565. Who can educate us in prayer? (part 1)
(Comp 565) The Christian family is the
first place of education in prayer. Daily family prayer is particularly
recommended because it is the first witness to the life of prayer in the
Church. Catechesis, prayer groups, and “spiritual direction” constitute a
school of and a help to prayer.
“In brief”
(CCC 2694) The Christian family is the first place for
education in prayer. (CCC 2695) Ordained ministers, the consecrated life,
catechesis, prayer groups, and "spiritual direction" ensure
assistance within the Church in the practice of prayer.
To deepen and explain
(CCC 2685) The Christian
family is the first place of education in prayer. Based on the sacrament of
marriage, the family is the "domestic church" where God's children
learn to pray "as the Church" and to persevere in prayer. For young
children in particular, daily family prayer is the first witness of the
Church's living memory as awakened patiently by the Holy Spirit. (CCC 2686) Ordained ministers are also responsible
for the formation in prayer of their brothers and sisters in Christ. Servants
of the Good Shepherd, they are ordained to lead the People of God to the living
waters of prayer: the Word of God, the liturgy, the theologal life (the life of
faith, hope, and charity), and the Today of God in concrete situations (Cf. PO
4-6).
Reflection
(CCC 2687) Many religious
have consecrated their whole lives to prayer. Hermits, monks, and nuns since
the time of the desert fathers have devoted their time to praising God and
interceding for his people. The consecrated life cannot be sustained or spread
without prayer; it is one of the living sources of contemplation and the
spiritual life of the Church. [IT CONTINUES]
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