Lectio Devina

1. CHOOSE A PASSAGE OF SCRIPTURE

During Holy Week, you can use https://www.lectionarypage.net as a resource for finding the readings for each day of Holy Week. 

2. BE FULLY PRESENT

Establish a comfortable position for prayer, relax your body, and take three deep breaths.

3. FIRST SCRIPTURE READING Lectio

Read the scripture passage while listening for a word or phrase that stands out. Be silent for a few moments. Write that word or phrase in your journal. Share with your group the word or phrase (without explanation).

4. SECOND SCRIPTURE READING Meditatio

Read the scripture passage again and reflect on the content. Analyze the structure of the text and the historical and literary context of the passage. You might find it’s useful to augment the reading with a devotional reflection resource like Forward Movement’s Forward Day by Day or a commentary. Take a few minutes for silent reflection. Now record your thoughts, impressions, and insights.

5. THIRD SCRIPTURE READING Oratio

Read the scripture passage again, and this time speak and pray directly to God, asking for insight from the text. Be silent. Write a prayer to God that has been forming in your heart in response to this text.

6. Fourth Scripture Reading Contemplatio

Read the scripture passage a final time. This time, abandon speech and reflection and instead rest in the silent presence of God for between two and twenty minutes. If you start to get distracted, simply return to your breathing or the word or phrase from the first reading. After the silent period, record your reflections.