Lectio Divina is the Latin word for divine reading, spiritual reading, or “holy reading,” and represents a
method of prayer and scriptural reading intended to promote communion with God and to provide
special spiritual insights. It is a way of praying with Scripture that calls one to study, ponder, listen, and
pray from God’s Word. Method:
Lectio Divina is ideally practiced daily for up to one continuous hour. A selection from Holy Scriptures is
chosen ahead of time, often as a daily progression through a particular book of the Bible.
Using the same time each day helps to develop a daily habit of effective prayer. Find a place that is free
from distractions. Create a prayer space in your home if possible. Prior to reading, it is important to
engage in a transitional activity that takes you from your normal state of mind to a more contemplative
and prayerful state. A few moments of deep, regular breathing and a short prayer inviting the Holy Spirit
to guide your prayer time can help with this transition. Phases:
There are four phases of Lectio Divina. They are not necessarily listed in an ordered fashion. You may
move freely between the phases as the Holy Spirit guides you. Lectio
Meditatio
Oratio
Contemplatio
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