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In the Waiting: An Advent Prayer Experience
December 14 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
In the Waiting: An Advent Prayer Experience
🗓️ Saturday, December 14
🕘 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
📍 at Christ Church Lake Forest
Join us for a contemplative morning retreat as we pause to embrace the sacred waiting of Advent. In the midst of December’s hurry, come discover ancient prayer practices that invite us deeper into God’s presence and peace.
Your morning journey includes:
– Gentle worship and candlelit meditation
– Three guided prayer experiences exploring the prophet Isaiah’s hope-filled messages
– Interactive sessions on Lectio Divina, imaginative prayer, and the prayer of Examen
– Refreshments and times of quiet reflection
Begin your Advent season with intention, surrounded by warm community and peaceful reflection. Whether you’re new to contemplative prayer or seeking to deepen your practice, this morning offers space to encounter God’s goodness and care.
REGISTER HEREMore info about the interactive prayer sessions.
1. Lectio Divina (“Divine Reading”): A contemplative way of reading Scripture where you let God’s Word sink deeply into your heart. Like savoring a meal rather than rushing through it, this ancient practice invites you to read slowly, pause, reflect, and respond to what catches your attention. Instead of analyzing the text, you listen for God’s personal invitation to you through the words.
2. Imaginative Prayer: This practice invites you to step into Scripture scenes using your imagination, experiencing the stories with all your senses. You might notice the sounds, smells, and feelings of being present with shepherds in their fields, or walking alongside Jesus. This approach helps bring Biblical narratives to life and allows you to encounter God in fresh, personal ways.
3. Prayer of Examen: A gentle review of your day or season with God, the Examen helps you notice where God has been present and active in your life. Like having a thoughtful conversation with a close friend, you look back with gratitude, pay attention to your emotions, and listen to your deeper longings. This practice helps you recognize patterns in your spiritual journey and discern God’s guidance.
