LECTIO DIVINA

Pronounced “Lex-ee-oh Duh-veen-uh” (Latin for “Divine (Godly) Reading”)

Lectio Divina is an ancient practice of reading the Bible in a slow and prayerful way. When done properly, Lectio Divina helps readers experience God speaking to them through the scriptures.

“If Lectio Divina is effectively promoted, this practice will bring to the Church – I am convinced of it – a new spiritual springtime.” – Pope Benedict XVI

The “Movements” of Lectio Divina

*Traditional Movements listed in red. Common additions listed in blue.

1. “STATIO” (Position)
   Prepare by getting away from distractions (find a quiet room, turn off all electronics, etc.), then get into a calm, prayerful state (close your eyes, breathe deeply, repeat a slow and simple prayer, etc.).

2. “LECTIO” (Reading)
   Read (either silently or aloud) a small section (between 1 verse and a short chapter) of the Bible (the Gospels are an excellent place to start). When you read be sure not to rush. The goal is not to finish quickly, but to soak it all in s l o w l y.

3. “MEDITATIO” (Meditation)
   Read what you just read again, this time stopping at words or phrases that “punch” you or jump out at you (you may want to underline, highlight, or write down these words or phrases as you read). Meditate on each word or phrase, asking, “Why are these words or phrases jumping out at me? What is it God wants to tell me?”

4. “ORATIO” (Prayer)
   Pray with the words or phrases you just meditated on. Allow them to sink deep into your soul. Ask God to change your life with what you read.

5. “CONTEMPLATIO” (Contemplation)
   Sit and enjoy the presence of God. Think about how much God loves you (literally to death). Imagine God giving you a big ol’ bear hug or snuggle. Let God hold you and allow Him to love you.

6. “COLLATIO” (Discussion)
   When doing Lectio Divina with another person or a group, spend time discussing how God spoke to you through what you read.

7. “OPERATIO” (Operation/Action)
   “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Commit to some kind of an action step based on your Lectio Divina time. Ask yourself, “What am I going to do today/this week/for the rest of my life because of this?”

Another way to describe the 4 main movements:

1. “LECTIO” (Reading)
   Take a bite (Read it 1x)

2. “MEDITATIO” (Meditation) = Chew it
   Read it again and focus on the words and phrases which jump at you

3. “ORATIO” (Prayer) = Savour it
   Think about what you just read and enjoy it

4. “CONTEMPLATIO” (Contemplation) = Digest it
   Allow it to provide sustenance for your spiritual life