Why contemplative practices? 
Christian schools should be places where educators and students alike find the resources and support needed to become transformed, vibrant, peaceful human beings and disciples. Yet Christian schools are beset by many of the same challenges that plague all schools today:
- a culture of distraction
- deteriorating mental health
- erosion of community and social bonds
- widespread disaffiliation from traditional religious institutions
Many schools are increasing their mental health resources for students, in some cases introducing mindfulness curricula into the school. Meanwhile a beautiful, powerful resource at the heart of the Christian tradition remains largely untapped, namely, Christian contemplative practices. Besides their potential to draw us deeper into prayer and relationship with God, these practices have been shown to improve:
- focus and attention
- learning outcomes
- mental and physical health
- relationships and community
Christian schools are ideal settings for engaging students with these practices that can help them live into the fullness of their humanity and the life to which God calls them
What are contemplative practices?
Contemplation most basically is the practice of resting in God’s love. As opposed to more active forms of prayer, it involves letting go of any effort or thoughts and simply being with God. From this basic practice flow numerous other practices for inhabiting time, teaching and learning, working with other, building and repairing community, rest, and recreation. Some specific practices include:
- lectio divina
- inner watchfulness
- holy pauses
- Sabbath rest
- compassion meditation