Lectio Divina
Do you desire to read the Scripture daily but feel overwhelmed by it? Does it feel like the Bible can be dense and hard to understand? Below are a collection of resources on not only how to pray Lectio Divina, but options for both free & paid subscriptions to help you get started.
What is Lectio Divina?
Lectio Divina means sacred reading, and it’s a powerful way to pray with the Bible. It helps you really dive into the story and understand God’s message for your life.
How Do I Pray Lectio Divina?
Lectio Divina is comprised of four steps: Read, Meditate, Pray and Contemplate. Before you begin, select a passage from the Bible. If you’re not sure where to start, try using the Gospel passage for the upcoming Sunday. Find a quiet space and ask the Holy Spirit to help guide you through the steps below!
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Lectio (Read) —Read the passage slowly. Put yourself in the story or scene instead of focusing on a message for yourself. Visualize as concretely as possible the time, the place, and the people involved in the biblical story. Slow down. Savor the images. Pay attention whenever anything you read sparks a reaction from you. Read it several times!
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Meditatio (Meditate) —Try focusing on a word or phrase from the passage. One way to do this is by repeating the word or phrase out loud or in your head a few times.
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Oratio (Pray)—Allow the meditation to lead you to a conversation with God. Why did that word or phrase resonate with you? What is God calling you to think about? Don’t overthink it - remember that prayer is simply conversation with God about the matters on your heart!
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Contemplatio (Contemplate) —Spend a few moments resting in the presence of God!
Subscriptions
Hallow
Catholic prayer and devotional app. Both free and paid subscription versions.
Amen
A free Catholic prayer app from the Augustin Institute, that inspires you to daily conversation with God.
USCCB
Get the daily readings, podcast reflections, and video reflections sent to your inbox every morning for free.
Morning Offering
A free Catholic daily devotional email from The Catholic Company, delivering daily wisdom and inspiration to help you grow in faith. Subscription options include emails or video reflections.
Subscriptions with Reflections
Daily Divina
The Daily Divina is a daily email reflection from the Catholic Telegraph, that will help you dive into the day's scripture readings while only taking a few moments of your time.
Magnificat
Magnificat is a monthly publication designed for daily use that aligns your personal prayer life with the liturgical rhythm of the Church, while immersing you in ongoing Faith formation.
Word on Fire
The Word on Fire Mass Readings Supplement includes the daily Scripture readings, responsorial Psalm and the Order of Mass.