PRAYER PRIMER: Church and Family

Thoughts: As a husband and father, I found this section of Dubay’s book specifically helpful. Let me share with you some of his words that struck a chord with me: “Just as in a convent or monastery, a prayerful atmosphere is one that is penetrated with love for God and for others, so also in the marriage community . . . No harsh words, no nagging, no raising of voices, no quarreling – and generous forgiveness when there is a slip . . .If there is conflict or harshness in the routine of daily life, all of us (children included) find incongruity, if not pain, in trying to shift gears into something as sublime as conversing with the Lord” (page 119). How true! I remember with sadness how jolting it is to begin breakfast with “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” after arguing with Christelle or wrestling with my daughters to wash their hands before the meal. Sometimes, as Dubay writes, it is even painful. How terrible that family prayer should be painful! This observation of Dubay, reminds me that thoughtless and angry words have far reaching consequences, especially in my home, my domestic church. May God grant peace and holiness to all our homes.

Questions for discussion:
When is prayer painful for you? for others?

Dubay puts emphasis on the communal aspects of prayer, especially the Church’s liturgical prayer. Why is this so?