Membership to Contemplative Discipleship: Using Contemplative Praxis to Enhance Spiritual Growth

This thesis explores the role of contemplative spirituality, particularly through practices such as meditation, Lectio Divina, and silence, in fostering spiritual growth within the context of Visitors Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. In an era marked by rapid change and increasing distractions, the need for deeper spiritual engagement has become paramount. This study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing interviews, teaching modules, participant observations, and reflective journaling to investigate how these contemplative practices can enhance individual and communal spiritual development. The findings suggest that meditation serves as a vital tool for cultivating inner peace and awareness, allowing individuals to connect profoundly with their faith. Lectio Divina, as a meditative reading of Scripture, facilitates a transformative engagement with biblical texts, encouraging deeper understanding and personal reflection. Additionally, the practice of silence is highlighted as a necessary counterpart to active spirituality, providing a space for listening to God and fostering a more profound sense of presence in daily life and worship. This research, using 18 participants, contributes to the understanding of contemplative spirituality within the African Methodist Episcopal Church context. It offers insights into how these practices when integrated into the congregational life of Visitors Chapel Church, increase spiritual growth. By emphasizing the importance of intentional spiritual practices, this dissertation aims to inspire church leaders and members to embrace contemplative spirituality as a pathway to enriched faith experiences and holistic spiritual growth.