Guidelines for Faith Sharing in Centering Prayer Groups

 

1.    We accept one another as we are.

2.    We do not give advice.

3.    We do not criticize what others share.

4.    We listen attentively, without interruption, when someone else is speaking.  In this regard, we avoid any "cross-talk."

5.    We keep the sharing in the group absolutely confidential.

6.    We gather to care, not to cure nor remove the crisis or pain.   God does the healing.

7.    We make sure that each person who wants speak will have a chance to speak.  We give the opportunity for all to speak before someone speaks a second time.

8.    We are always free to remain silent if we wish.

           

          Important Points to Consider 

a.     "Personal sharing" is not a discussion of ideas, but a discussion of my personal spiritual journey.

b.    When sharing my own personal experience of Centering Prayer, it is helpful to keep the focus on “I statements,” not “we”, “they,” or “them” statements.

c.     It is often helpful to begin the personal sharing by asking yourself this question: "What has been my experience of Centering Prayer this past week?”