Submitted by Rob on September 17, 2007 - 2:34pm.

"In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. Then God said, 'Let there be light' and there was light" Genesis 1:1-3.

Reading the Manual is a new Spirit Garage small group. This is a Training the Trainers in depth Bible study for those who want to deepen their own devotional life and learn how to lead a study for others. We invite you to join us for our gatherings on Sunday afternoons 3-4:30 PM, from September 23-December 16.

Included in our study are daily devotions that as a benefit to the greater community we hope to share online.

We are using Lectio Divina, "[It] is reading or more exactly, listening to the book [Bible] we believe to be divinely inspired. In this way we hear the word of God in the scriptures. It is the most ancient method of developing friendship with Christ by using scripture texts as topics of conversation with him." Thomas Keating.

The 4-stages, moments or movements in Lectio Divina are otherwise known as the 4- R's.

R - Reading: Lectio
R - Reflecting: Meditatio
R - Responding: Oratio
R - Resting: Contemplatio; a contemplation, centering prayer.

How to do Lectio:

1. Choose a text of the Scriptures.
2. Place yourself in a comfortable position.
3. Turn to the text and read it slowly. (Read) Have a listening heart, filled with unhurried expectations.
4. Take a word or phrase into yourself. Memorise it, repeat it allow it to interact with your inner concerns. Do not be afraid of distractions. Ponder the words and be invited into a dialogue with God. (Reflect). Ask, "Lord, What are you saying to me in this reading today?"
5. Speak to God. Use your own words to pray - prayer of the heart. (Respond) Honestly pour yourself out to God. Let God hear whatever feelings, thoughts, questions you may have.
6. Finally simply rest in God's embrace. (Rest) Be in the presence of God as discovered in this experience.

Questions, contact Rob Norris-Weber 612-312-3419

• Location: 5404 Girard Avenue South, Minneapolis 55419
• Start: 23 Sep 2007 - 3:00pm
• Stop: 23 Sep 2007 - 4:30pm

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