Professional Documents
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Sacred Readings For Personal Edification
Sacred Readings For Personal Edification
[Lectio Divina]
Journey With Me
Contents
Foreword - [Bro.] Justus Van Houten, S.S.F., Society of St. Francis, American Province
Acknowledgements
Dedication
Introduction
- St. Augustine
- St. Francis
Resources
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Foreword
Cecilia Askew's approach to Lectio Divina includes two notable insights. One is that the
writings of the saints and mystics can be used as well as Holy Scriptures. These non-
Biblical passages reflect the Gospel as these holy people have internalized their
encounters and reflections of God. Their new images and understandings can
sometimes spark our own reflections as we are confronted with timeless
truths expressed with a new vocabulary.
The other insight is that Lectio Divina can be used as a corporate exercise as well as an
act of personal piety and devotion. The method she describes is one that I have found
useful within Franciscan households, seminary classrooms, and even with prison
inmates. It has the added dimension of accountability. What good does is it if we hear
the Gospel but do not respond to it? An intention to respond to it is a first step but to
actually respond is what makes a difference. To make a commitment to respond to the
Gospel in a concrete and confirmable way helps us to make the Scripture a part of us.
There is an old concept of "habitus" to make prayer, the Bible, and Sacred study a daily
habit, to become steeped in the spiritual life, for it to become as natural as breathing and
as familiar as our "boudoir." Lectio Divina is one of the tools to develop this attitude of
"habitus". Thanks to Cecilia for making this tool more widely known and available.
(Bro) Justus Van Houten, S.S.F. – Society of St. Francis – American Province
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Acknowledgements
Once again, Cecilia Askew has made a sincere effort to share her wisdom and
experience with the people of The Bahamas and the world. I look forward to using it as
a part of my daily devotions and will certainly recommend it to others who wish to
deepen their commitment to God.
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Dedication
This little booklet is dedicated first to the Sisters of the Order of St. Helena with
whom it has been my pleasure to journey as an Associate for over twenty years.
I am grateful to Fr. Luke Dysinger of St. Andrew’s Abbey who allowed me to share
some of his insights.
I am equally indebted to Brother Justus of the Society of St. Francis for his
encouragement.
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Preface
From the early 19th century onwards, the sacred scriptures of Christianity have become a
quarry for scholars. Not that there were no biblical scholars before then, but whereas the
old scholars mingled their tasks with their faith and personal devotion, modern scholars
have had the option of scrutinizing the sacred texts in a pseudo-scientific manner, with
academic objectivity, detached from the faith and devotion of personal and corporate
Christianity. There are naturally some benefits in this approach, but it is becoming
increasingly evident that, if you treat the Bible in this fashion, it opens up the danger of
missing the entire point of sacred scripture.
Both the Old and the New Testaments were written “from faith to faith”. There is very little
in them that is academic, however much they may appeal to the modern academic mind.
The Bible is a prime source for conveying to humankind the living Word of God, in order
that our relationship with the Divine may be nurtured and grow. The Scriptures are
eternally relevant within “the household of faith”. Without faithful meditation, prayer,
and a contemplative approach, the Scriptures lose their point and purpose and are
emptied of their challenge.
We are fortunate that the understanding of the sacred in the created order can live on
and flourish in a secular world, as indeed it must if we are not to be lost and
overwhelmed in what seems to some people to be an increasingly meaningless, hostile
and love-less universe. The ancient and prayerful art of Lectio Divina will always help us
to listen more attentively to the Word which is “spirit and life” (John 6.63), and thereby
help us to be open to the Spirit of God, for ourselves as well as on behalf of others
whose ears may, for the time being, be closed to God’s living and loving Word.
Martin Tunnicliffe,
Chaplain of The Fellowship of Contemplative Prayer
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Introduction
Romans 12:6-8 says, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a
man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him
serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is
contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him
govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” [NIV]
My spiritual journey began in 1976 when I rededicated my life to the Lord and came to
terms with the fact that I would be a single parent. Spiritual growth over the decades
has taken many forms. In 1984 I joined a band of courageous women and became an
Associate of the Episcopal Order of St. Helena. This has proven to be the best decision
I could ever have made. It was through this involvement, which continues today, that I
came to the knowledge of Lectio Divina. Over the last few years or so I have found this
type of prayer more beneficial than any other. It is seeing me through grief and sorrow,
but at the same time, drawing into a more intimate relationship with my Lord. So much
so that I joined the Society of St. Francis as an Associate and have made Lectio Divina a
part of my Rule of Life. I would say here that I have also been guided in this practise by
the works of Fr. Luke Dysinger, OSB. I have been privileged also to join with the Sisters
at St. Martin’s Convent.
I therefore am persuaded to share the benefits of this model of prayer with others,
particularly those who lead busy lives. The book is by no means an authority on the
subject nor is that the intended purpose. It is however; my way of carrying out the word
of God stated above “if it is encouraging, let him encourage….” So be encouraged and
enjoy the benefits of a closer walk with God.
For further teaching and encouragement with regard to Lectio Divina, I encourage you to
purchase and read from the list of resources that have helped me and visit the websites.
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The Personal Journey
The Christian journey is a special one. It is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ that
is unique to each individual. Jesus Christ comes to us in different yet profound ways.
The religious of the early church found this out when they practised a pattern of prayer
called “Sacred Readings” or Lectio Divina [which in Latin means “sacred reading”].
Many Christians use one of the daily readings from a lectionary or scriptural devotional.
It should be noted that Lectio Divina could be done with the written works of others like
St. Augustine, St. Francis and St. Ambrose all of whom have written works that nurture
and help our spiritual growth.
Michael Casey in his book Sacred Reading – The Ancient Art of Lectio Divina says,
“repetition is the soul of genuine Lectio. It is right brain activity; we do not grasp the
entire content immediately but in a circular manner. We read and advance, then we go
back and read again. With each repetition, something new may strike us”. When I read
that statement it helped me to understand why a passage is read three times. From
experience, I know that after each reading it is possible for a new thought to occur.
The duration of time for Lectio Divina is varied. At first it may be all you can do to keep it
to ten minutes. Gradually however, the time span will increase and like the Sisters and
Brothers in Community, you may be able to go for as long as a half hour. The half hour
can be split into three intervals of 10 minutes or two intervals of 15 minutes. The Holy
Spirit will direct you to the time frame that is best for you. There are many sites on the
Internet that allow you to join in Lectio Divina, the Order of St. Benedict and The Call to
Holiness websites.
The following guide is for persons doing personal lectio or sacred readings. You should
note that the stages are not separate, but should into each other:
1. First you read a passage of scripture or prayers and prose purposely, letting the
words settle in your mind. Remember that you are gently being led into God’s
presence, seeking him in silence.
3. Allow the meditation to lead you into prayer using the word or phrase to speak to
God. Rest in the quiet stillness of God’s embrace and then gently end the
period of Lectio. Most use the “Our Father Prayer”. However, I have found using
the first few verses of the psalms like 91 or 27 equally helpful.
This model of prayer enhances devotions and increases one’s knowledge of the
Scriptures. Throughout the world, persons are engaging in Lectio Divina on a daily basis
and you are encouraged to use this model of prayer. It is meant to compliment your
devotional prayer time not replace it. Lectio Divina can be done regularly at a separate
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prayer time or incorporated into your regular devotions; either way the benefits are
immeasurable.
The procedure for Lectio Divina in shared community or group is patterned after the
model used and promoted by Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B. of St. Andrews Abbey in
California, USA. It has been slightly modified and is as follows:
1. The Literal Sense – Listening for the Gentle Touch of Christ in the Word
a. One person reads aloud [twice] the passage of scripture, as others are
attentive to some segment that is especially meaningful to them.
b. Silence for 1-2 minutes. Each hears and silently repeats a word or
phrase that attracts.
c. Sharing aloud: [A word or phrase that has attracted each person]. A
simple statement of one or a few words. No elaboration.
g. Third reading by still another person [again using another version of the
scripture passage if available].
h. Silence for 1-2 minutes. Reflect on: “God invites me to do/be/become….
today/this week.”
i. Sharing aloud: at somewhat greater length the results of each one’s
reflection. [Be especially aware of what is shared by others.]
j. After full sharing, pray.
[Note, anyone may “pass” at any time. If instead of sharing with the group they
may prefer to pray silently, simply state this aloud and conclude your silent prayer
with AMEN.]
A – Choose a time frame that is good for you. [Early morning, Afternoon or
Evening depending on your schedule].
B. – Have a quiet place set aside where there is very little or no distractions.
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C. – Sit quietly in a comfortable position and allow your breathing pattern to slow
down. Some advocate that using “centering prayer” or a “prayer word” such as
Jesus, Peace, Love, or Abba is helpful to begin Lectio.
Having established time, place and comfort area, you are now ready for your Sacred
Reading/ Lectio Divina.
Scriptures have been provided as help only. Please feel free to use scriptures from your
lectionary or prescribed daily devotionals. My experience has shown me that I can use
this method of prayer with special intentions or just to nourish my spirit. Let the Holy
Spirit be your guide.
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Sacred Readings for Advent
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
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Sacred Readings for Lent
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
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Tuesday Jer. 13:1-11 Matt. 20:17-20 Exodus 6:1-
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Wednesday Ps. 34:1-10 Rom. 6:1-11 John 5:19-24
Thursday Jer. 18:1-11 Exodus 5:1-9 Eph. 5:8-14
Friday Ps. 34:11-18 Rom. 7:1-6 Heb. 8:6-13
Saturday Matt. 27:1-10 Matt. 27:11-19 Matt. 27:20-
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Week 5
Holy Week
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Sacred Readings for Special Intentions
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Saturday 1 Kings 17:13-16 Matt. 2:13-15 Matt. 1:18-25
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Portrait of St. Augustine
The written work of Saint Augustine takes the form in many instances of confessions as
they speak to us about his life after conversion. We journey with him, noting the reality
of the Christian who struggles with doubts, fears and, sorrow even though Jesus Christ
is an intimate friend. The writings I have chosen to share reflect not only Augustine’s
spiritual journey but the way of every born-again Christian.
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For as little as 10 minutes you can become one with Saint Augustine as you read,
meditate and pray. Like him let your prayer be:
Sacred Readings
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Seeking
Father,
I am seeking:
I am hesitant and uncertain,
but will you, O God,
watch over each step of mine
and guide me.
[Confessions XI, 17]
Here is my heart
Here is my heart, O God,
here it is with all its secrets;
look into my thoughts,
O my hope,
and take away all my wrong feelings:
let my eyes ever be on you
and release my feet from the snare.
[Confessions IV, 6]
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Even in my spiritual weakness
I saw your splendour
and overwhelmed I said to myself:
Who can approach such glory?
Yet once again I have let myself
be driven back out of your sight.
Setting us free
When we confess our wretchedness to you
and acknowledge your mercy to us,
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we are revealing your love for us,
so that, as you have begun,
so may you complete the task of setting us free:
that we may cease to be unhappy in ourselves
and become happy in you;
for you have called us
to become poor in spirit,
to be meek and to mourn,
to hunger and thirst for justice,
to be merciful, pure in heart
and authors of peace.
[Confessions XI, 1]
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By your word
How, O God, did you
Create heaven and earth?
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Happy is he who loves you
O Lord God of truth,
Is scientific learning enough
to obtain your favour?
Unhappy is he who has all knowledge
yet does not know you;
but happy is he who does know you
yet is ignorant of all else.
Anyone who has both
is not made any happier by human
knowledge;
he is happy through you alone,
if in knowing you he honours you
and continually gives thanks for your
greatness.
[Confessions V, 4]
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Praying To God The Source of All Gifts
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Image of St. Francis of Assisi
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Saint Francis of Assisi was born at Assisi in Umbria in either 1811 or 1812.
His conversion is a result of incarceration and illness. His writing reflects that of one has
come to know the triune God in a very personal way. He founded the Franciscan Order,
which has opened the way for laypersons to become a part of this ministry through what
is known as the Third Order. He is also known as the patron saint of animals and the
environment.
To learn more about Francis of Assisi I refer you to the following resources:
www.americancatholic.org
www.s-s-f.org
Like St. Paul, Francis of Assisi’s writings and prayers are exhortations. You are invited
to read, meditate and pray with him.
Sacred Readings
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[Praying with Saint Francis]
A Prayer of Praise
We thank you
that through your Son you created us,
and that through the holy love you had for us
you brought about his birth
as true God and true man
by the glorious, ever-virgin, most blessed, holy Mary,
and that you willed to redeem us captives
through his cross and blood and death.
[-Rule of 1221, Chapter XXIII]
Compassion
“For I, being in sin[s], thought it bitter to
look at lepers, and the Lord himself led me
among them, and I worked mercy with them.
And then I left their company, I realized that
What had seemed bitter to me, had been
turned into sweetness of soul and body.
[-The Testament of St. Francis]
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of God” [Jn *;47]. We who have been
commissioned to deal with things divine
should not only hear and fulfill what God says,
but, what is more, in order to root in ourselves
the transcendence of our Creator and our
obedience to him, we should take reverant
care of the sacred vessels and the
liturgical books which contain his holy
words.
[- Letter to the Whole Order]
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Personal Journal Entry Notes
January
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February
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March
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April
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May
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June
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July
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August
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September
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October
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November
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December
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
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For a little more than three decades, Chaplain Askew worked in the Financial and
Investment services industry in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. She received
training in Office Administration and was a member of the Institute of Commercial
Management of the United Kingdom until 2008.
A trained Pastoral Counsellor and Spiritual Director she also completed the requirements
for Level 1 Clinical Pastoral Education and is a Certified Chaplain with the College of
Pastoral Supervision & Psychotherapy [Bahamas/Caribbean] which is under the
auspices of the Public Hospital Authority [Bahamas]. For the past three years she held
Pastoral Care membership with the Association of Christian Counsellors [UK] and is
currently member of Spiritual Directors International.
She serves the Anglican Diocese of The Bahamas as the Pastoral Care Ministries
Coordinator, Director of the Marriage & Family Life component of the Alpha Course and
is a Chaplain and Education Facilitator for the Ecumenical Health Care Ministry.
She is a Christian author and has written many articles for bible study and devotions.
First and foremost however, she is a daughter of the KING of Kings and walks by
faith and not by sight.
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BOOKS
Lectio Divina
By Basil Pennington
WEBSITES
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The Order of St. Benedict
http://www.osb.org/lectio/index.html
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