Helping People Pray Reflection Journal

Reflection Journal A collection of articles written by Sister Marlene Halpin, O.P., and featured in Catechist magazine and Religion Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journal

“ Every moment of every life is an opportunity to grow in our personal relationship with God.” “ A thriving parish gathers in community to nurture a lived faith for every person.” “ Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

We mentor children to pray without ceasing by cherishing prayer as a deeply important, mutually revealing relationship with God.

Mentoring Children into a Life of Prayer Adults support a child’s prayerful, personal response to God by sharing their own very personal relationship with God and all of his creation. As catechists and teachers, we lead children to a personal relationship with God by helping them understand our Catholic faith and providing opportunities for them to talk about their faith with other children as well as adults. We mentor children to pray without ceasing by praying with them and by cherishing prayer as a deeply important, always present opportunity to grow in relationship with God.

“The desire for God is written in the human heart.” —Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 27)

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Set aside a few minutes today to spend on prayer. As a start, jot down a few things you might tell or ask God.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Do you have expectations when you pray? What are they? What do you expect from God, our Father?

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... What is your favorite way to pray? Where do you usually pray? Do you have a special time set aside for prayer?

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Praying is an act of friendship, of love. What do you talk about with your friends? Try talking about those same things with Jesus, your friend.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... What opportunities to respond to God's love have you seized today? What opportunities to respond to God's love have you missed today?

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... At home, what is the place most inviting for prayer? When teaching children to pray or when praying with them, where do you gather? How can you make that environment more conducive to spending time with God?

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Thank God for his gift of unconditional love.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... God never misunderstands or is shocked by what is said in prayer. Talk with God about something that is bothering you.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Remind the children you teach to spend some time in silence listening to God.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... Real-life stories and storybooks are springboards to prayer. List some books you could use when praying with children.

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... God wills happiness for us. When are you happiest?

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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT... "God is full of surprises for you!" How has God surprised you lately?

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Nurturing your friendship

with God at www.loyolapress.com Loyola Press provides a variety of practical and meaningful online ministry resources. Site features: •O ur Catholic Faith provides articles on a wide variety of Catholic topics, from the saints to the sacraments and beyond. •E ducational Programs gives teachers and catechetical leaders support for our curriculum products.

•O nline Community links to blogs and forums to encourage dialogue about a range of topics on the Catholic faith. • Our Store includes books and other resources that will help you grow in your faith and live a life of love toward God and neighbor.

Online Resources for Your Ministry

3-Minute Retreat www.loyolapress.com/retreat

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a Jesuit Ministry

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We invite you to take advantage of our specialized online resources, including prayer retreats, blogs, intergenerational activities, and more.

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