Principles and Practices - July 11

Try a Little More

Despite the nature of prayer, that it is sweet converse with God; despite its necessity, that it is to our souls as the very air is to our bodies; and despite Christ's exhortations and injunctions and example, is it not strange that prayer plays so small a part in our lives?

The ordinary Catholic who considers himself a pretty good sort of a fellow - I wonder how often his thoughts turn to God during the day, how much time he gives to God out of his day. One hour out of twenty-four? I doubt it. Half an hour? I doubt it too, unless for some few who make it a point to attend Holy Mass on weekdays.

Yet nothing is simpler. And, far from interfering with our work, it would certainly improve it.

-Lonergan, S.J.
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From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930