Introduction to Centering Prayer – via Zoom

Two Session Event: February 27th and 28th, 2023 from 6 PM to 8 PM (Central) each day.

The Introduction to Centering Prayer explores the place of contemplative prayer in the Christian tradition. As Jesus said, “But when you pray, go to your private room and, when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6)

The Introduction will guide you through the method of Centering Prayer and let you experience this prayer of silence. Centering Prayer’s purpose is to foster a deeper intimacy with Christ through silence and stillness. The presentation will include the conceptual background of Centering Prayer, psychological processes, and insights into establishing Centering Prayer as a way of life. There will be opportunities for discussion as well as invitations into prayerful presence.

This workshop is divided into four conferences across two days. Conferences 1 & 2 are on February 27 and conferences 3 & 4 on February 28. We plan to continue with 4 Follow-Up sessions at later dates.

To join us online, please email Sandra at: sandyandkali@sbcglobal.net.
Free will donation: $20 suggested. Click in the Event Website at the bottom of the page to donate to Contemplative Outreach Chicago.

Presenters:
Alan Krema is a commissioned Contemplative Outreach presenter of Centering Prayer and Welcoming Prayer. He is a Wisdom student of Cynthia Bourgeault and facilitates groups based on the Wisdom Way of Knowing. He has completed the Living School program at the Center for Action and Contemplation. Alan served from 2016-2022 as chapter coordinator for Contemplative Outreach Chicago and is enrolled in the Shalem Institute program for Group Spiritual Leadership.

Sandra Janowski is a retired Social Worker, Addiction Counselor and Community College Adjunct Instructor. In 2009 she completed a two year program in Spiritual Companionship and was commissioned by the Institute of Spiritual Companionship. Starting in 2016 Sandra became  a member of the Chicago Chapter “Circle of Service” and  has served as the Coordinator of Facilitators since 2018. In 2021 she was commissioned by Contemplative Outreach as a Centering Prayer Presenter. Currently she hosts a weekly Centering Prayer group on Meditation Chapel and co hosts a group at St Simon’s Episcopal Church. Sandra will be co-leading a seven day Silent Retreat at Sienna Center July 23 to July 29, 2023. She has 3 children, 4 granddaughters and 3 great-granddaughters.