School of Lectio Divina

Christian in its origin and ecumenical in its scope

It wasn’t what I wanted. It wasn’t what I expected.  It was exactly what I needed. – John

The Benedictine Center of St. Paul’s Monastery’s School of Lectio Divina adapts the ancient monastic riches of sustained lectio divina to contemporary people. According to Dr. Kathleen Cahalan, “sustained lectio divina” is the dialogue with God through the text over time. Through an intensive retreat experience set in the rhythm of life at St. Paul’s Monastery, participants receive teaching about lectio, spend time meditating on a sacred text significant for them, have the opportunity for individual spiritual direction, and participate in reflective conversation with other participants.  Retreat includes five nights lodging in a private room and all meals.

In addition, the Benedictine Center will provide a variety of on-going support activities and resources after the retreat to help participants make sustained lectio core to individual prayer and spiritual development. Limit 12. Apply online or email benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org.

Example Schedule

Saturday

7:00a       Shared Silence

7:30a       Breakfast

8:00a       Morning Prayer with the Monastic Community

8:30a       Session 3: The Literal Voice

9:30a       Break

9:45a       Lectio Companions

11:30a      Midday Prayer with the Monastic Community

12:00p     Lunch

1:30p       Session 4: Thoughts of the Body

2:40p      Shared Silence

3:00p      Break

3:20p      Session 5: Thoughts of the Body (cont.)

4:30p       Break

5:00p       Vigil with the Monastic Community

6:00p       Desert Practice

Application Process

Based on the observations of master teachers of lectio divina, this experience works best for those who have had some initial experience with the practice of lectio divina and seek to foster a commitment to sustaining it. Participants need to be comfortable with silence, willing to trust the process, and contribute to mutual learning. Familiarity with the Benedictine tradition is helpful, but not essential.

Because of the intense nature of this experience, we limit enrollment to 12 participants. The application process helps clarify expectations and enables the staff to determine whether there is a good match between people’s personal goals and backgrounds and the outcomes of this spiritual development process.

All information provided in the following application will be held in confidence. We review completed applications for the Schools of Lectio Divina on a revolving basis. You may use this form to apply for any upcoming School. Early applications will receive first consideration; once the retreat capacity is reached, a waiting list will be opened.

1. Complete your application online. (Some guests find it easier to preview the questions, type their responses in another program, and then cut and paste when they are completely ready.)
2. Provide two letters of recommendation to benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org.
3. A $50 deposit will be requested of those who are accepted to a School of Lectio Divina.

Questions?

Sometimes a conversation with one of the team members can be helpful. Simple call 651.777.7251. Otherwise, email benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org.