What is prayer?
To pray is to place ourselves in God’s presence. It is opening our
hearts to God in communication.
Prayer can be expressed in different ways
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speech (formal prayers such as celebration of the Eucharist,
Liturgy of the Hours, rosary, prayer before meals)
-
silence (meditation, centering prayer)
Prayer overflows into our actions (ministry, service, charitable works).
Why pray?
We pray to know and love God more deeply and, through that knowledge, to
better know and love ourselves and others. The best way to get to know
someone is
to spend time with the person. Prayer is a lifetime process requiring
openness and
hope.
How can you deepen your prayer?
1. Pray on a regular basis.
2. Seek out a convenient place of solitude.
-
While it is true that you can pray anywhere, make a quiet place for
times of deep listening to God.
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Try to minimize noise and distractions during your prayer times.
Write down distracting thoughts that seem important and set them
aside until after prayer. A persistent distraction may be God's way of
getting
you to look at something
that needs attention.
-
Find a comfortable posture for prayer that will facilitate meditation.
3. Vary your approach to prayer.
Some forms of prayer include:
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Liturgy and the sacraments
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Reading Scripture
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Praying the rosary
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Reading books on the spiritual life
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Meditation
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Centering prayer
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Journaling
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Other expressions of prayer, such as dancing, singing and drawing.
4. Include everyday life in your prayer.
Reflect on what you've seen and heard during the day.
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What are the deeper messages?
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How do they relate to God's presence and gifts?
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What is your reaction to God’s message?
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Does God's message indicate that a change is needed in your life?
5. Use praise and gratitude as well as petition in your prayer.
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In the morning, offer your day to God, grateful for the gift of another
day, and ask for help in fulfilling God’s purpose for your
life.
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Consider the needs of others and the world in your prayer.
-
Ask to see yourself and others from God’s perspective—through
eyes of love.
-
At the end of the day, reflect on the events, people, and gifts
you have experienced, giving thanks to God and asking for forgiveness
when needed.
6. Sharing your spiritual journey can be a significant
aid to growth in your prayer life.
Find a good
spiritual director.
Religious communities and retreat
centers are often good resources,
and can help you find a wise companion
for your spiritual
journey.
