Contemplative Prayer Forms
A downloadable resource for individuals, groups, and retreat settings
The Christian contemplative tradition has given us many paths into silence, awareness, and encounter with God. They are not in competition with one another. Each one opens a different door into the same house.
This guide offers an introduction to eight contemplative practices — their origins, what they involve, and the distinctive insight each one carries. Practices covered include Centering Prayer, Lectio Divina, Ignatian Contemplation, Visio Divina, the Welcome Prayer, a Drifting Prayer, Christian Meditation, Eucharistic Adoration, and Sacred Noticing.
Each entry includes a short list of resources for those who want to go further.
The guide is designed for use in group discussions, retreat settings, or personal reflection. It does not rank these practices or argue for one over another. It simply describes what each tradition has developed — and invites the reader to notice which doors they have walked through, and which they might open.
Compiled by Michael J. Cunningham, OFS, D.Min. · June 2026
Sacred Noticing is one of the practices described in this guide. If you are new to it, you can learn more [HERE], or explore The Practice of Sacred Noticing (Contemplative Company, 2026).