Visio Divina

Visio Divina is an ancient form of contemplative prayer. Visio Divina uses an art form like a painting, a sculpture or a drawing to engage our visual senses as we enter and linger in God’s presence.

The basic steps in practicing this form of prayer and meditation are as follows:

1. Close your eyes and pray. Ask the Holy Spirit to calm your mind.
2. Breathe deeply (Inhale -hold your breathe for atleast 5 seconds- exhale slowly)
3. Read the passage in focus.
4. Close your eyes. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts.
5. Now look at the image/sculpture or drawing.
   1. look at the whole image. Note what catches your eye.
   2. Close your eyes.
   3. Now open your eyes and focus your attention on what caught your attention.
   4. Close your eyes and allow your mind to make connections between the text and the part of the image you are focusing on.
   5. open your eyes and gaze at the entire image.
6. Close your time in prayer.