Ancient Prayers Nurture the Soul
Sharing the season of Lent 2022 with you has made it more special for me. I hope you have enjoyed the journey through this sacred season.
As I’ve mentioned in the two previous Lent posts, the three pillars of Lent are Fasting, Prayer, and Almsgiving.
Today, I will focus on prayer.
During the past few years, I have discovered the richness of different methods of prayer. In the earlier years of my faith journey, I was not introduced to the practice of reciting written prayers. In fact, I was discouraged from using what was often referred to as “rote prayers.” Even though I memorized the Lord’s Prayer as a child, it was seldom recited in churches I attended.
These days, many of these prayers have resonated deeply with my soul and are now staples of my prayer life. The Lord’s Prayer, or “Our Father” is one I pray daily—sometimes often during the day. Especially, if I’m feeling kind of “dry” in my spirit, this prayer always seems to lead me back to what really matters in God’s kingdom.
This photo was taken at the University of San Diego, a private Catholic university. The campus has been called the most beautiful college campus in the United States. It was truly spectacular.
This Morning Prayer of St. Francis is one of my favorite prayers to begin the day.
From our hotel room in Honolulu, Hawaii - sunrise over Waikiki Beach.
I have found bedtime is a difficult time for me to pray meaningfully. I’m not a “night person.” My body is tired, and my brain turns “mushy.” Compline prayers have become a lovely bedtime practice. Reading beautifully crafted, ancient prayers quiets my soul. I love these words of St. Augustine’s nighttime prayer.
South African sunsets are magnificent!
Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and give Your angels and saints charge over those who sleep.
Tend Your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest Your weary ones.
Bless Your dying ones.
Soothe Your suffering ones.
Pity Your afflicted ones. Shield Your joyous ones, and all for Your love’s sake.
Amen. (St. Augustine of Hippo 354-430)
Blessings on your journey of prayer,
