An Introduction to Centering Prayer

Centering Prayer is a method of silent prayer based on an anonymous 14th Century text called The Cloud of Unknowing, and has roots even further back in the writings of the Desert Fathers of Egyptian Monasticism. It has recently been popularized by the Trappist monk Thomas Keating.

In The Cloud of Unknowing, the spiritual advisor describes a type of contemplative prayer in which one simply rests in the presence of God without an agenda. He believes that this "contemplative work of love" is the way to a changed spirit and character – and thereby the spiritual fruits of love, joy, and peace. By practicing Centering Prayer, one hopes to open themselves fully to the presence and action of God, experiencing authentic inner transformation in the process.

An Introduction to Centering Prayer is a short tract designed to introduce readers to the discipline and encourage further study.