The Contemplative Network is a virtual network that supports the development and sustaining of contemplative practices within a Christian framework. We are grounded in the Wisdom tradition through Centering Prayer and we aim to be supportive and inclusive of all Christian contemplative practices. We are open to people of any denomination and none, of pew sitters and armchair mystics.
Read more about "Home"...As many of us know, gardening is an activity that brings great opportunities for mindfulness practice.
Read more about "The Art of Mindful Gardening: The Tao of Poo"...From its beginning until the 16th century Christianity had at its core a unitive form of meditative prayer that culminated in an opening out into contemplation. Contemplation was seen as the the normal evolution of a genuine spiritual life. However as religious thought progressed it developed the capacity for precise analysis in regards to concepts, divisions into genera and species, and definitions and classifications. The passion for theological analysis was also applied to the practice of prayer bringing to an end the simple spontaneous form of prayer based of lectio divina with its opening to contemplative prayer. The living tradition of Christian contemplation diminished becoming lost in recent centuries.
Read more about "History of Christian Meditation"...Now on his first visit to New Zealand, Andrew's internationally acclaimed message calls us to a path of Sacred Activism.
Read more about "Sacred Activism"...The latest news from the Contemplative Network.
Read more about "News"...Today will be focused on how the Christian tradition teaches us to live mindfully in the present moment - practising the presence of God in all we do and say.
Read more about "Christian Meditation Community Day"...The format we will follow for this Interfaith Meditation evening is from the example given by the Dalai Lama and Laurence Freeman (world leader of Christian meditation) at some of their gatherings.
Read more about "Interfaith Meditation"...During this evening we will watch a DVD where people share their personal experiences of how the teachings of Buddha have enhanced their appreciation and practice of being Christian.
Read more about "Jesus & Buddha, Practicing Across Traditions"...This retreat is an opportunity for those interested in a week of personal spiritual deepening with an experienced spiritual companion.
Read more about "Six-day Live-in Individually Guided Retreat"...