Chapel at Western Theological Seminary
Visio / Lectio Divina
Lectio or Visio Divina enables the congregation to encounter the same section of the Word multiple times. At the heart of the service, a single text is read multiple times followed by silence, while the congregation listens and ponders. The reading may be supplemented by graphic images set in juxtaposition to the text.
Structure
When planning a Lectio/Visio Divina service, begin with selecting a Scripture passage and/or image and then follow this basic structure for the service:
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Invitation: The people of God are invited to encounter the Trinity by both word and symbol.
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Praise: An optional song of praise centers our hearts on God.
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Listening: Introduce the text and invite the participants to listen to a word from God as you read through the passage slowly and with appropriate emphasis. You may choose to read the text multiple times.
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Meditating: Allow for silence, potentially followed by a time of shared reflection, to rest with the word or phrase to which the Spirit drew you.
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Praying: Lead the people in a conversation with God, independently or corporately, as a response to what God revealed during the meditation.
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Sending: Send the people of God out with benediction.
Example
Video
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