Lectio Divina

The prayer lectio divina (prayerful reading) is part of my daily routine. Every morning I spend quiet time with God. I journal and read scripture during this hour.

My first journal entry is to thank God for another day. I then simply write whatever comes to mind to clear my head—even in the morning, I have thoughts that distract me. After I write for a few minutes, I read the gospel for the day. After reading it once, I pause and simply sit with the words; I then read it a second time, choosing a word that stands out for me. I like to spend up to 20 minutes with that word, listening to what God is saying to me for the day.

Usually, I experience peace during my time of prayer. I sense I am being prepared for whatever lies ahead for me, a day filled with people and who knows what else may happen. From years of this prayer routine, I know that when I leave my private prayer, I take with me an inner strength to sustain me throughout the day.

At Saint Benedict’s Monastery, we have many opportunities to experience lectio during Liturgy of the Hours. As we recite and listen to psalms and readings, pausing for a time to reflect upon what we just heard, God speaks through the shared silence. Community prayer times are a real boost for me; to stop and be attentive to God throughout my day.

If you would like more information about our common journey, please contact Sister Lisa Rose at lrose@csbsju.edu.

Lisa Rose, OSB

Photo: Sister Christine Manderfeld praying in the Oratory, taken by Sister Nancy Bauer