What is contemplative prayer?

Contemplative prayer is a simple, loving attention to God. The person rests before Him in faith, allowing Christ to draw the heart into deeper communion with Himself.

What the Church means. The Catechism calls contemplative prayer a covenant relationship established by God within our hearts, and a communion in which the Holy Trinity conforms us to God's likeness (CCC 2713). It is sometimes called silent prayer, but silence alone does not define it. Its heart is loving attention to the Lord. Like Mary of Bethany sitting at Jesus' feet, the soul gives itself to the "one thing" necessary (Lk 10:39-42).

A gift received in faith. Contemplation cannot be manufactured by breathing exercises, imagination, or a perfectly empty mind. God takes the initiative. We dispose ourselves to receive His gift by recollection, humility, repentance, and faithful prayer. The Catechism describes contemplation as a gift and grace that can be accepted only in humility and poverty (CCC 2713). The experience may feel peaceful, dry, bright, or obscure. Strong feelings are neither required nor reliable proof of holiness.

How to practice it. Choose a quiet time and place. Place yourself consciously before God, perhaps in front of the tabernacle or a crucifix. Invoke the Holy Spirit. A short phrase such as "Jesus, I trust in You" or a verse of Scripture can help gather your attention. Then remain with the Lord. When distractions come, return gently to Him without argument or self-criticism. If you need to speak, speak. If words fall away and you are peacefully attentive to God, remain there.

Contemplative prayer does not reject Scripture, doctrine, or the sacraments. It grows from them and leads back to them. It is a gaze of faith fixed on Jesus, an attentive hearing of God's word, and a silent love that joins Christ's prayer (CCC 2715-2719). Authentic contemplation produces greater charity, obedience, humility, and fidelity to the Church.

What it is not. Christian contemplation does not seek absorption into an impersonal divine force or the loss of personal identity. God is the living Trinity, and prayer is communion between persons through Christ. Nor should unusual sensations, visions, or private revelations be pursued. If such experiences occur, they should be treated cautiously and discussed with a sound priest or spiritual director.

Begin simply. Spend five minutes in silence after reading a few verses from the Gospel. Look toward Christ with faith, and allow Him to look upon you with love.