MAGI Prayer Group The concept of the Magi prayer group was developed out of a desire for a catholic

group that would foster well-rounded faith and service formation in the individual members. Unlike a bible study or rosary group, a Magi prayer group is designed to incorporate many elements of spiritual formation into one. The various elements can be summed up in words that begin with the letters MAGI, as follows: Ministry Adoration Giving Illumination Each of these elements was incorporated in some way into the visit of the Magi to Bethlehem, and they are therefore the model and patrons of such a group. In the first place, the Magi did not seek out Jesus individually but as a team together. They shared their pilgrimage, their hardships, and were together for mutual encouragement and protection. In the same way, magi prayer members are called to see themselves as fellow pilgrims and journeyers seeking the Lord together in life and to its end. So in this way they minister to one another. Secondly, the Magi worshiped the Babe and did him homage. In the same way, group members are called to spend part of the time in some liturgical form of adoration together. Thirdly, the magi presented gifts to the Lord. In the same way members spend time together recognizing the gifts they have to give to the Lord and to others in their lives and being mindful of the needs of those around them. Finally, the Magi, or wise men, as the word is translated, applied themselves to study and the pursuit of wisdom, which is how they were able to recognize the coming of the Messiah in time. Magi group members are likewise encouraged to spend time together in the pursuit of wisdom and the understanding of

Scripture and Church teaching. This need not be an arduous matter to organize. It is recommended that, if possible, four meetings a month be the rule and one meeting per month be dedicated to each of the four activities. The week for adoration would simply involve time of prayer, but as much as possible the format should be a composite of the wishes and inclinations of each member. Members can bring individual prayers to share, scripture readings or even songs or musical instruments as long as the catholic nature of the group is not violated thereby. The weeks for Ministry, Giving and Illumination would likely be spent in a discussion format, although ministry can include prayer for physical healing, inner healing and spiritual deliverance. Since the Magi were peers with one another, it would be ideal for group members to also be peers, with as little a presence of leadership as necessary for the goals of the group to be safeguarded. Each member has gifts, wisdom and the capacity to pray and be heard by Him who knows what we need before we ask. The symbol of the Magi prayer group is a four pointed star (e.g. Star of Bethlehem) with the four letters M-A-G-I arranged at the four points with the letter A at the topmost point (upward to God), I at the bottom point (digging deep to seek wisdom) and the M and the G reaching horizontally to others.