How to pray lectio divina with kids
I first heard of lectio divina when I started graduate theological studies. Thankfully, I was blessed to study with the Benedictines, who are steeped in this prayer practice (which St. Benedict wrote about in his Rule dating back to 500). So I learned from wise sisters and brothers how to make this “holy reading” of scripture part of my prayer life. And I’ve been grateful ever since.
But here’s the thing about lectio divina. Actually, here’s the thing about 90 percent of traditional spiritual practices. They require
- uninterrupted time
- uninterrupted space
- peaceful quiet
With three young kids? I have almost 0 percent of this. So I have to improvise. And after years of messy practice, here’s the way we pray lectio divina with the least among us. (In size, not wisdom!)
