September 28, 2025 Essay: Meeting Christ in Prayer: My Experience

I was deeply blessed to participate in the Meeting Christ in Prayer retreat this past spring. The thoughtful structure, inspiring facilitators, and supportive participants made the experience truly unforgettable. Each session was carefully designed, and the weekly exercises and assignments helped me stay disciplined and intentional in my prayer life. This structure encouraged me to carve out meaningful time for reflection and spiritual growth.

One of the most enriching aspects of the retreat was being introduced to various methods of prayer. I especially connected with Lectio Divina, which allowed me to engage more deeply with Scripture and feel a profound closeness to Christ. During these prayer exercises, I often felt the presence of God in a tangible way. It was like entering into a sacred dialogue with him.

Imaginative prayer was initially a challenge for me, but with time and practice, I was amazed at how vividly I could place myself within the Gospel scenes. When I engaged my senses of sight, sound, smell, and touch, the readings came to life and helped me experience Christ’s love in a new and intimate way. These prayer practices have become part of my spiritual routine, and I plan to continue using them.

Overall, Meeting Christ in Prayer has transformed not only my spiritual life but also my personal and professional life. I feel more grounded in hope and more intentional about placing God at the center of my life above work, responsibilities, and distractions. I continue to prioritize time for daily prayer, trusting in Christ more fully and seeking his guidance in all areas of my life.

Equally powerful was the sense of community I experienced in Meeting Christ in Prayer. I felt truly seen, heard, and welcomed by both the facilitators and fellow participants. The love, acceptance, and encouragement I received filled me with immense hope, and I pray I can offer the same to others. I could not have asked for a more grace-filled group of people to share this journey with.

I am profoundly grateful for this retreat and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper connection with Christ through prayer and reflection. It is a beautiful way to encounter Christ in a personal and transformative way.

— Janet L.