Prayer

What Is Prayer?

Prayer is lifting the heart and mind to God.

It is not merely saying words. Prayer is a living relationship with the Lord who loves us.

Through prayer, we speak to God, listen to Him, adore Him, thank Him, ask for His help, and grow in friendship with Him.

“Lord, teach us to pray.” — Luke 11:1

Why Prayer Matters

Prayer keeps the soul close to God.

It strengthens faith, increases hope, deepens charity, and helps us follow Jesus Christ.

Without prayer, the Christian life becomes weak. With prayer, the heart learns to trust, love, repent, and persevere.

Different Ways Catholics Pray

Vocal Prayer

Prayer spoken with words, such as the Our Father, Hail Mary, or Glory Be.

Meditation

Prayerful reflection on Scripture, the life of Christ, or the truths of the faith.

Contemplation

Quiet, loving attention to God.

Liturgical Prayer

The public prayer of the Church, especially the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours.

Devotional Prayer

Prayers and devotions that help us grow in love for Christ, such as the Rosary and Adoration.

Jesus Teaches Us to Pray

Jesus prayed often and taught His disciples to pray.

When His disciples asked Him how to pray, He gave them the Lord’s Prayer.

This prayer teaches us to call God Father, seek His will, ask for daily bread, seek forgiveness, and ask for deliverance from evil.

“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” — Matthew 6:9

The Holy Ghost Helps Us Pray

We do not pray by our own strength alone.

The Holy Ghost moves our hearts, teaches us to call upon God, and helps us pray when we do not know what to say.

“The Spirit also helpeth our infirmity.” — Romans 8:26

Explore Prayer

Key Truths About Prayer

• Prayer is a living relationship with God.
• Prayer lifts the heart and mind to God.
• Jesus taught His disciples to pray.
• The Lord’s Prayer is the model of Christian prayer.
• The Holy Ghost helps us pray.
• Prayer includes speaking and listening.
• Catholics pray with Scripture, the Church, and the saints.
• Prayer helps us grow in holiness and friendship with God.

What Does This Mean For Me?

God desires your friendship.

Prayer is how the heart turns toward Him.

You do not need perfect words to begin praying. Speak honestly to God, listen to Him, and return to Him each day.

Prayer is one of the simplest and deepest ways to grow close to Jesus Christ.

Continue Learning

Now that you understand the big picture of prayer, the next question is: What is prayer?

Learn how prayer forms the soul and draws us into deeper communion with God.