Parish catechetical course · 23 / 27 · YOUCAT question topics 469–475
Why do Christians pray?
The essential idea
Prayer is a living encounter with God. We come not only with requests but also praise, gratitude, repentance and attentive silence.
Questions and explanations
Does God need our words?
God knows our needs. Prayer changes us, schooling us in trust, attention and truthfulness.
What forms can prayer take?
Praise, thanksgiving, petition, intercession, repentance and contemplation. Different circumstances may call forth different forms.
Why did Jesus teach prayer?
Jesus prayed to the Father and taught his disciples to pray. His example shows that prayer belongs at the heart of relationship with God.
May I pray in simple words?
Yes. Sincere prayer does not depend on eloquence. The Church’s prayers teach us a common language when our own words fail.
Scripture references
Lk 11:1-4, Ps 63:1-8
In everyday life
Before a difficult conversation, pause for a minute, ask God for wisdom and then respond.
For reflection
- What do I most often say to God?
- Is there room for silence in my prayer?
A step to take
Pray in your own words today, then remain in quiet for a few minutes.
Sources and notes
YOUCAT: YOUCAT question topics 469–475. Original parish catechesis organised by YOUCAT themes. Not an official YOUCAT text, translation or edition. No pages or illustrations from the original book are reproduced.
Catechism of the Catholic Church · UGCC Catechism “Christ — Our Pascha”