This booklet clearly explains what mental prayer or "meditation" is and how to do it. Whereas larger books about this topic fail, this booklet succeeds in helping to seek a true understanding of mental prayer as a form of meditation. Takes the beginner step-by-step through the 3 basic aspects. Mental prayer is for all--so is this book.

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In this short but comprehensive guide, Father Gabriel describes in clear terms the means and methods of mental prayer. Set out in question-and-answer format, the Little Catechism of Prayer is an invaluable work for those seeking to enter more deeply into a life of prayer and loving communion with God. Mental prayer is indispensable to the spiritual life; normally it is, so to speak, its very breath. However, this spontaneity in prayer is usually realized only if the soul applies itself to meditation for some time by its own personal effort. In other words, one must learn how to pray. It is to teach souls this devout practice that various meditation books have been published. There are many methods, each with its own merit; among them is the Teresian method, so called because it is based on the teachings of St. Teresa of Jesus, the Foundress of the Discalced Carmelites and the great mistress of the spiritual life. . . . We outlined this method in a pamphlet called the Little Catechism of Prayer.... It is a simple exposition of the Teresian method according to the writings of many Carmelite authors; its widespread circulation shows very clearly that this method answers the needs and the desires of many prayerful souls. Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalene, Preface to Divine Intimacy (1963).

Uses rhyme and illustrations to teach children how to practice prayer of the heart, contemplative prayer, or centering prayer.

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What is Centering Prayer? What are its origins? Is it a form of New Age meditation, or a thoroughly Catholic prayer method that can lead to contemplation? Connie Rossini digs into the writings and public statements of Fr. Thomas Keating, one of Centering Prayer's foremost proponents. She compares his words with the writings of St. Teresa of Avila on prayer, and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on New Age spirituality. Find out if Centering Prayer is a reliable method for union with God, or a counterfeit that Catholics should avoid.