STATION 2: ICON GAZING

Icon gazing uses the practice of visio divina, a form of divine seeing in which we prayerfully invite God to speak to our hearts as we look at an image. 

Visio divina actually has its roots in the ancient practice of icon gazing.

We look at an image with the eye of the heart. As we gaze, present to an image without any particular agenda, we allow it to speak to us in words or wordlessly with a divine voice.

As you gaze at an image, you will be offered some questions for silent reflection, some of which may speak to you, while others you may choose to ignore.

Instructions for visio divina with an icon:

How do you feel looking at the image? 

If you had to describe the image in a sentence or two silently to yourself, what would you say? 

If you were in the image, where would you place yourself ? 

Do you get a glimpse of the sacred from this image? Is God speaking to you in this image?

Does a name for God arise for you from this image? In silence, sit with what you have received. 

If you choose, share aloud a word or phrase to express your experience of the image.