Sunday, April 14, 2013

Prayer in Catholicism

Prayer is a very significant part of Catholicism. There are many different forms of prayer, and many different prayers to pray. There are two main forms: a more direct following of a set prayer and a lenient style of prayer where the individual chooses what to pray about. Personally, I find both of these forms of prayer to be valuable, but when I am alone I like being able to talk to God. Consequently, when I pray at home, I almost always pray by simply communicating to God and asking for his help.

One major benefit of prayer is the gift of fortitude and guidance. I like being able to pray to God to ask for help for both myself, and others as well. During times of struggle prayer can be one of the only and most lasting formulas for happiness. Whenever a loved one dies, everyone is affected by it in their own way. I tried getting over my grief in many different ways, but none of them produced the lasting resulted that I desired. Finally, I decided to turn to God to help with my problems. God not only provided a true method of consolation, but I was also filled with the strength to continue on.

Lastly, the Church teaches that without prayer, we cannot fully have a relationship with God. Everyone desires to know the existence of a higher being in life. However, that desire takes many people into Catholicism, and once one has found true happiness, it is hard to lose that feeling. Therefore, if one wants to continue to feel the warmth that God can provide for us, we will do almost anything to sustain that magical feeling. The biggest way to partake in that feeling, just as it is with any other relationship, is communication. That strong form of communication is simply prayer.
-Timmy Mashinski

No comments:

Post a Comment