Silent meditation in the Christian contemplative tradition is a prayer practice of learning the art of listening. To listen, one must do three things: be still, put self aside and be attentive. If one can do these three things, one will discover a depth of listening. Stillness and silence allow space for receiving. This book focuses on how these enable one to receive the gospels. It offers a weekly reflection over the three-year lectionary cycle to systematically teach the practice of silent meditation or pure prayer.

Endorsements

'...what a wonderful affirmation of the radical change of direction in Christian life and spirituality is witnessed by this book you are reading. It is a sign of the renewal

of Christian wisdom in our time.'

LAURENCE FREEMAN OSB, Director of the World Community for Christian Meditation

'Silent Meditation and the Gospels is a book to be treasured. With great wisdom and insight Michelle and Paul have drawn on Bible stories, and stories from the Christian contemplative tradition, to illuminate the practice of meditation, and also show how meditation can deepen and enrich our engagement with Scripture.'

ROLAND ASHBY, Contributing Editor of Living Water and Coordinator of the World

Community for Christian Meditation in Victoria, Australia

'In Silent Meditation and the Gospels, Michelle and Paul show how bringing the practice of silent meditation directly to bear on the reading and preaching of the lectionary cycle is mutually illuminating, deepening our prayer, our theology and, ultimately, our love. This is is an important and timely resource for the emerging contemplative church.'

REV. DR SARAH BACHELARD, Benedictus Contemplative Church

'As someone who has followed the lectionary readings throughout my ministry, the encouragement this book gives to re-engage in silent meditation and contemplative prayer as one prepares for every Sunday across the lectionary's three-year cycle, is timely and appreciated. The invitation for it to be used individually, or in a liturgy group setting, opens the possibilities of deeper connection with God through engagement with the scriptures, and a wider reflection and engagement with the societies in which we live. A very welcome addition to my toolkit.'

THE MOST REVEREND KAY GOLDSWORTHY AO, Archbishop of Perth

'Silent Meditation and the Gospels is the beautiful gift of Michelle and Paul. As a frequent participant of their online meditation group, Quiet Communion, I love the visual and spiritually artistic way they offer illuminating Gospel reflections and silent meditation.'

BISHOP PHILIP HUGGINS, Anglican Church, Diocese of Melbourne