Pope Francis is reminding all of us of the necessity of prayer!
What does the Catechism say about prayer?
Take a look at Part Four, Christian Prayer. In this episode, I refer to Catechism of the Catholic Church #s 2558-2565
“For me, prayer is a surge of the heart;
it is a simple look turned toward heaven,
it is a cry of recognition and of love,
embracing both trial and joy.” St. Therese of Lisieux“Prayer is the raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God.” St. John Damascene
2024 is a Year of Prayer
Some important points from the press conference:
- We are asked to intensify prayer, renew and rebuild our spiritual practices
- prayer is nourishment for the Christian life of faith, hope, and charity
- the Church and people of God are to become a concrete sign of hope
- let’s get back to basics
How will you incorporate more prayer as Pope Francis suggests into your life?
I find that it is necessary to =make it a habit. First thing in the morning or right before bed. Every time we take a long car ride we pray a rosary. I listen to podcasts about prayer and theology and how others live out their faith. It’s important to pray without ceasing, as you go about your day. Ask for the graces you need to do certain tasks. Involve God in all you do and ask him to be with you as you go about your day. Then you will have small prayers on your heart all the time.
Look at your week and focus on a different type of prayer each day:
Sunday: Mass; Monday: silence; Tuesday: petition Wednesday: rosary; Thursday: thanksgiving; Friday: scripture; Saturday: Confession and contrition
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I know that we may be aware of the 4 most common Eucharistic Prayers, but on occasion I hear the priest say they are using a different one. I think I read that there are at least 10. I would like to know them, to read and spend time on them. If you know them or know how I can get copies of them, I would appreciate it. I remember doing that as a practice in the convent so I know there is a hidden value in that. I know one is on Reconciliation.
There are definitly more than the 4 Eucharistic Prayers usually used at Mass. I kow there are some for children, and then for other specific purposes. I looked around online and didn’t find much. I’ll ask at church and let you know.