October 2026 Servi Christi Event
The Power of Contemplative Prayer
At our October Servi Christi event, Rick Clements, Ph.D., presented “The Power of Contemplative Prayer,” an inspiring reflection on how a deeper life of prayer can draw us closer to God and transform the way we live our Catholic faith. He emphasized that contemplative prayer is not reserved for saints or those with extraordinary spiritual gifts. Rather, it belongs at the heart of Christian life, offering each of us an opportunity for a more personal encounter with Jesus Christ and a deeper union with God.
Rick Clements explained that the goal of contemplation is not to seek unusual or mystical
experiences, but to spend time in God's presence and allow that relationship to change us. Drawing upon Scripture and the wisdom of saints and Catholic thinkers, he described prayer as fundamentally about relationship, love, listening, surrender, and transformation in Christ. He encouraged participants to use the Gospels as a foundation for prayer, imaginatively entering into scenes from Christ's life and reflecting upon His words, actions, and presence.
The presentation also offered practical ways to bring contemplation into everyday life. Rick Clements encouraged setting aside quiet time for prayer, resting in the presence of Jesus, and taking brief “contemplative pauses” throughout the day to recognize God's presence and give thanks. He also addressed periods of spiritual dryness, reminding us that prayer is not about the feelings or consolation we receive, but about faithfully remaining with God through both moments of spiritual joy and times of difficulty.
Perhaps most importantly, Rick Clements connected contemplation with action.
A deeper prayer life is not an escape from the world but a preparation to serve it. Prayer strengthens and guides our discipleship, allowing our service to others to flow from a deeper relationship with Christ. Although we may not always see the results of our prayers, he encouraged us to trust that God can use our prayers, sacrifices, and acts of love in ways that extend far beyond what we can see. In this way, contemplative prayer becomes not simply something we do, but a way of remaining rooted in Christ so that His love can flow through us into our families, communities, Church, and world.
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