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how do I pray this way? |
Begin by reading a Gospel scene or story (see list below) several times until all its details are remembered or pictured in your mind's eye. Imagine the events to be going on now, in our own time, so that you may enter the story and take part as it happens. Become part of the story either by being you or becoming one of the persons in the story. Incorporate all your senses and allow yourself to listen, smell, feel and watch what happens.
Allow yourself to interact with the other persons in the event—enter into conversation with them, listen to what they have to say to you or to each other. Allow the event to unfold through your imagination. Be as passive as possible to allow this to happen, but, at the same time, remain more or less within the framework of the Gospel story. Respond spontaneously as in a dialogue with God, with Jesus or with one of the persons within the story. Write it out if it is helpful to you. Afterwards, take some time to reflect on your prayer time. What did you notice? What stood out to you? What did this way of praying teach you about yourself? about God? Journal your thoughts. |
Gospel stories |
Gospel stories to choose from:
Luke 7:36-50 (Jesus anointed with tears and perfume) Luke 8:40-48 (woman healed from bleeding) Luke 10:38-42 (Mary & Martha) Luke 24:13-35 (Emmaus road) John 4:1-26 (woman encounters Jesus at well) John 5:1-15 (invalid at pool of Bethesda) Acts 5:12-16 (Peter’s shadow) Or select any other gospel story! |