Leading Lectio Divina

Some people have asked me lately about the process I use to lead Lectio Divina. Here are some thoughts on one process I often follow.

Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading) is an ancient method of praying the scriptures that can provide a guided format for a group or individual Bible Study. In Lectio Divina, we not only study the Bible, but the Bible studies us!

Here is the basic format for Lectio Divina, either for a group or your own personal devotions.

Choose a passage of scripture, usually of no more than 8-10 verses.

After beginning with an opening prayer, Lectio Divina has 4 steps.

1) Lectio (Read)

• One person reads the selected passage of scripture twice, as others listen for a word or phrase that captures their attention.
• Silence for 1-2 minutes. Everyone silently repeats the word or phrase that attracts them.
• Everyone shares aloud the word or phrase that has attracted them, with no elaboration.

2) Meditatio (Think)

• The passage is read again, by the same or another person.
• Silence for 2-3 minutes. Everyone pays attention to the thoughts and feelings that the word or phrase evokes. Ask, “How does this passage connect to my life today?”
• Everyone shares briefly the thoughts or feelings that they experience.

3) Oratio (Pray)

• The passage is read again, by the same or another person.
• Silence for 2-3 minutes (or longer). Everyone reflects on the question “What is God calling me to do or become through this text?”
• Everyone shares aloud at somewhat greater length what God is calling them to do or become.

4) Contemplatio (Rest)

• Spend 2-3 minutes (or longer) sitting silently, resting in the presence of God.
• End with a time of spoken prayer.