Prayer background

Prayer Methods

Contemplation, Imaginative Prayer, Lectio Divina, Colloquy — four ways to encounter God in Scripture.

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How to Begin Ignatian Prayer

Ignatian prayer is about being present to God in a personal and loving way. Here are a few simple steps to help you begin:

  1. 1. Find a Quiet Space: Choose a place where you can be still, away from distractions. Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths.
  2. 2. Ask for God’s Presence: Begin with a short prayer: “Lord, help me to be open to You as I pray.”
  3. 3. Read or Recall Scripture: Take a short passage from the Gospels or a verse that speaks to your heart. Read slowly and attentively.
  4. 4. Enter into Prayer: Use one of the Ignatian methods — Contemplation, Imaginative Prayer, Lectio Divina, or Colloquy — to encounter God in the text.
  5. 5. Close with Gratitude: End by thanking God for what you experienced, even if it was simply the grace of showing up in prayer.

Designer note: This guide is meant to feel like a gentle invitation — encouraging visitors to try, not demanding perfection.

Four Ways to Pray

Explore time-tested pathways to a living encounter with Christ.

Contemplation

In contemplation, you place yourself inside a Gospel story as if you were truly there. You watch the scene unfold, listen to the words spoken, and let yourself be touched by what Jesus says or does. This prayer engages the imagination, the senses, and the heart, drawing you into a living encounter with Christ.

Imaginative Prayer

Similar to contemplation, imaginative prayer allows you to let the Holy Spirit use your imagination as a pathway to God. You may picture Jesus speaking to you directly, or visualise a scene from your own life in His presence. It is a way of letting God’s word take root in your inner world, shaping your desires and choices.

Lectio Divina

An ancient way of praying with Scripture, Lectio Divina means “sacred reading.” You slowly read a passage several times, listening for a word or phrase that stirs your heart. You reflect on it, speak to God about it, and finally rest in silent contemplation. This prayer teaches you to listen deeply to God’s voice in the Word.

Colloquy

A colloquy is a heart-to-heart conversation with God. It is simple, personal, and intimate — speaking with Jesus as one friend speaks to another. You may share your joys, struggles, hopes, or fears, and then sit quietly to listen for His response. This prayer form is about relationship and trust.