
Squinting, eye exams, countless pairs of not-so-stylish glasses, prescription sports goggles (albeit short-lived), contact lenses and changing prescriptions: these have been part of my daily life since I was six years old.
Topics: prayer, spirituality, perspective