One Sacred Word
"In centering prayer, the sacred word is not the object of attention but rather the expression of the intention of the will."
—Thomas Keating
Sometimes, we return from a vacation feeling like we should be rested, but not quite there yet.
After some time away, the staff here at St. Mary’s Sewanee returned to set up a circle of chairs for an upcoming Centering Prayer retreat. We brought out the tea lights, gathered the Books of Common Prayer, and set out a pitcher of water.
We also found ways to rest and renew ourselves while serving as hosts. One staff member stepped out to go to the gym midday. The kitchen staff wore headphones to listen to music rather than using the speaker. We knew we would be talking more softly and walking more gently during Centering Prayer, so we went out for lunch to laugh and get the wiggles out.
This is what it means to create the container for the sacred work of centering prayer. Whether the retreatants notice the details or not, they feel the care with which the space has been prepared. They step into a clean, refreshed environment that allows them to leave behind whatever burdens them.
A Sacred Word
During a Centering Prayer retreat, each participant chooses a sacred word to ground them in silence. This word brings their wandering attention into the present moment. It expresses the intent of their spirit, no matter how faltering the reality. The word grounds them when it's tempting to fall into swirling thoughts or float away into regrets or dreams. It's a simple but profoundly difficult practice.
My Centering Prayer practice has fits and starts. Most days, I spend 10 minutes in silent meditation, though not exactly as Thomas Keating prescribes. I extend the practice by choosing a sacred word for the year. For several years, I have used a retreat developed by Christine Valters Paintner of Abbey of the Arts that helps me listen for a word to serve as my mantra for the year.
This year, my word is "Wait." I'm reading a beautiful book on sorrow by Jan Richardson, and she talks about "receiving rather than reaching." That captures well the essence of "Wait." I need to slow down. I need to discern actions rather than reacting. I'm not going to be passive, but I want to be wiser in my actions.
When a board member has an idea, a staff member has a concern, or a retreatant offers feedback, I can wait before responding. I can pray first and respond later. I can consider whether responding via email, text, phone call, or personal visit is the wisest way to continue the conversation. I can examine my emotional temperature and gut response before making decisions. I can wait upon the Lord for a possibility or response I had not considered before. I can wait for the wisdom of the community rather than feeling like I need to do it myself.
Thomas Keating says the sacred word should be chosen during a brief period of prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to inspire us with one that is especially suitable for us. I wonder if you can take some time this month to listen for your word? A word especially for you. A word to ground you and hold you in the silence and the noise.
PRACTICE: Choosing Your Sacred Word
Find a quiet space. Light a candle if you wish. Take three deep breaths.
Ask the Holy Spirit: What word do I need to carry going forward?
Sit in silence for 5-10 minutes. Notice what arises without forcing or judging.
The word may come immediately or over several days. Trust the process.
Write your word somewhere you'll see it daily.
