Christian Meditation Group Meets Thursdays on Beach

A new spiritual group, , meets 9 a.m. Thursday on the beach at Second Street. The group started last week and will continue to meet on Thursday mornings through October.

The group's organizer, Peaches Lukens, describes the meetings as follows:

Filling a Quiet Mind with God

The word "meditation" often conjures up images associated with Eastern religions, but meditation is mentioned often in the Bible and can become a powerful means of transformation for the seeking Christian.

We do not come to Scripture simply for knowledge and study, but to encounter God Himself within His Word. Many Christians know about God, but may not truly know Him in the personal and intimate way they long to.

"Lectio Divina" (Sacred Reading) is an ancient Christian practice that Benedictine monks used in the third century to expose illiterate peasants to God's Word and thus God Himself. The four steps of Lectio involve listening to a small portion of Scripture several times through. We contemplate and meditate on the text and allow the Spirit of God to bring insight in individual and unique ways as only He can. Over time this helps us to connect to the Living God; discerning and hearing Him speak into our lives.

For the past seven years a small group of Christian women have been meeting on the beach and practicing Lectio together, resulting in a wonderful experience with God and strengthening their faith.

A new group has formed that also includes men: Sonrise Circle. We meet on the beach because the solitude is so conducive for listening within to God. Our chairs face the ocean to symbolize there is nothing between us and God as we listen to Scripture and for the Holy Spirit. At the close of our time together we come into a circle with our chairs and if we chose, we briefly share what God shared with us during that time. 

Gatherings will meet on Second Street beach in Ocean City every Thursday from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. weather permitting and through October. Please bring a beach chair, pen, and bible if you have one, but not necessary. Dress accordingly. Because the nature of our meeting is quiet, we ask that children not attend. Bathrooms are nearby and parking is free. For more information or a weather call, contact Peaches Lukens at 609-399-4411.