In the seminary we had a disciplined schedule of prayer, work and study. Our lives were dictated by the bells that told us when we were to change classes, go to the chapel for morning prayer, Mass, evening prayer, holy hour, meals and even recreation. Sort of like boot camp for those familiar with military training.
When I reflect back on our prayer time, I realize that I was taught how to read prayers using the Breviary (Liturgy of the hours), four volumes of books that we promise to pray at our ordination to Deaconate and to be carried through our priesthood. We were to pray for the people of God. We were also taught how to use the Sacramentary (now called the Roman Missal). At some point in my life, I felt that I was taught to read prayers, but never taught to have a real conversation with God.
Through my own faith journey, I began to believe that Prayer is a moment of intimacy with God. It is an intimate dialogue with the Lord. Just as friends need to see one another and talk to one another, so too we need these moments of intimacy with the Lord.
During our Alpha retreat we all had an opportunity to sharpen our prayer skills. This was life changing for me when I began the Alpha journey. I realize that I need to pray with people, not simply pray for them. This is a whole change in my Roman Catholic upbringing. It was uncomfortable at first, but now I am getting more comfortable in praying with people who ask for prayers. I know this sounds strange to hear from a priest, but we were taught that we needed to “follow the rubrics” the rules laid down for the recitation of the Divine Office, the celebration of Mass, and the administration of the sacraments.
Through the Alpha journey I have begun a new and wonderful relationship with our community and with Jesus Christ. Who says you can’t teach an old priest new ways to pray and relate personally with Jesus Christ?