An Evening of Christian Meditation

Nearly all religions have some contemplative practice to help its practitioners prepare for worship or learn the religion's teachings. Christianity is no exception. While most Christians are familiar with silent prayer, most aren't familiar with the contemplative, or meditative traditions in the church.

Despite the absence of contemplative practice within most mainline denominations, Christians have practiced meditation for centuries. They practiced as a way to cultivate a closer relationship with Christ, to focus their attention on the teachings of the Bible, and to unite mind, body, and spirit in devotion to God. It's a beautiful way to quiet the mind to prepare for worship, prayer, or scripture reading, or to end devotions or the day. Meditation teaches us how to be present in the presence of God.

Meditation is traditionally a part of yoga practice. After all, one of the goals of the physical practice of yoga, called "asana," is to prepare the body to be able to sit for long periods of time in meditation. Yogic traditions employ various forms of meditation. Christian yoga should be no different.

In recent years, there has been a revival of the contemplative practice in Christianity, despite many years in which the practice of meditation, much like yoga, was equated with New Age beliefs and looked upon with some reservation by many Christians. But just as many Christians have embraced the practice of yoga, many are also embracing the practice of Christian meditation. It's important to note that you do not have to be an active practitioner of yoga to meditate--but it doesn't hurt!

In addition to the spiritual benefits gained from a Christian meditation practice, like yoga, there are mental and physical benefits as well. Studies have shown that meditation helps to reduce stress and pain, increase focus and concentration, and helps to balance the nervous system which improves physical and mental well-being.

If you've ever wondered about meditation and how you can integrate it into a Christian life, Soul Stretch's Evening of Christian Meditation is for you. Learn the basics of Christian meditation and how it can help calm the mind, body, and spirit. The workshop will begin with a brief introduction of the practice of mediation in the context of Christianity, followed by a gently guided meditation practice. Rachel Kain will walk you through the basics--enough to get you started in your own daily practice of meditation--including a resource page of books, websites, and recordings to help educate and support you. This class will be offered quarterly, so look for our next offering in December!

The evening is free, but free-will donations are gratefully accepted. The evening will begin at 7 pm sharp in the chapel at Nardin Park United Methodist Church in Farmington Hills on 11 Mile Rd, just west of Middlebelt. Please join us for this evening of peace, love, and gratitude.

We hope to see you there!