BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis - ECPv6.15.11//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20280312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20281105T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261008T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261008T200000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261020T024725Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T030549Z UID:77842-1791482400-1791489600@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:A Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering October 2026 DESCRIPTION:Back to Basics \n\n\n\nA Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal GatheringFacilitated by Charlie Lawrence \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJesus said to them\, ”Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while”. Mark 6:31 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBack to Basics is a gathering for anyone who would like a little “shot in the arm” for their Centering Prayer practice and for anyone who simply loves the prayer.Each gathering begins with a 20-minute period of Centering Prayer followed by questions and responses\, discussion\, sharing\, and occasional video presentations that support and deepen our understanding of the contemplative journey.Whether you are new to the practice\, returning after some time away\, or have been practicing for years\, you are welcome.Come renew your commitment to the practice\, deepen your understanding of Centering Prayer\, and enjoy the support and encouragement of a contemplative community.  \n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a way of consenting to God’s presence and action within.” \n\n\n\n— Basil Pennington\, ocso \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and walk ins are welcome. \n\n\n\nTime:\n\n\n\n\n6:15 – 6:30 p.m. Gathering\n\n\n\n6:30 p.m. Program Begins\n\n\n\n8:00 p.m. Conclusion\n\n\n\n\nPlease bring a notebook. It is recommended to bring your book Open Mind\, Open Heart\, by Father Thomas Keating if you have one. This is a beginner book with questions and answers specifically about the centering prayer practice and the spiritual journey. It is a great companion for the journey. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a discipline to foster interior transformation\, initiated by God and leading\, if we consent\, to divine union. One’s way of seeing reality changes\, which empowers one to perceive and respond to everyday life with sensitivity to the divine presence in\, through and beyond everything.” \n\n\n\n—Thomas Keating\, Open Mind\, Open Heart \n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information\, contact Charlie Lawrence at Charlesn.lawrence2@gmail.com \n\n\n\nRegistration for Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering:\n\n\n\nThis event is free\, however all donations are appreciated. Contemplative Outreach is an unincorporated non profit organization \n\n\n\n\n \n\n InstagramThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer background(Required)Which gatherings will you be attending?(Required)\n \n October 8th\, 2026\n \n \n November 12th\, 2026\n \n \n December 10th\, 2026\n VolunteerVolunteers help make events like this possible\, and we deeply appreciate any support to help lighten the load! Your presence is more than enough\, but if you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup\, and/or stay 30 minutes after for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Clean Up\n Do you want to be added to our mailing list?(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n \n \n \n I already receive your information\n Add a DonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. YesNoDonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. \n \n Total Contribution to COSTL\n \n Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Susie Brent \n489 Staines Court \nSt. Louis\, MO 63141IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ \n \n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/a-centering-prayer-follow-up-renewal-gathering-october-2026/ CATEGORIES:Back to Basics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/pexels-raybilcliff-1494639.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261010T033000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261010T100000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20260930T195806Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T054446Z UID:77824-1791603000-1791626400@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:MJS - The Hidden Soul DESCRIPTION:Mystic Journey Series \n\n\n\nMeister Eckhart – The Hidden Soul\n\n\n\nPresented by Bob Aten\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGathering at 8:30 AM\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Mystic Journey Series invites you to a time of exploration.\n\n\n\nMatthew 10:16: “Behold\, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves.” \n\n\n\nIs the mystical Jesus really saying\, “I am sending the sheep (the mystical soul) into the midst of wolves (the darkened human ego)”?I’m sending you into the marketplace. The marketplace is not out there… it is the dark\, hostile world of the addicted ego. It is a demanding place\, filled with noise\, glitter\, promises\, and life’s endless bling. It will call to you from every direction\, telling you what you need\, what you want\, and who you should become. Do not be fooled by these demanding voices or their promises.The marketplace will promise satisfaction but leave you wanting more. It will offer you recognition\, but never enough. It will tell you that you are incomplete and that something outside of yourself will finally make you whole.Listen and observe\, but don’t obey.Enter the marketplace\, but do not become its possession. \n\n\n\n“Learn to stand within the noise\,” but don’t let it enter your soul. For beneath the noise\, the voices\, the glitter\, the striving\, there is an ineffable silence that cannot be bought or sold. \n\n\n\nThere\, beyond the marketplace of the ego\, lies the ineffable soul. The ineffable soul that you were seeking all along…the I Am.Meister Eckhart answers the question of what remains when the ego goes quiet.Come\, discover the unitive consciousness of the Mystical I Am! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFlow for the Day:\n\n\n\n\n8:30 AM — Gathering & light continental breakfast9:00 AM — The Birthing of Mystical Consciousness10:30 AM — Quiet Prayer11:00 AM — Presentation Part 112:15 PM — Mediterranean catered lunch1:00 PM — Quiet Prayer1:30 PM — Presentation Part 23:00 PM — Conclusion\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n8:30 AM — Light continental breakfast upon arrival12:15 PM — Catered lunch will be provided\, or you are welcome to bring your own lunch\n\n\n\nTo be included in our catered lunch\, please register by October 8th at 4:00 PM. Registrations are welcome after 4:00 PM as space permits; however\, please plan to bring your own lunch. \n\n\n\n\nFinancial Assistance Available \nWe never want the cost of a program to prevent anyone from participating. If you would like financial assistance or a scholarship\, please contact Susie Brent. We would be happy to help make your participation possible. \n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBob Aten has been an apophatic hermit for the past 30 years.  Former USAF Chaplain\, Vietnam veteran\, Death Row Chaplain @ Pototsi State Maximum Security Center\, military teacher\, high school teacher\, Junior college math teacher.  Founder of Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis in 1989. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA little history on the formation of the Mystic Journey Series\n\n\n\n\n\nTHE MYSTIC JOURNEY\n\n\n\nThere are many definitions of the word “mystic” as noted in religious traditions throughout the world.  Most traditions agree that the Mystic is a person who seeks through contemplation\, self-surrender and personal transformation the experience of unity with the sacred Absolute Divine reality.Karl Rahner\, in his famous quote regarding the spiritual journey of the future\, said “you will be a mystic or nothing at all …”Everyone is invited to join us to consider the life and stories of persons who have revealed and written of their experience encountering the extraordinary presence and love of Divine reality.Some may call them “saints” or apply other characterizations\, but they were no different than you or I who are seeking the same loving God.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration:\n\n\n\n \n\n URLThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Phone(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer background(Required)How did you hear about this event?(Required)Newsletter preference\n \n \n Please add me\n \n \n \n No\, thank you\n \n \n \n I already receive it\n Please select your newsletter preference. If you already receive our newsletter\, leave the selection as shown. Service OpportunityVolunteers help make our events possible\, and we’re grateful for your support! If you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup and/or stay 30 minutes afterward for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Clean Up\n Breakfast(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Will you be joining us for the light continental breakfast?Lunch(Required)\n \n \n I’ll join you for the catered lunch\n \n \n \n I’ll bring my own lunch\n \n \n \n I will not be staying for lunch\n What are your lunch plans?Food to Share\n \n Yes\n \n \n Maybe\n Bringing something to share is entirely optional. If you would enjoy contributing a side dish to our table\, we would be grateful!Registration Fee\n \n \n Price:\n \n \n \n Number of Attendees(Required)Please enter a number from 1 to 3.Additional AttendeesIf you are registering for more than one person\, please list the name(s) of the additional attendee(s) here.Add a DonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses.YesNoDonation AmountPlease enter the amount you would like to donate.\n \n Total Payment to COSTL\n \n Payment Method(Required)\n \n \n Pay online by credit card\n \n \n \n Mail a check\n \n \n \n Pay at the door\n Please select your preferred payment method. Your registration reserves your place\, and we plan food\, materials\, and seating based on our registration count. If your plans change\, please let us know as soon as possible.Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Paying by check:\nPlease make your check payable to COSTL and mail it to:\nCOSTL\nc/o Mary Anne Chorney\n1437 Cave Springs Estate Dr\nSt. Peters\, MO 63376Coupon IMPORTANT: All information provided with your registration is strictly confidential and will not be sold or shared with another organization. We value your privacy and will use your information only for purposes related to your registration and our programs.FINAL STEP: Complete the “Verify you are human” step below. Once you see “Success!”\, click SUBMIT REGISTRATION to complete your registration.\n\nAfter submitting\, scroll to the bottom of the event page to confirm that your registration was successfully received. You will also receive an immediate notification email from Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis with the event details.\n\nIf you do not see the confirmation on the event page AND receive the notification email\, please check your spam or junk folder. If the email is not there\, please contact us at centeringprayercostl@gmail.com.\n\nThank you!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/mjs-the-hidden-soul/ CATEGORIES:Mystic Journey Series ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sound-Frequency-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T084500 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T140000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261002T212514Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T042226Z UID:77086-1792226700-1792245600@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:Centering Prayer Intro Workshop - Fall 2026 DESCRIPTION:Centering Prayer Intro Workshops \n\n\n\nFall Introduction to Centering Prayer WorkshopPresented by Walter Martinez and Mary Laffey Adams \n\n\n\n\nGathering starts on Saturday at 8:30am\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you looking for a way to explore or deepen your relationship with God?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you looking for a way to explore or deepen your relationship with God?Join us for an Introductory Workshop for Centering Prayer\, a simple method of silent prayer rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition.Centering Prayer invites us to rest in silence with God\, opening our hearts and our whole being to God’s presence and action within.During the workshop\, participants will learn the method of Centering Prayer\, experience the prayer in a guided setting\, and have an opportunity to ask questions and share with the presenters. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat Is Centering Prayer? \n\n\n\nCentering Prayer is based on a Christian contemplative practice first described in The Cloud of Unknowing\, written in the latter half of the 14th century.  \n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is not so much an exercise of attention as intention. It may take a while to grasp this distinction. You do not attend to any particular thought or content. Rather\, you intend to go to your inmost being\, where you believe God dwells. You are opening to Him by pure faith\, not by means of concepts or feelings.” \n\n\n\n— Thomas Keating\, Open Mind Open Heart\, p. 39 \n\n\n\n\nThis prayer does not replace your other prayer practices. You will be given encouragement to learn how to become more comfortable with building a deeper relationship with the God of your understanding in the stillness of your “inner room.” \n\n\n\n\n“If you want to pray\, enter your inner room\, close the door\, and pray to your Father in secret\, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.“ \n\n\n\n —Matthew 6:6 \n\n\n\n\nWhat is the inner room? This “inner room” is not a physical place. It is an interior place in our hearts\, the deepest part of who we are. It is a place of quiet\, where we can meet our Lord personally.  \n\n\n\nIntroduction to Centering Prayer is a sampling of the practice and its benefits. The workshop is a prerequisite to the Follow Up Course\, Basic Centering Prayer\, that delves more into the practice and effects of Centering Prayer. Basic Centering Prayer is the next step to a committed practice with community support and trained Presenters and Facilitators. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn our introductory workshop to Centering Prayer\, you will discover a centuries-old prayer method.  Centering Prayer consists of simply sitting in silence with God – beyond thoughts\, words\, and emotions – and opening our mind\, heart and whole being to the Ultimate Mystery. In this workshop\, you will learn the basics of Centering Prayer\, experience it in a guided setting\, and be able to ask questions and share experiences with the presenters and your fellow participants. Please join us!Walter Martinez and Mary Laffey Adams will be serving as our COL Commissioned Co Presenters of this Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop. Both have been practicing centering prayer for many years. Charlie Lawrence\, Commissioned Presenter and Team leader will be supporting the Team. Please bring a lunch. If you would like to share a dish\, that would be most welcome. We will provide coffee\, tea\, and water\, and you are also encouraged to bring a beverage of your choice (with a lid).For more information contact: \n\n\n\nGather at 8:30am with Continental Breakfast\, Intro Workshop – 9:00am to 2:00pmIntroductory workshops are held throughout the year at a variety of sites. The presenters are specially trained and commissioned in teaching this short course which covers the essentials of the method and conceptual background of Centering Prayer. The first introductory workshop is generally four to six-hours and is typically held on a Saturday. The program may continue with “follow-up” sessions held on one full-day or for four to six weekly 90-minute gatherings to pray\, view and discuss a video presentation and to support an emerging daily practice of Centering Prayer. To schedule an introductory workshop for your group\, church or organization\, please contact us via email.This event is free\, but there is a suggested donation of $25.00. If you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. This is purely a suggestion and not meant to be a barrier to attendance. All are welcome. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdKirkwood\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n EmailThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Address \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n This field is hidden when viewing the formAttendance TypeI will attend the sessions (pick one please)\n \n \n In-person\n \n \n \n Zoom\n Background(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer backgroundConnectionHow did you hear about this event?Newsletter preferencePlease select your newsletter preference. If you already receive our newsletter\, leave the selection as shown.\n \n \n Please add me\n \n \n \n No\, thank you\n \n \n \n I already receive it\n Service OpportunityVolunteers help make our events possible\, and we’re grateful for your support! If you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup and/or stay 30 minutes afterward for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Bring a Light Dish\n \n \n Clean Up\n Number of AttendeesPlease enter a number from 1 to 3.Additional AttendeesIf you are bringing guests\, please list their name(s) below.Donation(Required)This workshop is free\, with a suggested donation of $25. However\, a donation is entirely optional\, and all are welcome regardless of their ability to contribute.\n\nIf you wish\, your donation of any amount helps support our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund\, and other expenses. We are grateful for your generosity!\n \n \n Yes\, I would like to donate via credit card.\n \n \n \n Yes\, I would like to donate via mailed check.\n \n \n \n I will donate at the event.\n \n \n \n No donation at this time.\n Donation for Intro Workshop 10/17/26\n \n Donation Total\n \n Credit CardCard Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Susie Brent \n489 Staines Court \nSt. Louis\, MO 63141FINAL STEP: Complete the “Verify you are human” step below. Once you see “Success!”\, click SUBMIT REGISTRATION to complete your registration.\n\nAfter submitting\, scroll to the bottom of the event page to confirm that your registration was successfully received. You will also receive an immediate notification email from Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis with the event details.\n\nIf you do not see the confirmation on the event page AND receive the notification email\, please check your spam or junk folder. If the email is not there\, please contact us at centeringprayercostl@gmail.com.\n\nThank you!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ \n \n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/centering-prayer-intro-workshop-fall-2026/ CATEGORIES:Centering Prayer Intro Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMG_5485.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T170000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261021T211641Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261022T045109Z UID:77993-1793174400-1793206800@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:ES - The Welcoming Prayer October 28th 2026 DESCRIPTION:EnLIGHTenment Series \n\n\n\nThe Welcoming Prayer\n\n\n\nPresented by Jim McElroy\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event will be available in person\, via Zoom\, and by recording. Recording will be available after editing. \n\n\n\n\n\nBringing Consent into Everyday Life\n\n\n\nWelcoming Prayer is a contemplative practice of consenting to God’s presence and action in the midst of everyday life. It complements Centering Prayer by helping us bring the same attitude of consent that we practice in silence into the circumstances\, emotions\, relationships\, and challenges of daily living. \n\n\n\nSometimes described as “Centering Prayer on the go\,” Welcoming Prayer invites us to become aware of what is happening within us—particularly our physical and emotional reactions—and to meet those experiences with openness rather than immediately resisting\, suppressing\, or reacting to them. \n\n\n\nThe practice helps us recognize our habitual desires for security and survival\, affection and esteem\, and power and control. By gently letting go of our attachment to these desires\, we become increasingly available to God’s presence and to a freer\, more loving response to life. \n\n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJim McElroy has been practicing Centering Prayer since 1996 and has been a commissioned presenter since 2002. Jim has been on the leadership team of 12-Step Outreach since its formation in 2005 and is especially interested in teaching contemplative practices to the recovery community. He currently serves on the Trustee Team for Contemplative Outreach\, Ltd and is on the Welcoming Prayer Faculty. He is a former coordinator of Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOrigins of the Welcoming Prayer\n\n\n\n\n\n The Welcoming Prayer was created by Mary Mrozowski\, a founding member of Contemplative Outreach and an important figure in its early contemplative community.\n\n\n\nThe practice offers a way to bring the consent of Centering Prayer into everyday life. By becoming present to our physical and emotional reactions and letting go of the emotional programs of the false-self system\, we become increasingly available to God’s presence and action within us. \n\n\n\nIn this way\, the Welcoming Prayer supports the continuing process of transformation begun in Centering Prayer. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration Options\n\n\n\n\nIn Person — $25: Includes dinner\, fellowship\, and the evening program.\n\n\n\nLive via Zoom — $10: Participate remotely in the evening program.\n\n\n\nRecording Only — $10: Receive access to the program recording after it has been edited and prepared for viewing.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note: Zoom Access: The Zoom Meeting ID and password will be emailed to registered Zoom participants on Wednesday\, October 28\, after 10:00 AM. Please check your inbox\, including your spam or junk folder. The recording will not be available immediately following the event. Editing and preparation may take some time. We appreciate your patience and will provide access once it is ready. \n\n\n\nDinner Registration Deadline — Monday\, October 26\, at 4:00 PM \n\n\n\nTo be included in our catered dinner\, please register by Monday\, October 26\, at 4:00 PM. \n\n\n\nRegistrations are welcome after this deadline as space permits. If registering after 4:00 PM on October 26\, you are welcome to bring your own dinner and join us for fellowship at 5:00 PM\, or simply arrive for the evening program beginning at 6:00 PM. \n\n\n\nFinancial Assistance Available \n\n\n\nWe never want the cost of a program to prevent anyone from participating. If you would like financial assistance or a scholarship\, please contact Susie Brent. We would be happy to help make your participation possible. \n\n\n\nFlow of the Evening5:00–5:55 PM — Dinner & Fellowship6:00–6:10 PM — Welcome & Introductions6:10–6:35 PM — Centering Prayer6:35–7:15 PM — Welcoming Prayer Program7:15–7:30 PM — Break7:30–8:30 PM — Welcoming Prayer Program \n\n\n\nThe Welcoming Prayer Practice \n\n\n\nThe practice has three simple movements: \n\n\n\n1. Feel and sink into what you are experiencing in your body.\n\n\n\nBecome aware of the feelings\, sensations\, emotions\, and thoughts arising within you. Rather than trying to change or analyze them\, allow yourself to experience what is present. \n\n\n\n2. Welcome what you are experiencing in this moment.\n\n\n\n“Welcome” does not mean that we approve of everything that happens or that harmful circumstances should be accepted without appropriate action. Rather\, we welcome the opportunity to consent to God’s presence and action within us in this moment. \n\n\n\n3. Let go.\n\n\n\nGently let go of the desire for security\, affection\, and control\, and deepen your consent to the present moment as it is. \n\n\n\nThrough repeated practice\, Welcoming Prayer can help loosen the hold of our habitual emotional reactions and create greater interior freedom—the freedom to respond to life from a deeper place of presence\, compassion\, and love. \n\n\n\nA Companion to Centering Prayer\n\n\n\nCentering Prayer and Welcoming Prayer naturally support one another. \n\n\n\nIn Centering Prayer\, we practice consenting to God’s presence and action within us during periods of silence. In Welcoming Prayer\, we carry that consent into the movement of ordinary life. \n\n\n\nA difficult conversation\, disappointment\, fear\, frustration\, uncertainty\, or even the small irritations of the day can become an invitation to pause\, become present\, and return to consent. \n\n\n\nIn this way\, contemplative prayer gradually becomes not simply something we practice\, but a way of living. \n\n\n\nThe practice reflects a fundamental movement of the spiritual journey: learning to release the patterns and attachments of the false-self system and becoming increasingly available to the transforming presence and action of God within us. \n\n\n\nFor more information: Susie Brent – susiebrentcostl@gmail.com \n\n\n\nLearn More\n\n\n\nPlease link to the official Contemplative Outreach Welcoming Prayer page: \n\n\n\nhttps://www.contemplativeoutreach.org/welcoming-prayer-method \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration:\n\n\n\n \n\n X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Phone(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer background(Required)How did you hear about this event?(Required)Newsletter\n \n \n Yes\, please add me.\n \n \n \n No\, thank you\n \n \n \n I already receive it.\n Please select your newsletter preference. If you already receive our newsletter\, leave the selection as shown.Registration Fee(Required)\n \n \n In Person\n \n \n \n Zoom\n \n \n \n Recording Only\n In Person: $25 per person (includes dinner) — Zoom or Recording Only: $10 per person.\nThis field is hidden when viewing the formAttendance(Required)\n \n \n In Person\n \n \n \n Zoom\n \n \n \n Recording Only\n Zoom and recording participants may use the discount code ZOOMREC10 to reduce the registration fee to $10. If you prefer to support COSTL with the full $25 registration fee\, simply do not enter the code.Number of Attendees(Required)Please enter a number from 1 to 3.Additional AttendeesIf you are registering for more than one person\, please list the name(s) of the additional attendee(s) here.Dinner(Required)\n \n \n Yes\, I will join you for dinner\n \n \n \n No\, I will not be joining you for dinner\n Dinner will be served from 5:00–5:55 PMService OpportunityVolunteers help make events like this possible\, and we deeply appreciate any support to help lighten the load! Your presence is more than enough\, but if you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup\, and/or stay 30 minutes after for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Clean Up\n Add a DonationYour registration fee helps support this program. If you would like to offer an additional donation\, your generosity helps COSTL provide programs\, scholarships\, and other resources that support our contemplative community. Thank you for your support.YesNoDonation AmountPlease enter the amount you would like to donate.\n \n Total Payment to COSTL\n \n Payment Method(Required)\n \n \n Pay online by credit card\n \n \n \n Mail a check\n \n \n \n Pay at the door – In Person Attendees Only\n Please select your preferred payment method. Your registration reserves your place\, and we plan food\, materials\, and seating based on our registration count. If your plans change\, please let us know as soon as possible.Paying by check:\nPlease make your check payable to COSTL and mail it to:\n\nCOSTL\nc/o Mary Anne Chorney\n1437 Cave Springs Estate Dr\nSt. Peters\, MO 63376Coupon Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n IMPORTANT: All information provided with your registration is strictly confidential and will not be sold or shared with another organization. We value your privacy and will use your information only for purposes related to your registration and our programs.FINAL STEP: Complete the “Verify you are human” step below. Once you see “Success!”\, click SUBMIT REGISTRATION to complete your registration.\n\nAfter submitting\, scroll to the bottom of the event page to confirm that your registration was successfully received. You will also receive an immediate notification email from Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis with the event details.\n\nIf you do not see the confirmation on the event page AND receive the notification email\, please check your spam or junk folder. If the email is not there\, please contact us at centeringprayercostl@gmail.com.\n\nThank you!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/es-the-welcoming-prayer-october-28th-2026/ CATEGORIES:EnLIGHTenment Series ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/oWHMO8vU5uBpa1LbHDJ32nUviFwfJBR9LB2r7XpT2RHIEOFQeKeNmSI_aFBLzrNf6D42cPOVERux3SYWNSrVXQ6eFn9meLhRoBYAgQPD-UdXldKjVmfZEOIni4o9yGulSNzaSyPklunTBMcsRc8iY8TagqaSk3NFlazXsAp0I_jov4CM5ait10Kqy7KIxF5S.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T150000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261019T213340Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261022T045521Z UID:77938-1794056400-1794063600@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:Soul Trekkers Nature Walk DESCRIPTION:Soul Trekkers \n\n\n\nAutumn Light\n\n\n\nAn Afternoon Contemplative Walk \n\n\n\nLed by Colleen Baum\, Professional Arborist\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGathering at 12:45pm\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSoul Trekkers combines Centering Prayer and meditation with a quiet\, contemplative experience of nature. \n\n\n\nAs autumn unfolds\, we are invited to slow down\, listen deeply\, and discover what nature and the trees themselves have to teach us. \n\n\n\nColleen thoughtfully selects each location to complement the insights she hopes to share. Her knowledge of trees and the natural world enriches our experience\, helping us notice what we might otherwise overlook. \n\n\n\nAlong the way\, Colleen will offer reflections while honoring our shared silence and contemplative experience. Together\, we will allow the landscape to guide our attention\, deepen our listening\, and awaken us to the quiet presence of the Divine in creation. \n\n\n\n\n“The place itself becomes the teacher.”— Belden C. Lane \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat to bring:\n\n\n\nComfortable walking shoesWater bottle and a small plastic bagWeather-appropriate clothingAn open heart and attentive spirit\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSunset Cemetery\n\n\n\nAddress 10180 Gravois RoadAffton\, Missouri 63123 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur nature guide\, Colleen Baum\, brings more than 20 years of experience as an ISA Certified Arborist and owner of Droege Tree Care in St. Louis. This marks the third year Colleen has guided our Soul Trekkers walks. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA little history on the formation of the Soul Trekkers\n\n\n\n\n\nIn 2022 following a 7 day silent retreat in Snowmass\, CO at St. Benedict’s Monastery\, Jennifer Beeman\, Heather Fricke and Susie Brent gathered with Jenny Adamson and Pat Johnson to discuss potential avenues for sharing the methods of centering prayer with the next generation. It was suggested to combine centering prayer with an activity such as yoga or art.  It was agreed upon that contemplative prayer may enhance and be enhanced by any activity that lends itself to a stillness in mind and heart\, a joy within\, and being truly present in each moment. The divine dwelling within can be communed with while hiking beneath the trees\, free flowing with a favorite melody\, exploring and creating in a favorite artistic medium\, within the deep breath taken while settling into a yoga pose\, energy breath work\, or while listening to the draw of classical piano music. These are just some avenues to become more comfortable with simply being.It is the Soul Trekkers intent to investigate the many branches of the Tree of Contemplative Practices combined with guided Centering Prayer meditation sessions to inspire exploration\, joy\, and connection in a fellowship of contemplative travelers.  While centering prayer guidelines will be offered\, any and all meditation disciplines are welcome. The goal is to embrace stillness and foster a relationship with the God within each of us and our true authentic selves. Come share in the beautiful intimacy that stillness in community has to offer.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage by Carrie Bergman \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n For any questions please email: cpsoultrekkers@gmail.com \n\n\n\nRegistration:\n\n\n\n \n\n X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Background(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer backgroundHow did you hear about this event?(Required)Newsletter(Required)\n \n \n Yes\, please add me.\n \n \n \n No\, thank you.\n \n \n \n I already receive your posts.\n Please select your newsletter preference. If you already receive our newsletter\, leave the selection as shown.Registration Fee(Required)Registration Fee is $15 per person\n \n \n Price:\n \n \n \n Number of Attendees(Required)Please enter a number from 1 to 3.Please enter the number of people attending\, including yourself.AdditionalIf registering more than one person\, please list the names of your additional attendees.Optional Donation\n \n If you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses.Total Payment to COSTL\n \n Thank you for your generosity and support of Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis.Payment Method(Required)Please select your payment method. Credit card is the default. Space is limited to 25 participants. If your plans change\, please let us know as soon as possible. \n \n \n Pay online by credit card\n \n \n \n Mail a check\n Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Mary Anne Chorney \n1437 Cave Springs Estate Dr \nSt. Peters\, MO 63376IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.FINAL STEP: Complete the “Verify you are human” step below. Once you see “Success!”\, click SUBMIT REGISTRATION to complete your registration.\n\nAfter submitting\, scroll to the bottom of the event page to confirm that your registration was successfully received. You will also receive an immediate notification email from Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis with the event details.\n\nIf you do not see the confirmation on the event page AND receive the notification email\, please check your spam or junk folder. If the email is not there\, please contact us at centeringprayercostl@gmail.com.\n\nThank you!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/soul-trekkers-nature-walk/ CATEGORIES:Soul Trekkers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Autumn-Morning.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T200000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261002T214226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214227Z UID:77845-1794506400-1794513600@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:A Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering November 2026 DESCRIPTION:Back to Basics \n\n\n\nA Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal GatheringFacilitated by Charlie Lawrence \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJesus said to them\, ”Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while”. Mark 6:31 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBack to Basics is a gathering for anyone who would like a little “shot in the arm” for their Centering Prayer practice and for anyone who simply loves the prayer.Each gathering begins with a 20-minute period of Centering Prayer followed by questions and responses\, discussion\, sharing\, and occasional video presentations that support and deepen our understanding of the contemplative journey.Whether you are new to the practice\, returning after some time away\, or have been practicing for years\, you are welcome.Come renew your commitment to the practice\, deepen your understanding of Centering Prayer\, and enjoy the support and encouragement of a contemplative community.  \n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a way of consenting to God’s presence and action within.” \n\n\n\n— Basil Pennington\, ocso \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and walk ins are welcome. \n\n\n\nTime:\n\n\n\n\n6:15 – 6:30 p.m. Gathering\n\n\n\n6:30 p.m. Program Begins\n\n\n\n8:00 p.m. Conclusion\n\n\n\n\nPlease bring a notebook. It is recommended to bring your book Open Mind\, Open Heart\, by Father Thomas Keating if you have one. This is a beginner book with questions and answers specifically about the centering prayer practice and the spiritual journey. It is a great companion for the journey. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a discipline to foster interior transformation\, initiated by God and leading\, if we consent\, to divine union. One’s way of seeing reality changes\, which empowers one to perceive and respond to everyday life with sensitivity to the divine presence in\, through and beyond everything.” \n\n\n\n—Thomas Keating\, Open Mind\, Open Heart \n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information\, contact Charlie Lawrence at Charlesn.lawrence2@gmail.com \n\n\n\nRegistration for Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering:\n\n\n\nThis event is free\, however all donations are appreciated. Contemplative Outreach is an unincorporated non profit organization \n\n\n\n \n\n X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer background(Required)Which gatherings will you be attending?(Required)\n \n October 8th\, 2026\n \n \n November 12th\, 2026\n \n \n December 10th\, 2026\n VolunteerVolunteers help make events like this possible\, and we deeply appreciate any support to help lighten the load! Your presence is more than enough\, but if you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup\, and/or stay 30 minutes after for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Clean Up\n Do you want to be added to our mailing list?(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n \n \n \n I already receive your information\n Add a DonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. YesNoDonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. \n \n Total Contribution to COSTL\n \n Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Susie Brent \n489 Staines Court \nSt. Louis\, MO 63141IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ \n \n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/a-centering-prayer-follow-up-renewal-gathering-november-2026/ CATEGORIES:Back to Basics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/pexels-raybilcliff-1494639.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T153000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033459 CREATED:20261002T223619Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T070702Z UID:77868-1794645000-1794670200@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:Visioning & Discernment Day DESCRIPTION:Special Event \n\n\n\nVisioning Day\n\n\n\nListening Forward\n\n\n\n\nVisioning Team\n\n\n\nCOSTL Team\, Susan Komis\, Frank Krebs\, othersand You!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGathering at 8:30 am\, Event Starts at 9:00 am\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVisioning & Discernment DayListening Together\, Moving Forward Together\n\n\n\nOur November 14 gathering will be a day of gratitude\, reflection\, shared discernment\, and renewed commitment to the contemplative life and our community. \n\n\n\nAdditional details about the day’s program will be shared as plans continue to unfold. \n\n\n\nWe are delighted to share that Susan Komis will offer a presentation entitled From Mythic to Mystic: The Essence of Contemplative Service. Her presentation will invite us to reflect on how our contemplative practice shapes the way we live\, serve\, and participate in community. \n\n\n\nFrank Krebs will also assist in guiding our day of reflection and discernment\, helping us listen more deeply to one another and to the movement of the Spirit within our community. \n\n\n\nAs we gather\, we will celebrate the gifts and graces of the past year\, reflect on what has nourished our contemplative journey\, and explore together what may be emerging for Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis. \n\n\n\nOur Purpose\n\n\n\n\nTo gather in gratitude for the people\, experiences\, and graces that have shaped our community.\n\n\n\nTo deepen our understanding of contemplative service and how it finds expression in our everyday lives.\n\n\n\nTo listen prayerfully to one another and discern what is being invited of us\, individually and collectively.\n\n\n\nTo encourage shared participation in nurturing and sustaining our contemplative community.\n\n\n\n\nWhat We Hope Will Emerge\n\n\n\n\nA renewed appreciation for the ways God has been present and active in our community.\n\n\n\nA deeper sense of connection\, belonging\, and shared responsibility.\n\n\n\nGreater clarity about the programs\, relationships\, and opportunities that will nourish our community in the coming year.\n\n\n\nA willingness to respond to the Spirit’s invitation through prayer\, presence\, and service.\n\n\n\n\nAbove all\, this will be a day of listening together\, discerning together\, and discovering how we might move forward together. \n\n\n\nOur plans for this special gathering are still evolving. We look forward to sharing additional details as the program takes shape. Please check this website for updates and further information. \n\n\n\nBreakfast & LunchA light continental breakfast will be available beginning at 8:30 AM\, followed by a catered lunch. You are also welcome to bring a dish to share\, if you wish. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocation\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister now to join us in prayer\, reflection\, and visioning for the future of COSTL.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Address \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n \n This field is hidden when viewing the formAttendance TypeI will attend the sessions (pick one please)\n \n \n In-person\n \n \n \n Zoom\n \n \n \n Watch Recording\n BackgroundPlease briefly share your contemplative prayer backgroundNetworkHow did you hear about this event?NewsletterPlease select your newsletter preference. If you already receive our newsletter\, leave the selection as shown.\n \n \n Yes\, please add me\n \n \n \n No\, thank you.\n \n \n \n I already receive it\n Service OpportunityVolunteers help make our events possible\, and we’re grateful for your support! If you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup and/or stay 30 minutes afterward for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Bring a Light Dish\n \n \n Clean Up\n Number of Attendees(Required)Please enter a number from 1 to 3.Additional AttendeesIf you are registering for more than one person\, please list the name(s) of the additional attendee(s) here.DonationThis event is free\, and donations are entirely optional. If you wish to support the mission and programs of Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis\, your gift of any amount helps sustain our programs\, scholarship fund\, and other operating expenses. All are welcome\, regardless of their ability to contribute.\n \n \n Yes\, I would like to donate via credit card.\n \n \n \n Yes\, I would like to donate via mailed check.\n \n \n \n I will donate at the event.\n \n \n \n No donation at this time.\n Visioning Day 2026 Donation\n \n Donation Total\n \n Credit CardCard Details\n Cardholder Name\n \n \n Thank you for supporting Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis!\n\nPlease make your check payable to COSTL and mail it to:\n\nCOSTL\nc/o Mary Anne Chorney\n1437 Cave Springs Estate Dr\nSt. Peters\, MO 63376\n\nPlease write Visioning Day 2026 on the memo line of your check.\n\nYour generosity helps sustain our programs\, scholarship fund\, and other operating expenses.IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.FINAL STEP: Complete the “Verify you are human” step below. Once you see “Success!”\, click SUBMIT REGISTRATION to complete your registration.\n\nAfter submitting\, scroll to the bottom of the event page to confirm that your registration was successfully received. You will also receive an immediate notification email from Contemplative Outreach of St. Louis with the event details.\n\nIf you do not see the confirmation on the event page AND receive the notification email\, please check your spam or junk folder. If the email is not there\, please contact us at centeringprayercostl@gmail.com.\n\nThank you!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/visioning-discernment-day/ CATEGORIES:Special Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/candles.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T200000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033500 CREATED:20261002T214223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214225Z UID:77849-1796925600-1796932800@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:A Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering December 2026 DESCRIPTION:Back to Basics \n\n\n\nA Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal GatheringFacilitated by Charlie Lawrence \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJesus said to them\, ”Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while”. Mark 6:31 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBack to Basics is a gathering for anyone who would like a little “shot in the arm” for their Centering Prayer practice and for anyone who simply loves the prayer.Each gathering begins with a 20-minute period of Centering Prayer followed by questions and responses\, discussion\, sharing\, and occasional video presentations that support and deepen our understanding of the contemplative journey.Whether you are new to the practice\, returning after some time away\, or have been practicing for years\, you are welcome.Come renew your commitment to the practice\, deepen your understanding of Centering Prayer\, and enjoy the support and encouragement of a contemplative community.  \n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a way of consenting to God’s presence and action within.” \n\n\n\n— Basil Pennington\, ocso \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and walk ins are welcome. \n\n\n\nTime:\n\n\n\n\n6:15 – 6:30 p.m. Gathering\n\n\n\n6:30 p.m. Program Begins\n\n\n\n8:00 p.m. Conclusion\n\n\n\n\nPlease bring a notebook. It is recommended to bring your book Open Mind\, Open Heart\, by Father Thomas Keating if you have one. This is a beginner book with questions and answers specifically about the centering prayer practice and the spiritual journey. It is a great companion for the journey. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Centering Prayer is a discipline to foster interior transformation\, initiated by God and leading\, if we consent\, to divine union. One’s way of seeing reality changes\, which empowers one to perceive and respond to everyday life with sensitivity to the divine presence in\, through and beyond everything.” \n\n\n\n—Thomas Keating\, Open Mind\, Open Heart \n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information\, contact Charlie Lawrence at Charlesn.lawrence2@gmail.com \n\n\n\nRegistration for Centering Prayer Follow-Up & Renewal Gathering:\n\n\n\nThis event is free\, however all donations are appreciated. Contemplative Outreach is an unincorporated non profit organization \n\n\n\n \n\n URLThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer background(Required)Which gatherings will you be attending?(Required)\n \n October 8th\, 2026\n \n \n November 12th\, 2026\n \n \n December 10th\, 2026\n VolunteerVolunteers help make events like this possible\, and we deeply appreciate any support to help lighten the load! Your presence is more than enough\, but if you’d like to help\, please arrive 30 minutes early for welcoming or setup\, and/or stay 30 minutes after for cleanup.\n \n Welcoming\n \n \n Set Up\n \n \n Clean Up\n Do you want to be added to our mailing list?(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n \n \n \n I already receive your information\n Add a DonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. YesNoDonationIf you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. \n \n Total Contribution to COSTL\n \n Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Susie Brent \n489 Staines Court \nSt. Louis\, MO 63141IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ \n \n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/a-centering-prayer-follow-up-renewal-gathering-december-2026/ CATEGORIES:Back to Basics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/pexels-raybilcliff-1494639.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033500 CREATED:20261023T011455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261023T011457Z UID:77070-1797064200-1797073200@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:Silent Saturday with Lectio Divina - 12/12/26 DESCRIPTION:Silent Saturday with Lectio Divina\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“The fruitfulness of lectio divina presupposes a certain calmness of mind when we come to it….By reading … scripture\, … perhaps only a few words\, we find ourselves in the presence of God\, … our friend – this extraordinary person we are trying to know. We need to listen eagerly to words\, applying our whole being to them. This is the reason the ancient custom was to read aloud\, or at least to form the words on one’s lips\, so that the body\, too\, entered into the process. The Holy Spirit inspired those who wrote the scriptures and is also in our hearts inspiring us and teaching us how to read and listen. When these two inspirations fuse\, we really understand what scripture is saying; or at least we understand what God at this moment is saying to us through it.” (The Heart of the World by Father Thomas Keating pgs. 46-47) \n\n\n\n\nListen\, that you may have life. \n\n\n\n“Were not our hearts burning [within us] while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32 NAB \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFind God in the Silent Love of Self Surrender. \n\n\n\n“The language God best hears is silent love.” \n\n\n\n Saint John of the Cross \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nContemplative Outreach St. Louis invites you to come help create a safe and quiet space where we can rest in the divine presence\, bearing witness to our individual and collective need to do so. A time of prayer\, scripture\, sharing and support for the journey. \n\n\n\nThe facilitators for this program are Sarah Legett \n\n\n\n\n\nFlow of the Day:\n\n\n\n\nWelcome! And Gathering for a half hour\n\n\n\nGuided Lectio Divina session\n\n\n\nOptional sharing\n\n\n\n15 minute break\n\n\n\nA reading of the Centering Prayer guidelines\n\n\n\n1st Centering Prayer period\n\n\n\n2nd Centering Prayer period.\n\n\n\nOpportunities for Prayer requests\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSaturday\, December 12th\, 2026Doors open and Gathering at 8:30 am\, We begin at 9 am & end at 11 am \n\n\n\n Light refreshments will be available \n\n\n\nSilent Saturday is at: Community of Christ Church\, 830 N Kirkwood Road\, Kirkwood\, MO 63122\n\n\n\nPlease register: We look forward to seeing you. Walk-ins are welcome.There is no fee for this event but if you would like to make a donation of $10 or any amount to help cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses\, it will be gratefully accepted. This is purely a suggestion and not meant to be a barrier to attendance. All are welcome.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are blessed to have videos presented by Father Thomas Keating on Lectio Divina\, calling us into a deeper relationship with God. Lectio Divina draws from scriptural and/or other sacred reading\, meditation\, and prayer to promote communion with God and increase the knowledge of God’s Word.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCentering Prayer and Lectio Divina with Thomas Keating\, Part 1: In this talk\, Fr. Thomas explains that Lectio Divina is meant to be an experience of scripture in which one listens for God rather than reads for content. The words penetrate one in a dynamic process under the guidance of the Holy Spirit\, gradually moving one into deeper union with God. Fr. Thomas describes the traditional four ‘moments’ of Lectio Divina in a circular format; the experience is not linear as all the ‘moments’ are interrelated. This conference was given at the Lectio Divina Institute held on January 17-21\, 1997\, at the Benedictine Center in Beech Grove\, Indiana. \n\n\n\n\n\nCentering Prayer and Lectio Divina with Thomas Keating\, Part 2: In this talk entitled “Principles for the Practice of Lectio\,” Fr. Thomas explains that Lectio is the process of assimilating the Gospel and being assimilated by it.  He describes five moments in this process: 1) Beginning prayer to the Holy Spirit as your Guide\, 2) Noticing how scripture is mirroring your life\, 3) Experiencing the Word of God as directed to different levels of consciousness\, 4) Reading your experience of grace into the scriptures\, and 5) becoming the Word of God in a particular human situation. This conference was given at the Lectio Divina Institute held on January 17-21\, 1997\, at the Benedictine Center in Beech Grove\, Indiana. \n\n\n\n\n\nFour Steps of Lectio Divina\n\n\n\nThere is no standard way of doing lectio divina\, but the following method has proven helpful to beginners. \n\n\n\n\nRead (Lectio): Read a passage from Scripture. “Listen” to God’s word. Gather the facts. Does a particular word or phrase speak to you?\n\n\n\nReflect (Meditatio): Read the passage again. Reflect on the passage as a whole or on a particular phrase. What is God saying to you?\n\n\n\nRespond (Oratio): Read the Scripture once again. Respond to God with your heart. What do you want to say to God?\n\n\n\nRest (Contemplatio*): Read the selection a final time. Rest in God’s presence for a few minutes.\n\n\n\n\n* Strictly speaking\, contemplation is a gift of grace that depends on the movement of the Holy Spirit. It is a real awareness of God\, desiring and loving Him\, beyond concepts\, feelings\, and particular acts. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\nPlease register and submit the online form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/silent-saturday-with-lectio-divina-12-12-26/ CATEGORIES:Silent Saturday ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMG_6991.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270102T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270102T160000 DTSTAMP:20261023T033500 CREATED:20261002T223402Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T223404Z UID:77864-1798898400-1798905600@centeringprayerstl.org SUMMARY:Poetry\, Centering Prayer\, and Journaling 2027 DESCRIPTION:Soul Trekkers \n\n\n\nPoetry\, Centering Prayer\, and Journaling\n\n\n\nPresented by Dwight Bitikofer\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGathering at 1:30pmSnacks\, coffee and tea will be available.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nContemplative Outreach “Soul Trekkers” invite you to a time of creative expression and Centering Prayer\n\n\n\nAs we embark on this New Year\, we invite you to join us for an enriching event where Dwight will share his inspiring poetry\, encouraging all participants to tap into their own creative expression. This gathering will also include a session of Centering Prayer\, a practice that deepens our connection to spirituality and fosters personal exploration. Additionally\, we will engage in the meditative practices of journaling and poetry\, offering an opportunity for reflections. We warmly welcome individuals at all levels of experience\, from beginners to seasoned practitioners\, to come together in this supportive community as we collectively explore our journeys.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDwight will open with a few remarks about poetry and centering prayer. We will explore a couple of poems that may enhance our sit. \n\n\n\nThen the four guidelines of Centering Prayer will be reviewed and lead into a  20 minute sit. \n\n\n\nFollowing the meditation\, we will free-write for a bit. Please bring a notebook and pen.  Next\, we will use an idea or two from our individual writing to create poems. There will be an optional sharing time for our creations.\n\n\n\nWe follow that with a poetry writing exercise\, stimulated by something from within the free write or perhaps some direction emanating from one’s sacred word. \n\n\n\nThen there will be an opportunity for participants to share what they have created.  And conclude with any questions or comments about your experience.  \n\n\n\n\nPlease bring a pen and notebook.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGathering at 1:30pm to 2:00pm – Bring a snack or refreshment to be enjoyed before or during the break of this event if able. Snacks\, coffee and tea will be available.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity of Christ Church\n\n\n\nAddress 830 N Kirkwood RdSt. Louis\, MO 63122 \n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDwight Bitikofer has been active in St. Louis poetry circles for two decades. For a number of years he frequented open mic circles and curated several monthly poetry events. He has taken  poetry classes at the University of Iowa Summer Writing Festival. Dwight has published two chapbooks of his own poetry. He enjoys giving readings. With a jazz musician friend\, they have performed “pojazz” together. He is also a board member and past president of St. Louis Poetry Center.  \n\n\n\nDwight is a long-time member of Al-Anon. His centering prayer practice began just over five years ago. He is still practicing. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA little history on the formation of the Soul Trekkers\n\n\n\n\n\nIn 2022 following a 7 day silent retreat in Snowmass\, CO at St. Benedict’s Monastery\, Jennifer Beeman\, Heather Fricke and Susie Brent gathered with Jenny Adamson and Pat Johnson to discuss potential avenues for sharing the methods of centering prayer with the next generation. It was suggested to combine centering prayer with an activity such as yoga or art.  It was agreed upon that contemplative prayer may enhance and be enhanced by any activity that lends itself to a stillness in mind and heart\, a joy within\, and being truly present in each moment. The divine dwelling within can be communed with while hiking beneath the trees\, free flowing with a favorite melody\, exploring and creating in a favorite artistic medium\, within the deep breath taken while settling into a yoga pose\, energy breath work\, or while listening to the draw of classical piano music. These are just some avenues to become more comfortable with simply being.It is the Soul Trekkers intent to investigate the many branches of the Tree of Contemplative Practices combined with guided Centering Prayer meditation sessions to inspire exploration\, joy\, and connection in a fellowship of contemplative travelers.  While centering prayer guidelines will be offered\, any and all meditation disciplines are welcome. The goal is to embrace stillness and foster a relationship with the God within each of us and our true authentic selves. Come share in the beautiful intimacy that stillness in community has to offer.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information: Dwight Bitikofer – 314-229-9537 or cpsoultrekkers@gmail.com \n\n\n\n For any questions please email: susiebrentcostl@gmail.com \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration:\n\n\n\n \n\n LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Background(Required)Please briefly share your contemplative prayer backgroundIf you are bringing guests\, please list their names below. Thank youHow did you hear about this event?(Required)Do you want to be added to our mailing list?(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n \n \n \n I already receive your informative posts.\n If you wish\, please support us \nThis event is free. However If you wish\, please support us with a donation of your choice\, which helps cover our rent\, website maintenance\, scholarship fund and other expenses. This is purely a suggestion and not meant to be a barrier to attendance. All are welcome. \nDonations to Contemplative Outreach St. Louis are not tax-deductible.\nTo make a tax deductible donation\, go to the International Contemplative Outreach Organization website at ContemplativeOutreach.org Donation(Required)Would you like to add a donation to your attendance?\n \n \n No donation at this time.\n \n \n \n Yes\, I would like to add a donation via credit card.\n \n \n \n Yes\, I would like to donate via mailed check.\n \n \n \n I will donate at the event.\n Donation Amount(Required)\n \n Total Donation to COSTL\n \n Credit Card(Required)Card Details\n \n Cardholder Name\n \n Make it payable to COSTL and mail it to: COSTL c/o Susie Brent \n489 Staines Court \nSt. Louis\, MO 63141IMPORTANT:  All information provided with your gift is strictly confidential and will never be exchanged with another organization or sold to anyone for other use. You may rest assured that we value your support and would not put you or your identity in jeopardy.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ \n \n\n\n\n\nHaving trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com. URL:https://centeringprayerstl.org/event/poetry-centering-prayer-and-journaling-2027/ CATEGORIES:Soul Trekkers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://centeringprayerstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1zo0qlfge0g.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR