The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines prayer as “the raising of one’s mind and heart to God". Prayer is one’s way of communicating with God. It is a means for intimate conversation with the Almighty. Filipino Catholics pray to God on every occasion and moment of their life. According to the Catechism for Filipino Catholics, each prayer can be in the form or mingling of adoration, thanksgiving, petition, contrition, and offering. However, prayer becomes frequent and intense during the time of tribulations. The Lord’s invitation to pray unceasingly and with the patience of faith seems easy for those whose petition is attainable. However, prayer is different for those in a state of pain, illness, and suffering and whose petitions are almost impossible. This research paper aims to renew one’s understanding of the meaning of a Christian prayer. Specifically, using the qualitative method in a theological reflection, this research paper attempts to articulate the “Lord’s Prayer” as a model prayer and look at the relevance of prayer for those who are in pain, illness, or suffering. The article concludes by offering reflections on how Catholics appreciate the positive meaning of Christian prayer – supposed to be liberating (not enslaving), with faith and full of hope (not exasperating), and leading to physical healing and spiritual salvation.

Authors:
Joselito Gutierrez, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Joselito G. Gutierrez, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Institute of Religion, University of Santo Tomas, Manila. He is also a Research Associate in the UST Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics. His research interests include fatherhood, parenting, gerontology, pastoral theology, marriage and family, among others. Currently, he is working on a research paper with a title On the Dignity of the Older Person.

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joselito-Gutierrez

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