About Us

 Contemplative Outreach of San Diego (COSD) is a local chapter of a larger worldwide organism, Contemplative Outreach, Ltd. For over 25 years, Contemplative Outreach has been dedicated to transmitting the living tradition of the contemplative Christian heritage through the teachings of Father Thomas Keating and through programs and offerings that support the contemplative life for those in ordinary life.

Our primary purpose is to teach the method of Centering Prayer and to offer support and spiritual enrichment programs to those who practice Centering Prayer. We also encourage Lectio Divina, the prayerful reading of scripture, particularly its movement into contemplative prayer as facilitated by a regular practice of Centering Prayer.

We offer Centering Prayer workshops, retreats, and formation programs. Our programs are designed to present the richness of the Christian Contemplative Heritage in a contemporary and accessible format.

COSD is served by an ecumenical lay volunteer membership. We are fully supported by the generosity of our membership.

The heart and soul of COSD is the network of Centering Prayer groups who regularly gather to support each other.

Vision Statement
The intent of Contemplative Outreach is to foster the process of transformation in Christ in one another through the practice of Centering Prayer.

Theological Principle #10
We identify with the Christian contemplative heritage in which Centering Prayer is rooted. We recognize this heritage as the common ground for Christian unity.

Administrative Principal #11
We wish to remain accessible to everyone. For this reason, we do not endorse particular causes or take part in public controversies, whether religious, political or social. As private individuals, we act according to our conscience.