A uniquely Christian tradition for experiencing God directly through meditation is vividly brought to life on The Beginner's Guide to Contemplative Prayer. James Finley, who lived and prayed with Thomas Merton for six years, shares the fruit of this authentic approach to prayer and its role at the center of Christian life. Beginning with a look at how the forms of prayer differ, and concluding with step-by-step instructions for getting started with a contemplative prayer practice of your own, here is a welcome guide to the fundamental meditations and teachings of this cherished tradition.