Lectio Divina - 2/2

This is the second installment of the posting http://visitation-seremban.blogspot.com/2010/01/lectio-divina-12.html which introduces Lectio Divina for personal meditation. In this second installment, we hope to explain how Lectio Divina can be use in the context of a group/ BEC.

B. BEC/ GROUP PRAYER

In addition to the above guidelines regarding personal prayer, the following steps may be taken when Lectio Divina is done in a small group / BEC.

LECTIO:
Try one or more of the following ways of reading the passage. See what works best for your particular group.
1. Individual reading. To start with give everyone time to read through the passage silently.
2. Proclamation of the Word. One person reads (proclaims) the Word. This is the traditional manner of reading in the liturgical celebration.
3. Two readers. Two people read the text aloud alternately.
4. Each person reads a verse. This is a way of involving each participant, inviting each to read from his own Bible, so that the reading is attentive and dynamic.
5. With different characters. Approach the text somewhat like a drama, in which one person is the narrator/reader, another takes the part of Jesus, a third takes another character. This can be the most dynamic or engaging method and helps us to identify just what the different characters in the passage are saying.

MEDITATIO:
1. In the group setting, it is important that everyone is given time to participate, to share what the Lord has been saying to them. While the Lord speaks through his Word, he also speaks to us through our brothers and sisters. So as we listen to others we need to open our hearts to hear the Lord’s voice speaking through them.
2. It is important that everyone in the group understands that this sharing is to build one another up and enrich our experience. It is not necessary that everyone agrees about what is shared. You need to be careful to avoid this time turning into a debate or argument. The Lord knows us each as individuals so will have different things to say to us personally at this specific point in our lives.
3. You can start with a simple question like “What catches your attention in this passage?” and use the printed questions. The aim is to help everyone feel comfortable to speak and share how the text has inspired them. Gently keep the group focused on the text and what God is saying.

ORATIO:
1. We suggest you give people time for personal silent prayer before God.
2. You can also give opportunity for people to pray out loud in their own words and use verses from the responsorial prayer. The aim should be to help each person make a personal response to the Lord during this time.

CONTEMPLATIO:
1. Contemplation by its very nature is an individual exercise and silence is necessary.
2. If you have room it may be helpful to suggest people move so they have their own ‘personal space’.

ACTIO:
1. Discuss the printed questions as a group. Brainstorm ideas and try to come to a consensus for a single action to be taken by the BEC/ small group.
2. See how certain action plans can be done personally.