Throughout history there has been a felt yearning of the human spirit to communicate with its creator. The practice of prayer and meditation in modern Western Christianity can trace important roots to early Church prayer, especially Eastern traditions, as well as the wisdom of early Church fathers. M. Basil Pennington, O.C.S.O., author of the highly acclaimed Daily We Touch Him, has developed a new approach to these ancient Christian forms. His 'centering prayer' combines the best of the Eastern Christian spiritual exercises (such as the Jesus Prayer) with a spirituality for today's world. He offers simple suggestions for overcoming problems that discourage people from praying well. Readers will learn how to relax for prayer, how to listen and be directed by the Other, how to handle the pain and distraction that stifle out attempts at achieving the highest possible communication with God. An eminently practical book, Centering Prayer is a source of real inspiration that shows--through a blend of East and West--our common love of God and belief in Jesus Christ.