How do we pray?
To pray is to turn to God with confidence, just as we are. There is no need for complicated words. We can thank him, praise him, and entrust to him our joys, sorrows, questions, and fears, as well as all the people we carry in our hearts.
A simple way to begin
- Choose a time and place conducive to quiet and silence.
- Make the Sign of the Cross and remind yourself that God is present and welcomes you.
- Thank God for graces received, people met, or the events of the day.
- Entrust your joys, difficulties, and concerns to him, and ask for the light and strength of the Holy Spirit.
- Conclude with a prayer of the Church, such as the Our Father, the Hail Mary, or the Glory Be, or simply remain in silence for a few moments.
A simple prayer
Thank you for this day, for the people you place on my path, and for all the graces you give me.
You know my heart. Enlighten me with your Spirit, strengthen me in times of difficulty, and teach me to love as you love us.
Amen.
Distraction does not mean that prayer has failed. When your attention wanders, simply and gently return to God. Faithfulness often matters more than the feelings one experiences.