Sometimes prayer can be somewhat of a challenge. Besides the ever present struggle of finding time for prayer, we may not know what words to say. Or we may find it hard to not become distracted. Even when everything is going well, after some time, prayer may feel dry and rote. When any of these things happen, it’s important to know that they’re normal experiences that may happen in one’s prayer life. They are not signs of a lax spirituality, or a lack of faith. In my own life, I’ve often had these experiences.

Prayer is the “language” we use to communicate with God. Through our prayers we are able to share with God our gratitude, as well as our concerns. Good communication skills are important in marriage, and other significant human relationships. We do best when we are honest and intentional with our words, as well as when we listen with empathetic hearts. Communication with God requires nothing less. Successful communication in human as well as divine relationships require constant work to ensure our conversations allow space for vulnerability and affirmation.

It is not uncommon then that the way spouses communicate with each other may change as their relationship develops over time. Once again, communication with God is not different. If we find it hard to find the words in prayer, or the prayer may become perfunctory, then it might be good to change the way we communicate with God. The Church offers a rich 2,000 year old spiritual treasure of various “languages” we can use when speaking with God. Sadly, most of us limit ourselves to a few of those “languages,” often times the very first ones we learned in our youth.

Prayer, along with fasting and almsgiving is one of the disciplines of Lent. But, this does not necessarily mean that we should pray more during lent. It may be wiser though to pray better, instead of simply praying more. If you find your prayer life is lacking, why not learn a new language to speak with God this lenten season?

During the season of lent there are two languages, or prayers we can learn and incorporate into our spiritual exercises. The first is Stations of the Cross (also called The Way of the Cross). Typically, this is a Friday devotion where believers gather to reflect on the passion and death of Jesus Christ. There are many ways to pray the Stations, but they usually include prayers, scriptural passages, and music. Most importantly, believers walk around the church to each of the 14 stations, which mark a moment in Jesus’ passion. If you’ve ever wondered about the beautiful paintings with the roman numerals that ring our church, now you know what they’re for! The Stations are prayed at Saint Andrew at 6:30 PM in the church. The remaining Fridays of Lent in which Stations will be prayed at Saint Andrew are March 28, April 4, and April 11. While this type of prayer traditionally happens during lent. There’s no reason though why it can’t be prayed outside of lent, or even outside of church.

The second new language we’re offering at Saint Andrew is Taizé Prayer. This ecumenically based prayer which was founded in Taizé, France is composed mostly of music and art. The music is very simple in nature, and is sung in canon. This repetition is a helpful form of meditation. The art, which is prominently displayed during the prayer service is typically icons, an artistic tradition from the East. Here too, directing our gaze and focusing on a particular image can help facilitate one’s meditation. Another essential element is silence. Interspersed throughout the prayer service are extended periods of silence which allow for further meditation. It’s important to note that given the quiet and reflective nature of this type of prayer, it is not really suited for very young children. Last year we introduced this type of prayer at Saint Andrew during advent and Easter. Everyone who participated gave positive reviews. We will be offering Taizé Prayer this Wednesday, March 26th at 7:00 PM in the church. The service is usually limited to 30-45 minutes. If you’re interested in learning this new language, why not join us?

Of late, apps for learning new languages have become very popular, and they have made learning new languages easier and fun. This lent, why not pick up a new “language” with which to speak with God? It can only help. No app is necessary!

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Bulldog Buddies

Our Bulldog Buddies spring session begins on April 1.  Bulldog Buddies is a class for students who turn two years old by September 1, 2024.  Our teachers and curriculum offer children the opportunity to experience our school setting in a safe, nurturing environment along with their caregivers. Bulldog Buddies Registration