What is “Visio Divina?”
This phrase translates to divine seeing. What is this form of prayer? What exactly does divine seeing mean for us ordinary Catholics?
Well, if you’ve ever been in a church adorned with beautiful art or stained glass, you may already know more than you think you do!
Simply put, visio divina is a form of contemplative prayer that involves prayerful meditation accompanied by sacred images.
Think about how a striking crucifix becomes an invitation to encounter Our Lord’s Passion more deeply. The visual image of His wounded side, pierced hands, and bloody head helps us recognize the reality of Our Lord’s sacrifice. It stirs up sentiments of gratitude, awe, and love.
By engaging one’s senses, emotions, and imagination, visio divina can be a fruitful way to deepen one’s prayer life.
At this point, you may be wondering how visio divina really works. Is it simply just looking at any piece of religious art?
Well, not exactly. Let’s walk through the steps of visio divina together:
- See: Begin by slowly looking at a sacred image, whether it’s an icon, a painting, or any religious artwork. Allow your eyes to wander, taking in the details without rushing or overanalyzing.
- Reflect: Reflect on what the image is trying to convey. What draws your attention? What emotions or thoughts arise? Consider the story, symbols, or figures in the artwork and how they relate to your faith.
- Pray: Speak to God about what you have seen and felt. This step is a personal conversation with the Lord, using the image as a starting point. Ask for insight, express gratitude, or share your concerns with God.
- Rest: Finally, sit in silence, resting in God’s presence. Allow yourself to be still, trusting that God speaks in the silence of your heart. Let the image lead you into a deeper sense of peace and awareness of God’s love.
It’s a simple but powerful process! Visio divina has been a favorite prayer practice of many saints. St. John of Damascus, a 7th-century Doctor of the Church, was a great advocate for the use of icons in prayer. He said, “The image is a hymn of praise, a witness to the Gospel, a silent messenger, and an unending act of worship.”
Visio divina reminds us that our faith is not just heard or read but also seen and experienced in the beauty that surrounds us. As Catholics, not only is visio divina a part of our spiritual tradition, but we also have inherited the most beautiful treasury of sacred art to pray with! In Sacred Art Every Catholic Should Know, you’ll discover some of the timeless works of Catholic art that have inspired saints for centuries. Order your copy today and bring the beauty of Catholic art and the power of visio divina into your home!
