From information to transformation -- sacred reading is an ancient practice that can help us navigate the modern world. In this podcast, Lory Widmer Hess, an author, spiritual director, caregiver, and lifelong seeker of wholeness, explores reading as a contemplative doorway to deeper levels of peace, insight, and connectedness. Whatever your spiritual tradition or practice, or even if you have none, you are invited to join in the practice and make it your own. Learn more at sacredreading.org
In the seventh and last episode of the first season of the Sacred Reading Podcast, we’re exploring the movement of “resting” or silent contemplation. This can be extremely challenging in our restless world, but don’t despair! There are many ways to access a space of peace and calm, if you’re willing to have a bit of patience. I’m happy to share some of the practices that have helped me, and welcome your ideas and experiences as well. Please join the community at sacredreading.org.
10 Dec 2025
The Third Movement: Responding
The third movement or step of Sacred Reading is responding, entering into conversation with the divine out of what has arisen within you through reading and reflection. In this episode, I share thoughts about that invitation to express ourselves, with some opportunities for practice in different ways.
Visit sacredreading.org for more information and to connect to the Sacred Reading community.
5 Nov 2025
The Second Movement: Reflecting
Enter the realm of meaning through consciously reflecting on a text. In this episode, I share a few ways to approach the process of reflection, giving you a chance to slow down and access different parts of yourself.
Visit sacredreading.org for more information and to connect to the Sacred Reading community.
13 Oct 2025
The First Movement: Reading
In this episode, we explore the first step or movement of the Sacred Reading practice: reading itself.
Please visit sacredreading.org to learn about free online meetings you can join, to practice with me and others, as well as other resources.
21 Sept 2025
Basic Practice - Secular Text
This episode goes once more through the Sacred Reading practice, a simple sequence you can use on your own or in a group. The text this time is a poem by Walt Whitman, A Noiseless Patient Spider.
Please visit sacredreading.org to learn about free online meetings you can join, to practice with me and others. I am also preparing a Substack newsletter that will share resources and inspiration on a regular basis, as well as to host seasonal study groups on special themes. I hope you'll join us!
7 Sept 2025
Basic Practice - Scriptural text
In this episode, I share a simple sequence you can use as a Sacred Reading practice on your own or in a group. The text I've chosen is the first Psalm from the Christian and Jewish scriptures, one of the great Wisdom documents of the world. If you would prefer a secular, non-religious text, I will offer that in the next episode in two weeks.
Please visit sacredreading.org (http://sacredreading.org)for information about free online meetings you can join, to practice with me and others.
27 Aug 2025
What Is Sacred Reading?
What is the practice of sacred reading? This episode offers a brief overview of the origins and form of the practice, which is rooted in the monastic tradition of lectio divina. The four movements or steps of the practice are described: read, reflect, respond, and rest, and some suggestions and resources for further exploration are given.
For free online meetings exploring sacred reading with others, guided by Lory Widmer Hess, visit sacredreading.org.
26 Aug 2025
Sacred Reading Trailer
Introducing the new podcast, Sacred Reading.
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