Prayer is an absolute must for all of us. It maintains the relationship we have with the Lord. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes it as “the raising of one’s mind and heart to God” while humility is its foundation. We often think of prayer as our search for God in our lives but ironically it is God who thirsts for us. He desires that relationship with us which is nourished by prayer.

We just completed a FORMED program throughout Lent entitled "Into the Dessert: Finding Intimacy With God." The program is an introduction to Lectio Divina (Divine Reading), a traditional Catholic approach to prayer. Dr. Tim Gray of the Augustine Institute is our guide for the program. He explains the traditional stages of Lectio Divina:

1. LECTIO ~ A reading of a selection from the Bible
2. MEDITATIO ~ Seriously studying or considering the meaning of what we have read.
3. ORATIO ~ Conversation with God or prayer.
4. CONTEMPLATIO ~ God speaks to us.
5. RESOLUTIO ~ Living what we pray or putting love into action.

The program is found in FORMED.org.  Go to https://sttmformation.org/lent-2019 or go directed to FORMED.   If you're not signed up yet, it's easy and free for parishioners!

 

1. Go to stthomasmore.formed.org 
2. Click "Register"
3. Enter your name, email address, and desired password

Now you are all set to use the great study programs on FORMED.org anytime by simply logging in!! Since Lent is now over it will take some hunting on the sight to locate "Into the Desert." 

Developing good habits of prayer is essential to our way of life as followers of the Lord.