Did you know there are five forms of prayer? Each form has a unique purpose that fulfills the function of prayer, which is to “[raise] one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God” (CCC, 2559). Here’s a quick look at each form:
· Blessing and Adoration - Blessing is the acknowledgement and acceptance of God’s many gifts that He blesses us with. God does not need our blessings, but what we offer him in our prayer is “truly right and just” because of who He is. Adoration humbly acknowledges that God is our creator and we are his creatures. · Petition - Probably the most common form of prayer, Petition is asking God for the things we need. Asking God for the winning lottery ticket is fine, but keep a couple things in mind. Prayers of petition should start from a position of seeking forgiveness, which is a “prerequisite for righteous and pure prayer” (CCC, 2631). You should also accept God’s will in all your requests, even if you never win the lottery. ·Intercession - Like petition, intercession is a request to God, but we do so on behalf of others like Christ does for all humanity. We should pray for the good of our family, friends, and even, perhaps especially, of our enemies. · Thanksgiving - While we may petition God with our requests often, do we remember to thank Him for his many blessings? Prayers of thanksgiving are a way to pray constantly as we go about our daily lives. ·Praise - In prayers of praise, we recognize who God is and we give Him glory, not because of what He does, but simply because of who He is (CCC, 2639). The Psalms are an example of prayers of praise. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the highest prayer in the Church. All five forms of prayer are present. Next time you’re at Mass, can you recognize each form? I bet now you can! - Written by parishioner, Rick Frantz