BodyPrayer

Not too long ago I witnessed author and pastor Doug Pagitt leading a large group — several hundred conference attendees — in a series of “prayer postures.” The position of our hands and arms (outstretched? folded across our chest?), our heads (uplifted? downcast?) echoed and even amplified the prayers of our hearts. I was reminded that when we attempt to communicate with God discursively, we quickly reach a wall, but as western distinctions of “body,” “mind,” and “soul” recede, we begin to more-fully experience our own prayers with our whole being.

To this end, Pagitt and Kathryn Prill have released a simple compendium called BodyPrayer: The Posture of Intimacy with God. Chapter by chapter the authors outline prayer-types (e.g.: prayer for healing) with accompanying postures (e.g.: praying with one’s palms out, facing up). Simple figure-drawings clarify and embellish the chapters.

Although the book’s list may be used prêt-à-pratiquer—these are great for corporate gatherings—the book also encourages individuals and communities to work out their own body prayers. Those comfortable with yoga and other physical meditative practices should be instantly at home with the offerings Pagitt offers; those of us less-comfortable with our own bodies might need some time to warm up to the idea of using these in a congregational context. But as the Church ponders both ancient and new ecclesial practices, this insight has wonderful implications for both personal and corporate prayer.

BodyPrayer : The Posture of Intimacy with God
by Doug Pagitt, Kathryn Prill
Hardcover, 160 pages, $15.99 retail
WaterBrook Press
Language: English
ISBN: 1400071488
7.4 x 5.3 x 0.7 inches; 8.0 ounces

Available through Viva Books.

Comments

[Cliff Knighten]

Paul,
Thanks for the referral to Viva. Of course, Viva is the best source for any books desired by your highly astute readership.