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Opening Minds, Opening Hearts

Mary Dwyer: The Transformational Experience of Centering Prayer

Oct 15, 2023
Mary Dwyer, a seasoned advocate of Centering Prayer with over 30 years of experience, shares her profound journey shaped by Father Thomas Keating's teachings. She highlights the transformative power of daily contemplative practices and how communal living fosters spiritual growth. Dwyer also discusses the significance of emotional awareness and the four essential steps of Centering Prayer. Additionally, the conversation touches on how digital platforms are reshaping modern spirituality, blending accessibility with the sacred.
44:10

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Quick takeaways

  • Centering prayer is a transformative practice that fosters a deeper relationship with God through silence, consent, and intentionality.
  • Community support in contemplative prayer enhances personal growth and combats the loneliness often experienced during spiritual exploration.

Deep dives

The Journey of Centering Prayer

Centering prayer serves as a transformative spiritual practice that emphasizes the importance of silence and inner stillness. Developed by Father Thomas Keating, this method encourages individuals to consent to God's presence and action within them, fostering a deeper relationship with the divine. Participants engage in a simple structure composed of guidelines that include selecting a sacred word and returning to it when distracted. The practice challenges individuals not only to find peace but to engage in a profound journey of personal transformation.

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