Heather Ruce, a Wisdom spiritual director and retreat facilitator, shares her insights on the transformative practice of Centering Prayer. She emphasizes the power of collective wisdom and community in spiritual growth. The discussion explores the intertwining of spiritual practices with personal and community experiences, highlighting how trauma can be navigated through awareness and the connection to one's core self. Additionally, Heather highlights the importance of integrating somatic experiences for a deeper understanding of spirituality.

Gigi Ross, a spiritual director and manager at the Center for Action and Contemplation, shares her profound journey with Centering Prayer. She emphasizes the transformative effects of spiritual direction and community, illustrating how deep listening and presence can deepen one's faith. The conversation highlights the interplay between personal struggles and the divine, alongside the importance of navigating cultural barriers in spiritual growth. Gigi also underscores the communal nature of spirituality, advocating for interdependence over the individualistic approach in modern faith practices.

Phileena Nikole, a Spiritual Director and Centering Prayer Practitioner, shares her journey from social justice work to contemplative practices. She recounts transformative moments, including a pivotal invitation to a monastery. The conversation highlights the vital connection between spirituality and personal transformation, emphasizing the significance of stillness and self-awareness. Phileena also discusses the balance between active and contemplative spirituality, illustrating how these practices enrich her work and deepen understanding of self and community.

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.

Father Justin Lanier, a dedicated priest in the Episcopal Church with extensive experience in various Christian traditions, shares insights on contemplative practices. He discusses his transformative journey from Trappist monasticism to Zen Buddhist practices. The conversation highlights the importance of intentionality in spiritual living, balancing action with contemplation. Fr. Justin also emphasizes community's role in deepening spiritual journeys and advocates for accessible contemplative practices that foster collective growth and engagement.

Dive into the transformative practice of Centering Prayer, exploring its rich history and profound impact on both personal and communal spirituality. Discover the interconnections between monastic traditions and Eastern practices as this contemplative journey unfolds. Reflect on the legacy of Thomas Keating and the influence of Vatican II on personal faith. Engage with modern efforts to make contemplative outreach more inclusive and accessible for all generations, fostering empathy and deeper connections with the divine.

Welcome back to season two of Opening Minds, Opening Hearts. Co-host Mark Dannenfelser and Colleen Thomas framed their conversation around one of Thomas Keating's guiding principles:“Contemplative Outreach is an evolving community with an expanding vision and deepening practice of Centering Prayer that serves the changing needs of Christian contemplatives.” Throughout the season, Mark and Colleen will unpack this principle with guests who are involved in the evolving contemplative community. To learn more about Father Thomas Keating’s guidelines for service and principles visit www.contemplativeoutreach.org/vision. To connect further with us:Visit our website: www.contemplativeoutreach.orgFind us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contemplativeoutreachltd/Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/contemplativeoutreachCheck out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/coutreachTo learn more about Father Thomas Keating’s guidelines for service and principles visit www.contemplativeoutreach.org/vision.Season 2 of Opening Minds, Opening Hearts was made possible by a grant from the Trust for the Meditation Process, a charitable foundation encouraging meditation, mindfulness, and contemplative prayer.This season of Opening Minds, Opening Hearts is produced by Crys & Tiana LLC www.crysandtiana.comStream and Download the Opening Minds, Opening Hearts Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Amazon and Spotify!

Mark Kutolowski, an oblate of Saint Benedict and Centering Prayer instructor, shares his journey in revitalizing Christian contemplation. He discusses transformative experiences with Father Thomas and how Centering Prayer fosters unity. The conversation highlights metanoia, or spiritual conversion, and its impact on daily life. Mark emphasizes the importance of embodiment in healing and the integration of prayer into family life. Listeners will dive deeper into the connection between contemplative practices and the beauty of nature.

Carmen Acevedo Butcher, an internationally acclaimed speaker and translator of spiritual texts, dives deep into the transformative power of Centering Prayer. She shares her personal journey of healing through meditation and nature, emphasizing self-compassion and community. The conversation explores how trauma can foster connection and highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for contemplation. Carmen also discusses the significance of selecting a sacred word in Centering Prayer, reinforcing the interconnectedness of individual experiences and wider societal challenges.

Pastor Tia Norman, a teacher and guide in Christian mysticism and the pastor of a contemplative community in Houston, shares her insights on Centering Prayer. She emphasizes the power of gentle returns during the practice, highlighting the importance of embracing thoughts without judgment. Tia discusses the transformative nature of prayer as divine therapy, exploring challenges women of color face in contemplative spaces. Her reflections on community and receptivity to God's presence offer inspiration for anyone seeking deeper spiritual connection.