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Is there only one way to meditate as a Christian?

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Philip Kosloski - published on 03/18/24

Christian meditation is complex, allowing for a variety of ways, but always going back to an encounter with Jesus Christ.

Meditation is a form of prayer that is present in a variety of religions, including Christianity.

Christians are allowed to participate in meditation, provided that it facilitates a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, and does not use methods that are contrary to the Catholic faith.

However, this does not mean that there is only one way to meditate.

For Catholics in particular, there are a variety of ways to engage in Christian meditation.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church is clear that there is not a single way to meditate:

There are as many and varied methods of meditation as there are spiritual masters. Christians owe it to themselves to develop the desire to meditate regularly, lest they come to resemble the three first kinds of soil in the parable of the sower.

CCC 2707

The central key to distinguish if it is a valid way to meditate is the end goal. If the meditation method is focused on Jesus Christ and building a deep, personal relationship with him, then it is likely a good method:

But a method is only a guide; the important thing is to advance, with the Holy Spirit, along the one way of prayer: Christ Jesus.

CCC 2707

If that goal is not present, then it may not be a method that any Christian should engage in.

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BibleCCC PrayerPrayer
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