This book is a lovely compendium of centuries of Catholic tradition in the form of prayer. The book starts off with an introduction to prayer, why we pray, why we should pray, how prayer is found in both the Old and New Testaments and how we can overcome difficulties to prayer. The book ends with a brief "manual" of ways to pray; whether it be praying at a certain time of day, reflective prayer while studying an aspect of life (be it physical or spiritual), different types of prayer (thanksgiving, intercession, contritiion, etc etc). Between these two chapters are 250 prayers that are steeped in Catholic tradition. Prayers range from everyday prayers known to every Catholic (Our Father, Glory Be, Hail Mary, Apostles Creed), to prayers to Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, prayers to Mary and the Saints and prayers for specific intentions (for the sick, confessional, before/during/after the Mass). There are a number of devotionals and litanies in the book which I found especially spiritual, as well as some of the more well-known chaplets (prayers using rosary-beads as a structure for the prayer) and novenas. Overall, this is one of the most complete books I've ever read on the topic of prayer. It was well worth the ... I paid for it, and I've spiritually recouped my expense with the first week of use of this book. For someone who relies on structured prayer, this book will be invaluable and will offer some nice tips and guides to help nurture your prayer life. I would (and do) highly recommend this book for anyone who wishes to deepen their prayer life. I think this book would also make a great gift.
From Amazon.com
This is a wonderful summarized book of Catholic Prayers. The author has attempted to really include biblical quotes, as well as quotes from Saints and Doctors of the Church. The author uses a wonderful use of ideas on how to pray, and different ways to pray, while stating that it is the reader's preference of prayer that is best. The chapters discuss the following: Basic Prayers, Morning Prayers, Daily Prayers, Evening Prayers, Prayers Before Mass, the Order of Mass, Prayers Before Communion, After Communion, After Mass, Before Confession, After Confession, to Jesus Christ Crucified, to the Sacred Heart, to the Holy Name, to the Child Jesus, for Divine Mercy, to the Holy Eucharist, to the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Trinity, Prayers to the Mary, Saints Prayers to Mary, Prayers to Mary Under Special Titles, Devotions, Prayers for Personal Needs, for Particular Groups, for Holidays, Prayers for the Sick, Dying, and Deceased, Prayers for Saintly Intercession, to the Holy Angels, for Friends and Family, for Special Intentions, and lastly the brief manual of ways to pray. I highly recommend this book!
From Amazon.com
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