Together on the Journey: A Weekly Word from Archbishop Hebda
Now today’s subject line may have prompted you to think that I am talking about my hometown team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, in this week’s Weekly Word—but I’m not (although they could certainly use your prayers). I’m not even talking about Roberto Clemente, a celebrated Pittsburgh Pirate whose cause for beatification is sometimes discussed (you will remember that he lost his life in a tragic plane accident while generously serving those affected by an earthquake in Nicaragua).
Instead, what prompts today’s topic is another one of those “national days.” Check your calendar and you will see that September 19 is “Talk like a Pirate day” – who thinks of things?
No, I won’t be teaching you how to talk like Jack Sparrow or Captain Hook, but there is a great method of prayer that sounds an awful lot like a pirate’s drawl: we call it ARRR. This simple method of prayer is loved by many Catholics, lay and ordained…and worth a Weekly Word.
The “A” in ARRR stands for “Acknowledge.” The first step is effective prayer is acknowledging God’s presence in our life. Imagine that he is right here and looking at us with delight.
Next, “Relate” with God and have a conversation. Share what is on your heart.
After sharing, just like in a conversation with a friend, “Receive” what God wants you to have. After pouring out your heart, you have the chance to listen.
Finally, “Respond” in concrete terms to what the Lord has asked of you. This can be something simple, like adding an extra prayer in your morning devotions or being more intentional with your co-workers. Or it could be something more radical, like taking a new holy hour in your parish’s perpetual adoration rotation or joining a small group in your parish.
If you have been struggling with daily prayer or just looking for a refresh, try out this method sometime this week. Go Pirates!
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