Lesson 21: On Prayer

1. What is prayer?

An elevation of the soul to God, to adore him, to bless his holy name, to praise his goodness, and to return him thanks for his benefits.

2. Is prayer anything else?

It is an humble petition to God for all necessaries, for soul and body.

3. When should we pray?

Christ himself says, We ought always to pray. Luke, xviii. 1.

4. How can we always pray

By offering to God all our thoughts, words, smd actions; by keeping ourselves in the state of grase; and by praying at certain times.

5. At what particular time should we pray?

On Sunday s and holy-days; every morning Ui& » /try Qight; and in all dangers, temptations, and affliction,,*

6. After what manner should we pray?

'With all possible attention and devotion; an< m a respectful posture on bended knees.

7. What conditions are necessary to render our prayers acceptable?

We must always ©ffer them with an humbie and contrite heart; with fervour and perseveranee, with confidence in God's goodness; with resignation to his will, and in the name of Jesus Christ.

8. What do you say of those, who, at their prayers, think not of God, nor of what they say?

If their distractions be wilful, their prayers, instead of pleasing God, offend him. St. James, i. G.

9. What prayers are most recommended to us?

The Lord's prayer, the Hail Mary, the Apostle'screed, and the Confiteor, or General Confession.

10. Does the church also recommend the Acts of Faith, Hope, and Charity?

Yes; most earnestly: they are an excellent form of Prayer, and remind us of our chief duties to God.

11. What are our chief duties to God?

To believe in him, to hope in him, and to love him.

12. Why do you make an act of Contrition before live acts of Faith, Hope and Charity 1

To obtain pardon of my sins: .and thereby to render my prayers more acceptable to God, and moie beneficial to myself.