Spiritual Practices Monday is held in the church's Sanctuary at 7:00pm every week, except public holidays. Once a month, Spiritual Practices Monday is expanded to include Soul Spa.
Spiritual Practices Monday begins with lighting a candle and check-in, followed by an inspirational quote to signal the start of Centering Prayer. This is followed by the practice of Lectio Divina with scripture (typically the one that's being read in worship that coming Sunday). The group then closes the evening with a contemplative walk on the labyrinth. Although participants are welcome to stay for every phase of the evening, it is not necessary to come for the complete 1.5-hour session.
No previous prayer or meditation experience is required; we'd love to have you join us wherever you are on your spiritual path! If you have questions or want to know more, please email victoria@lynnvalleychurch.com.
Centering Prayer: Modelled on the teachings of Trappist monk Father Thomas Keating, Centering Prayer is a method of silent meditation in which you invite God's presence within while actively letting go of all other thoughts. There is nothing to ‘achieve’ with Centering Prayer. Rather, the goal is to endure the gift of pure grace.
Lectio Divina: Latin for "Divine Reading,” this practice is a traditional monastic exploration of scripture through meditative reading. The four movements of Lectio Divina are Read, Reflect, Respond, and Rest, along with a selected scripture that is read through three times. The focus of Lectio Divina should not be a theological analysis of biblical passages, but rather an opportunity to view them through the lens of a ‘call to action’ or wisdom from real-life experience.
Walking the Labyrinth: There is no “right” or “wrong” way to walk a labyrinth. At its core, a labyrinth walk is a movement meditation used to quiet the mind and open the heart. It is a spiritual tool to aid healing and transformation; support releasing anxiety, anger, and grief; guide decision making, illuminate purpose, clarify priorities; serve as a sacred container to celebrate and give thanks. As with most spiritual practices, there is no intended or expected outcome, just a commitment to embark on a spiritual journey.