Prayer Methods

Download Prayer Methods

  1. Ignatian Meditation
    • In Meditation one reads the Scripture passage like reading a love letter.
    • One reads the text slowly, in a whisper or aloud, allowing the words to wash over oneself and savouring the words.
    • Remain with the words that attract your special attention. Absorb those words the way a sponge absorbs water.
    • Keep repeating, a phrase or a sentence. Always aware of the feelings that these words or phrase awaken. 
  2. Ignatian Contemplation
    • We insert ourselves into the mystery of the life of Christ as revealed in the text: ‘to see the persons, to observe, consider, what they are saying, to behold and consider what they are doing.’
    • Remember that the mystery is taking place here and now. So, be part of the mystery.

    • Contemplate what they are saying. Get affected by their words.

    • Consider what they are doing. As you contemplate, constantly be aware what happens within you and draw fruit from it.
    • Share with the Lord all that you go through at this moment. Listen to him. What is he telling you? What is your response? It is a prayer of the heart.
  3. Nam Japa (Recital of Name)
    • Sit straight
    • Eyes closed
    • Breathe in and say the name of ‘Jesus’or any other favourite name/word.
    • Breathe out and say ‘My Shepherd’or any other favourite name/word.
    • Be aware of the flow of breath.
    • As and when your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breathing.
  4. Mantra Meditation (Sacred word or phrase)
    • Choose a Mantra
    • Choose a word/sentence that represents something you want to develop in yourself
    • Sound should be soothing. Repeat the word or sentence mentally.
    • Mantra Repetition:
      • The relaxation response can be evoked by sitting quietly with eyes closed for 30 minutes twice a day, and mentally repeating a simple word or sound such as “Jesus” or any other verse from the scripture that inspires you

Fr Arul Sivan, SJ
Sacred Heart College,
Shembaganur, Kodaikanal
Tamil Nadu