Reflecting on the Pillars of Lent: Prayer
Prayer is a primary pillar of Lent, serving as a 40-day, intentional, and conversational journey to deepen one’s relationship with God. It fosters spiritual reflection, repentance, and renewal, and serves as the foundation for fasting and almsgiving by strengthening the believer’s connection to Him. Prayer is a two-way relationship that involves both listening and speaking. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains, “This mystery of faith, then, requires that the faithful believe in it, that they celebrate it, and that they live from it in a vital and personal relationship with the living and true God. This relationship is prayer” (CCC 2558).
During Lent, we are called to pray as a way to connect with God and reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice. Through consistent dialogue with Him, prayer helps us become attuned to God’s voice, seek forgiveness and receive His mercy, renew our commitment to faith, and align our lives with His divine will. Through prayer, we find comfort, hope, and strength in knowing that God is with us throughout our 40-day Lenten journey and beyond.
This season also reminds us that God desires reconciliation—with Him and with one another. He calls us to let go of anger, bitterness, and resentment that can harm our souls. If we truly seek God’s love and mercy, we must humble ourselves, ask for His forgiveness, and work to build life-giving relationships with those around us.
The Purpose of Lenten Prayer
Prayer during Lent helps deepen our relationship with God through intimate and consistent communication. It allows us to reflect on our sins, seek forgiveness, and align our lives with His will. Prayer prepares our hearts for the joy of the Resurrection by helping us reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice. It also strengthens us spiritually, empowering us to remain faithful in fasting and generous in almsgiving.
Practical Approaches to Lenten Prayer
There are many meaningful ways to grow in prayer during Lent. This may include increasing the frequency of prayer through daily Mass, Adoration, or morning and evening prayer. Creating time for silence and contemplation by turning off distractions such as radio or social media allows us to better listen to God. Reflecting on Scripture, especially the Gospels, or practicing Lectio Divina can deepen our understanding of His Word. Praying for specific intentions—such as those preparing for baptism, personal spiritual growth, and the grace to live out our baptismal promises—is also encouraged. Journaling prayers and reflections can help us remain attentive to how God is working in our lives.
Pope Francis reminds us that prayer opens our hearts to God’s mercy and strengthens us to care for those in need. St. John Paul II also emphasized its importance, saying, “Prayer joined to sacrifice constitutes the most powerful force in human history.”
Let us continue to grow in this essential pillar of our Lenten observance, drawing closer to the Lord and deepening our relationship with Him.
