Centering prayer and inner awakening

Description: Practitioners of Centering Prayer are known for the great enthusiasm they bring to the practice of this ancient discipline. Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening is a complete guidebook for all who wish to know the practice of Centering Prayer. Cynthia Bourgeault goes further than offering an introduction, however. She examines how the practice is related to the classic tradition of Christian contemplation, looks at the distinct nuances of its method, and explores its revolutionary potential to transform Christian life. The book encourages dialogue between Centering Prayer enthusiasts and those classic institutions of Christian nurture—churches, seminaries, and schools of theology—that have yet to accept real ownership of the practice and its potential. -- from back cover

Table of Contents:Foreword / Thomas Keating
Introduction
THE METHOD OF CENTERING PRAYER
Contemplative prayer and centering prayer
Deeper silence, deeper self
The method of centering prayer
Handling thoughts during prayer time
Spiritual non-possessiveness
THE TRADITION OF CENTERING PRAYER
Centering prayer and Christian tradition
The loss and recovery of the Christian contemplative tradition
The theology of centering prayer
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF CENTERING PRAYER
The divine therapy
From healing to holiness
CENTERING PRAYER AND INNER AWAKENING
Attention of the heart
Working with an inner observer
The welcoming prayer
Centering prayer and Christian life.
EPILOGUE : the way of the heart

FY2005 /