Necessity of prayer

Introduction to the Devout Life

Part Two: Chapters 1-11

English-speaking Group Discussions

Sr. Grea Mendoza, Bro Justyn Narzary and Fr. Sebhat Hadgu Kahsay

In the second part of the Introduction to the Devout Life, we are presented with various suggestions for  the elevation of the souls to God through prayers (and of the Sacraments).

St Francis de Sales emphasizes the necessity of prayer in our lives. Prayer opens the understanding to the brightness of Divine Light, and the will to the warmth of Heavenly Love, nothing can so effectually purify the mind from its many ignorances, or the will from its perverse affections. It is as a healing water which causes the roots of our good desires to send forth fresh shoots, which washes away the soul's imperfections, and allays the thirst of passion.

St Francis de Sales gives due importance and recommend to mental prayer or meditation that bears upon the life and Passion of our Lord. All our prayers whether mental or vocal should be made at the presence of God, therefore our prayers should be Christ-centered as he is source of our life. First and foremost one should place oneself in the presence of God and seek Gods’ aid to enlightenus. It is needful always to rouse the soul to a steadfast remembrance and thought of the Presence of God. St Francis de Sales presents prayer and meditation in a very creative and practical level and puts forth various ways and suggestions to make fruitful meditation that should be very applicable to our daily lives. Meditation is making use of the understanding that consists of reflection that arouse good movements of the will towards God and the things of Him.

 In our group we came to outlined the chapter VIII, where we discussed on mental prayer and its practical operation in our daily lives. On prayer and meditation, St Francis de Sales invites to retain the thoughts and resolutions that one have made as ones earnest practice throughout the day and endeavour to carry out ones resolutions, and seek for all opportunities. But very often with the call of everyday busyness and activities this is the most neglected and taken for granted. Thus our efforts and meditation bears less fruit.

In the area of Pastoral application:

• To be conscious of the presence of God in our lives and in the ambient where we live
• To be faithful to our daily meditation and live it throughout the day. And make it our rule of life.
• To make our lives in correspondence to the gospel values.
• To begin our pastoral activities with prayers, and making Christ as The Centre of all. (Christ-centered).
• To be witnesses to the world, our identity.

Submitted by Bro. Justin Narzary SDB
Photo by Joe Boenzi: Stained glass image of Francis de Sales in provincial house of Oblates of Francis de Sales, Wilmington, Delaware (11 August 2009)