IT is easy to let prayer slip. I know, as a priest, with an obligation to the daily prayer of the Church (Breviary), that an activity or appointment becomes an excuse for missing an hour. I am better with meditation but that too can become an hour of distraction. Having the daily prayer on the iPhone or iPad has helped because it replaces the book but still I occasionally lapse.
We are a chatty and gregarious community at St Bridget’s. That was one of the first things that I noticed when I was appointed. But it means that less time is available before and after Mass for prayer, as we catch up with each other and enjoy the latest news. The question then is when do we find time for personal prayer?
Our homes are either busy with family or solitary when we find ourselves alone. Both situations can preoccupy us and trap us in our own thoughts with little time or inclination to prayer. However, I do not understand how we can have a relationship with Jesus Christ without time for serious prayer.
It is fashionable to promote forms of prayer and that is helpful. Meditation, mindfulness and Yoga etc. However, a method does not replace the Christian practice of a silent focus on Jesus and attentiveness to the Spirit as the gift to the Christian.
I could write at some length on this subject of prayer – outlining the blessings and pitfalls – but perhaps it is up to each individual to find their own way.
The coming Reflection Day, being organised by the Parish Pastoral Council, is a good opportunity to spend some time together and at prayer.
Meanwhile, I highly recommend that families do not slide in this matter of prayer. Grace before a meal – not a TV dinner – should be a feature of the family; a crucifix on the wall or mantle and even some time praying together. Most Catholic kids still know their prayers so even formal prayer can be a start.
I hope that many people will attend the Reflection Day and I pray that some young people will come.
FATHER DENNIS ROCHFORD MSC: I regret that I will be absent from the parish from Monday September 26 until Tuesday October 4 attending the Provincial Chapter of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. This means one weekend, October 01-02, a Supply priest will celebrate Masses that weekend. I will try and make an arrangement for weekday Masses and inform the parish. Please pray for the deliberations of the Chapter. Like all Religious communities we are struggling with an ageing group and many fewer numbers while our pastoral work is slow to adjust to the new reality.