Contemplative Prayer
Saturday Morning Extended Sessions
Second Saturday of the Month at St. Mary’s Chapel
9:00–11:30 a.m.
In-person only
These monthly extended sittings begin with a brief reflection, followed by two periods of silent sitting and walking meditation. A mid-morning break offers time to walk the grounds or rest in silence indoors. The chapel’s natural light and sacred atmosphere offer a beautiful container for quiet prayer.
Contemplative Prayer is offered at no cost. No registration necessary for Thursday evening sessions.
What To Expect
Contemplative prayer can be deeply grounding—but also unfamiliar if you're used to spoken prayer or worship. Here's what you'll find:
A peaceful, quiet space to rest in God’s presence as you understand God.
Times of stillness guided by seasoned practitioners.
Simple chants and short readings or reflections to help settle your spirit.
Respect for diverse experiences and spiritual expressions.
A community that values silence, presence, and shared seeking.
Whether your background is in Christian prayer, Buddhist meditation, interspiritual practice, or quiet curiosity, you are welcome here.
Be Still and Know…
Contemplative Prayer is a form of silent prayer that helps us become present to the sacred—within us and all around us. It prepares us to experience God’s presence—closer than breath, deeper than thought, beyond words. In its simplest form, it is the stilling of mind and heart to listen with the ear of the heart.
At the Peace & Spirituality Center, our contemplative practice draws from the mystical Christian tradition and Zen meditation, while also honoring the richness of other spiritual paths. This space is open to all, including those who speak of God in different ways—or not at all. We welcome seekers, skeptics, and believers alike, with a shared commitment to silence, presence, and compassion.
No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to enter into stillness.
Sign up for our weekly email to receive more information, the Zoom link, and reflections from Sr. Kathleen Pruitt, CSJP.
Thursday Evening Sessions
Weekly at the Peace & Spirituality Center
7:00–8:00 p.m.
In-person and via Zoom
We gather in silence, remove our shoes, and choose a chair or cushion. A brief reflection is offered by one of our leaders, followed by 25 minutes of silent meditation. We then walk in silence for 5 minutes, and return for another 25-minute sitting. The evening begins and ends with a simple chant.