A series of meetings aimed at providing an opportunity for anyone who is interested in exploring prayer to look at different forms of Christian spirituality. Details of the current series are here.

In these meetings there is an emphasis on experiencing different ways of praying, with time afterwards to talk about what has been experienced. There is also an element of experimenting and so the topics are chosen to include as much contrast as the number of sessions will allow. This means that in each meeting some people will feel comfortable with what we are doing, whereas others may feel rather uncomfortable. We feel, therefore, that it is extremely important to hold each meeting in a safe framework, usually of traditional prayers or Bible reading. We are extremely aware of the fact that each person has their own way of praying, and that there are no right or wrong feelings or experiences of prayer. Everyone who comes to the meetings comes with an open mind and heart, ready to learn from others.

Previous meetings have all been extremely enriching, both in content and in the caring atmosphere of the group itself. Some of the topics we have looked at are Contemplative Prayer, Ignatian meditation, Liturgical prayer, Prayer in movement, Prayer in art and music. The pattern of meetings is not the same each year, and it is perhaps part of the experimental nature of the group that it evolves, rather than being fixed into a particular routine. It is important to be open to the Holy Spirit working in the opportunities which present themselves, in any difficulties encountered, and in the feelings of each individual.

Everyone is warmly invited to these meetings, in the hope that they may find something which enables them to respond to the invitation from God to deepen our relationship with him.

Meetings are in St Peters Church, Wolvercote, usually on the second Sunday of each month. They end well by the time stated.

For more details about these meetings contact the Rev’d Viv Bridges
(01865 558705, vivpbridges@btinternet.com).