As Christians, we believe prayer is an important practice in our spiritual lives. But knowing how to pray is a skill we must learn. Dr. Brian Russell is a professor of theology and spiritual coach and he's written a book about the practice of centering prayer as a pathway to grow deeper in our prayer lives. In this episode, Ben and Brian talk about the role of prayer, how to pray in different, more contemplative ways, and how this practice can shape us in deep ways as people of faith.    Brian Russell (Ph.D.) is a professor of biblical studies and a transformational coach for pastors and spiritually-minded professionals. His personal mission is to seek out, study, and embody the deepest truths about God so that he can share them compellingly, lovingly, and transformationally with others. He is passionate about helping people just like you to grow in your love for God and neighbor.   He is the author of Invitation: A Bible Study to Begin With (Seedbed 2014), (re)Aligning with God: Reading Scripture for Church and World (Cascade 2015); and his latest Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life (Paraclete Press, 2021). He is also host of the Deep Dive Spirituality Conversations podcast. Contact: brian@brianrussellphd.comTwitter: @briandrussellInstagram: @yourprofessorforlifeSign up for updates about centering prayer and invitations to Virtual Centering prayer gatherings co-hosted by Brian: www.centeringprayerbook.com