Welcome

 

Welcome to the Heart of Texas chapter of Contemplative Outreach (HoTCO). Serving the Austin and Central Texas community, HoTCO offers programs and support for those who want to deepen their relationship with God through the practice of Centering Prayer.

HoTCO is very vibrant, offering lots of programs each year ranging from introductory workshops to daily and weekly Centering Prayer groups to 10-day intensive retreat experiences. No matter what stage you're at in your contemplative journey, HoTCO has something to offer you.

We also produce an email newsletter every month or two that you can subscribe to. It will keep you informed of upcoming Centering Prayer related events in Austin and Central Texas. We are also pleased to host the Center-L email discussion list on Centering Prayer and related topics. You can subscribe to Center-L and join others around the world who are interested in Christian contemplative practices.


Latest news...

  • Welcoming Prayer Immersion Retreat - August 20-24. An in-depth introduction, review and immersion into the Welcoming Prayer pratice to establish it as a part of our daily lives and to deepen our relationship with God. Prior Centering Prayer expererience required. Presenters are Timothy Koock and Cherry Haisten. Cost $495.00. For more information or reservations e-mail judz@austin.rr.com or call Judith Strassman at 512-215-2574. Click here for a more information & a printable flyer for this retreat.

  • The 2008 calendar of introductory workshops and retreats is now set. Sign up for one!

  • Pray in Community: Our list of local Prayer Groups has been updated for 2008. There are also several contemplative church services around town that we're aware of. Info on these can be found on the Other Events page.

…when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
~ Matthew 6:6

Contemplative Prayer is the opening of mind and heart – our whole being – to God, the Ultimate Mystery, beyond thoughts, words and emotions, whom we know by faith is within us, closer than breathing, thinking, feeling and choosing; even closer than consciousness itself.
~ Fr. Thomas Keating, Open Mind, Open Heart

 

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