In the early Church, many believers would have been illiterate, and even many of those who could read didn't have access to bibles. Because of this, much of the early Church history is characterized by what is known as lectio divina (or devotional reading). Lectio divina requires learning through means other than reading written words, much like how we understand what wind is because we feel it, or how we begin to comprehend snow by building snowmen and throwing snowballs. The process of Lectio divina made a way to hear the Word read in church and apply it to their lives through five movements:
1. Silencio - Simple slow down and become quiet and calm; prepared to hear the Word of God
2. Lectio - This involved the actual reading of the scripture. Read slowly and loudly letting the words
resonate in your heart, and if something happens to catch your attention, stop and ask God for
what he wants to reveal.
3. Mediatio - Simply, meditate. While reading the scripture a second time, savor the words. Reflect on the
importance of what sticks out to you.
4. Oratio - Respond through praying to God. Enter into a personal dialogue with God after reading a third
time. Talk with God about any feelings that arise from this passage.
5. Contemplatio - Contemplate and rest. Allow God to begin working on you in whatever he has shown
through this passage.
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