Forms of Prayer

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states everyone is called to live a, "vital and personal relationship with the living and true God. This relationship is prayer," (CCC 2558).

Prayer of Blessing and Adoration (praising God)

In praying of blessings and adoration we are praising and honoring God for all that we have done. We acknowledge our dependence on Him in all things. Adoration in front of the Blessed Sacrament is a great way to display this form of prayer in which we just sit in the silence and listen and worship God. Acknowledge the wonder and beauty of our world, the blessings of life, and the love you have for God. 

Prayer of Petition

The prayer of petition is one most people are familiar with. We are taught to bring our worries and problems to God, asking for what is good for ourselves and others, while also knowing our prayers will be answered according to God's will. God may answer our prayers in a different way, but he knows our needs and will give it to us in his perfect timing. When we prayer our petitions we are asking God for something we believe is good, it can be ordinary experiences in life such as praying for help on a test, for safe travels, for someone who is sick, etc. Prayers of petition remind us to pray for our own physical and spiritual needs, as well as the needs of others. 

Prayer of Intercession

In prayer of Intercessoin we are praying for others. Rather than being concerned for our own needs we are praying for the needs of others. Our prayers may be aimed for the blessings or healings of others spiritual or physical needs, as well as prayers for the Church and our world. We may also prayer for the intercession of Our Lady and the saints to bring us strength, courage, and to bring us closer to God through their intercession in our lives. As with the saints, we ask Mary to pray for us to her son and to the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Taking the time to recognize the many blessings in your life can help us better appreaciate all the good things God gives us and the many ways he is present in our lives.  Reserve time to give thanks to God for the many gifts you have received- the gift of life, family, friends, food, etc. The word "Eucharist" is derived from the Greek word "eucharistein," meaning thanksgiving. As Catholics, we are able to receive the gift of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and give thanks to God for that blessing. A prayer of thankgiving and receiving the Eucharits helps us form a true spirit of gratitude. 

Here's a LINK to some basic prayers that can help guide your time in prayer!