MINDFULNESS and MEDITATION   at St. James’ Elstead

The pressures and bustle of modern life have intensified over the years and many seek escape into a state of peace or freedom from stress. We might be aware that we can find this within ourselves in special moments. Through the practices of Mindfulness and Meditation we can find a way of stabilising these special moments and integrating them into our daily life.

The practice of Mindfulness leading to silent meditation, recommended by many therapists, is not a modern fad. Mindfulness practices may seem to offer ‘new’ hopes and remedies but these do in fact reflect and are a manifestation of a perennial and universal wisdom, one that is perhaps found in all the major religions and philosophies.
Among the many aspects that Mindfulness and Meditation have in common is the necessity of practice. Like acquiring any other skill, the essence of meditation is that it becomes a way of life, not an occasional or one-off experience. We grow and cultivate the fruits of inner peace, stability and centred presence through practice. Commitment and self-discipline are both the way and the reward.

The Meditation Group at St James’ meets every Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. and we practice together a form of silent, imageless mindfulness or prayer using a mantra, or a prayer word.

The regular weekly one hour meeting includes a brief reading for the day, 30 minutes silent meditation, followed by a closing prayer, and conversation.
The group is completely open, welcoming anyone who may be curious, members of other churches, those of other faiths, and those who profess no faith but who would like to try this form of mindfulness meditation for themselves.
There is no cost and it is not necessary to attend every week – please just come along as you can or as you wish.

If you are interested or would like further information or an informal discussion please contact: Ray or Vicky Lamb on 01252 705064
St James’ Church, Thursley Road, Elstead Godalming, Surrey GU8 6L