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In a first for Mumbai, St. Anne Church,
Mazgaon, to introduce Contemplative Prayer.
St Anne Church in Mazgaon, Mumbai will become the
first church in the city to contemplative prayer, parish priest Fr.
Vincent Vaz, SJ, said here on Saturday. His announcement came during one of the
programmes being held in the church, to the build up for the grand opening of
the renovated church on the 30th Of December 2012. At todays programme, Fr.
Joseph H. Pereira, National Coordinator, World Community of Christian
Meditators (WCCM) trained parishioners and clergymen on the teaching of
Christian meditation.
Contemplative prayer and meditation, is a unique
field that helps develop sound mind and healthy physiques while bringing one
closer to God, said Fr. Joe, who is also the Founder Trustee, Kripa Foundation,
renowned as India’s largest NGO that rehabilitates alcohol and drug addicts
while helping curb HIV/ AIDS.
The Saturday event opened with Fatima D’Souza
introducing Fr. Joe to the congregation. Fr. Joe highlighted the significance
of contemplative prayer through a PowerPoint presentation, including the
teachings of Fr. John Maine, OSB and Fr. Laurence Freeman, WCCM’s history,
breathing techniques, benefits of Christian meditation, and gave
attendees a demo on chanting the word ‘Ma-ra-na-tha’. In his homily, Fr. Joe
focused on the readings from the Biblical chapters, Baruch, Philippians and
Luke while explaining the exact translation and meaning of the phrase
‘Metanoia’- which is composed of Greek words ‘Meta (beyond) and ‘Noia’ (Mind).
The event concluded with Fr. Vincent thanking
Fr. Joe for sharing his valuable experience and time and later announced the
introduction of Contemplative Prayer of WCCM at St. Anne Church when it reopens.
The programme ended with Fr. Joe conducting a meditation session after the
mass, sending the congregation home more enlightened about Christian Meditation.Submitted By
Ashwin Honawar
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News Desk
