The Complete Edition Prayer is essential to the life of faith. In this superb book, based on Pope Benedict's weekly teaching, he examines the foundational principles of the life of prayer. Believers of various backgrounds and experience in prayer-from beginners to spiritually advanced-will be enriched by this spiritual masterpiece. Benedict begins considering what we can learn from the examples of prayer found in a wide range of cultures and eras. Next, he turns to the Bible's teaching about prayer, beginning with Abraham and moving though Moses, the prophets, the Psalms to the example of Jesus. With Jesus Christ, Pope Benedict considers not only the Lord's teaching about prayer, but also his example of how to pray, including the Our Father, his prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane, and prayers on the Cross. The prayers of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and the early Church are also explored. Benedict also draws on insights from spiritual masters, the saints, and the Church's liturgy. He challenges readers to live their relationships with God "even more intensely, as it were, at a ಘschool of prayer'." Although Benedict provides a sweeping survey of great figures of prayer, his discussion centers on Jesus Christ and even invokes him in the study of prayer. "It is in fact in Jesus," writes Benedict, "that man becomes able to approach God in the depth and intimacy of the relationship of fatherhood and sonship. Together with the first disciples, let us now turn with humble trust to the Teacher and ask him: ಘLord, teach us to pray' (Lk 11:1)."

Anyone seeking a more complete prayer life eventually comes up against the Divine Office, a formidable obstacle for the uninitiated. Here is a clear, simple, and complete introduction that will guide anyone wishing to take up morning, evening, and night prayer from the Divine Office. The basic principle of the Office is explained, and the method of putting the principle into practice is detailed. With the Office providing both the words and the discipline, a consistent prayer life based on the Divine Office can be built. Pocket-sized, with ribbon marker.

This book has been written with a deep impression that the place and power of prayer in the Christian life is too little understood. I feel sure that as long as we look on prayer solely as the means of maintaining our own Christian life, we shall not know fully what it is meant to be. But when we learn to regard it as the highest part of the work entrusted to us, the root and strength of all other work, we shall see that we need nothing more than to study and practice the art of praying. If I have succeeded in pointing out the progressive teaching of our Lord in regard to prayer, and the distinct reference of His wonderful promises of His last night to the works we are to do in His name – to the greater works and the bearing of much fruit – we shall all admit that only when the church gives herself up to this holy work of intercession can she expect the power of Christ to manifest itself on her behalf. I pray that God will use this book to explain to some of His children the wonderful place of power and influence that He is waiting for them to occupy and that a weary world is waiting for too. - Andrew Murray

The Psalms Study Set provides the home study component of Psalms: The School of Prayer. Its ten lessons take you through this ancient prayer book, revealing its continuing value as instructor and companion for individual prayer and for the prayer of the Church. Group discussion of the questions reinforces the lesson, while the suggested responses provide additional insights and explanations. Each lesson should be concluded with the corresponding presentation from the DVD or CD series, which contains expert commentary presented by Jeff Cavins, Sarah Christmyer, and Tim Gray.

A classic book on prayer, written out of the author's own deep spiritual life. It includes an interview with Metropolitan Anthony, who reveals details of hos life - his traumatic childhood, his career as a physician, his experience in the French Resistance, as well as his conversion and call to the ordained ministry. He provides help and inspiration for all of us who struggle with our faith.

GBS LOCAL 07-30-2002 $20.00.

This beginner's guide to prayer will guide Catholics who need help learning to pray.