by Richard M. Weinberg (Author)

Prayer is not a performance. Neither is it a spiritual chore to check off. Prayer is about tending to our relationship with God. It's how we show up to the One who is already showing up for us. And yet for many of us, prayer feels difficult or even impossible.

Something sacred happens when we stop hiding and simply say to God:

Here. This is what I've got. I need your help.

That's what this booklet is about.

This resource is a gentle companion for anyone who is trying-or maybe trying again-to develop a personal prayer practice. It was written with the author's Episcopal parish community in mind, but it may offer something meaningful to any reader who hungers for a more honest and grounded way of praying. Whether prayer is new to you or has been part of your life for decades, you'll find something here that meets you where you are.

You'll find simple guides to ancient practices that have sustained generations of Christians-especially those shaped by the wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola, the 16th century Spanish saint and founder of the Society of Jesus (whose members are called Jesuits):

• A brief reflection on what prayer is
• Practical encouragement for getting started
• Tools like the Daily Examen and scripture contemplation
• And above all, an invitation to be with God-just as you are