'Centering Prayer' workshop on Nov. 4

A one-day, introductory workshop on centering prayer is being offered by Contemplative Outreach Chicago, an organization that serves people throughout greater Chicago who are interested in this method of prayer.

The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at Goodwin Hall at Benedictine University, 5700 College Road, Lisle.

Centering prayer is a method of meditation and silent prayer grounded in ancient Christian tradition. People who practice Centering Prayer say it helps deepen their spiritual awareness and brings them closer to God.

This year, attendees at the one-day workshop may choose to participate in an all-day, in-depth introductory session on the centering prayer practice, or instead choose half-day sessions on two of the four other topics on the agenda: sacred chant, the perennial wisdom, Taize spirituality, and a look at Thomas Merton's take on yoga.

"Last year's fall workshop brought together about 175 people who either practice centering prayer already or are interested in finding out about the meditative, contemplative side of Christianity," said Alan Krema, Chicago-area coordinator for Contemplative Outreach.

"Everyone is welcome at this event, and I believe it would benefit anyone who is looking for an opportunity to develop a deeper spiritual awareness."

Registration is $65 and $10 for students. For information, visit centeringprayerchicago.org or call (847) 698-5298.