Author: olacatholic416

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The Catechism in a Year – Day 347 – Contemplative Prayer

In contemplative prayer, we seek Jesus. As St. Teresa of Avila put it, contemplative prayer “is nothing else than a close sharing between friends.” The Catechism tells us this form of prayer is a gift, a covenant, and a communion. Further, it is a silent gaze “fixed on Jesus.” In this episode, Fr. Mike helps us better understand this intimate form of prayer. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2709-2724.

Click on link: https://youtu.be/AKLixSUvA7k?si=bkAxujUeI3NazF-4

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The Catechism in a Year – Day 346 – Meditation and Vocal Prayer

Because man is both body and spirit, our prayers can be vocal and meditative. We learn that vocal prayer expresses the movements of our hearts and minds, enabling us to pray with the fullness of our being. Another form of prayer is meditation, which the Catechism tells us is “above all a quest.” In meditation, we employ our thoughts, imagination, and emotions to deepen our union with Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2700-2708.

Click on link: https://youtu.be/UtjNh0p43sw?si=eQ6wkAL1PSYFbwrX

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The Catechism in a Year – Day 345 – Animated by Prayer

We know we can pray anywhere at any time, yet certain places are more favorable for prayer. There are also certain rhythms of prayer in the life of the Church that foster regular attention to the Lord. As Fr. Mike emphasizes with the Catechism, we can’t pray always “if we don’t pray at specific times.” Today Fr. Mike encourages us to find our place and time for prayer. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2691-2699.

Click on link: https://youtu.be/TjudU3-84vA?si=I9Pj-W9RgpaTG4UQ

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The Catechism in a Year – Day 344 – Guides for Prayer

We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.

Click on link: https://youtu.be/LC_EfHn25Y8?si=0qQ6-2yAbbPV5dfc