We get it … it can feel unfamiliar or awkward to participate in an existing spiritual community online. On top of that, contemplative prayer can seem mysterious and difficult. This page is here to help you feel comfortable and supported as you prepare to participate in your first chapel experience.
What’s an online chapel like?
Think of it as a cozy living room where people gather for quiet prayer — except it’s on Zoom, so you can join from wherever you are. We meet at set times each week, led by a chapel host who gently guides the flow. Some chapels are mostly silent (Contemplative), others include a bit more structure or guided practice (Guided).
You don’t have to be on camera if you don’t want to. You don’t need to say anything. You’re simply invited to rest, breathe, listen, and be part of a warm circle of prayer. More details can be found at Join Us.
What Is Contemplative Prayer?
Contemplative prayer is simply being with God — no agenda, no long list of words — just resting in a quiet, open heart. It’s the kind of prayer Jesus pointed to when he said, “Go into your room and close the door” (Mt 6:6), and what the Psalms invite when they say, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). The mystics describe it as living from a deep place of union with the Divine.
At Still Point, our roots are in the Christian contemplative tradition, but our practice is inter-spiritual — we welcome and draw wisdom from many spiritual streams, honoring the unity beneath the diversity. Whether we sit in silence on our own or gather online, it’s not about talking or debating. It’s about making space for holy silence, deep listening, and God’s quiet work in our lives. Check out Our Spiritual Practices page to learn more.
Some First-Time Tips:
- Come as you are — Pajamas, messy hair, morning coffee… you’re welcome just as you are.
- Arrive a few minutes early — This gives you time to settle in, check your audio, and relax before prayer begins.
- Camera on or off — your choice — Many keep cameras on for connection, but you’re welcome to keep yours off if that feels more comfortable.
- There’s no “right way” — Whether you’ve prayed for decades or never tried contemplative prayer before, there’s nothing to get “right.” Just be present.
- You belong here — Even if you say nothing the whole time, your presence matters.
Technical Requirements
To take part in our online chapels, you’ll need a device with internet access — a computer, tablet, or smartphone — and a free Zoom account. A quiet space, headphones, or earbuds can help you feel more present and minimize distractions. Once you register, we’ll email you the Zoom link and a few tips for joining with ease..
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. While our foundation is Christian contemplative tradition and we follow the liturgical seasons of the Church, our community includes seekers from a wide range of spiritual backgrounds. If you’re drawn to silence, sacred reflection, and spiritual depth, you’re in the right place.
You’re always welcome to speak during our periods of sacred sharing, but it’s never required. Many participants find deep connection just by listening
The term was coined by Br. Wayne Teasdale, a Catholic monk and mystic who believed that the deep mystical wisdom found across the world’s religious traditions points to a shared spiritual heart. Rather than blending traditions into one or comparing their doctrines, inter-spirituality invites us to learn from the lived experiences and contemplative practices of others.
Trappist monk Thomas Keating, a founder of the modern Centering Prayer movement, modeled this openness through decades of dialogue with spiritual teachers from other faiths. He believed that in silence and contemplative practice, people of all traditions can meet in “the common language of the heart.” For us, inter-spirituality means staying grounded in Christ while honoring the unity beneath our diverse spiritual expressions.
Absolutely. Visit our Contact page to reach out to a member of our team. We’d be happy to connect.