prayer

what is prayer?

prayer is communication with god and can be formal or informal

how does the CCC define prayer?

prayer is ‘the raising of one’s mind and heart to God’

in what ways can prayer be carried out?

prayer can be private or public, silent or spoken, alone or with others, and can be active (speaking to god) or receptive (listening to god)

what is repentance prayer?

acknowledging sins and asking for forgiveness

what is thanksgiving prayer?

expressing love and gratitude to God

what is adoration prayer

praising god for simply being god

what is petition prayer?

asking god for personal needs

what is intercession prayer?

praying on behalf of others

what is formal prayer?

prayer that follows a formula, using words from the Church’s tradition

why do catholics use formal prayer?

it connects them to the history of the church and unites them with other catholics

what is extempore prayer?

informal prayer that uses ones own words without planning

why do catholics use extempore prayer?

it is used in momemnts of great need and helps develop a personal relationship with god

why is it important to have different types of prayer?

• different stages of life

• different needs and moments

• different locations

• different moods or feelings

what key principles does jesus teach about prayer in matthew 6?

1. prayer is not for show

2. it should not use empty words

3. it should be heartfelt and sincere

4. it should seek a deeper relationship with god

why is the lord’s prayer important to catholics?

the CCC calls it ‘the most perfect of prayers’

what does the Lord’s prayer remind catholics to do?

1. honour god

2. ask for daily needs

3. repent and forgive others

how does the lord’s prayer unite christians?

it is a universal prayer that expresses key christian beliefs and is said by all christians