Prayer Part 2: What is Prayer? (Part 2)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the nature of prayer as a personal encounter and continual communion with God, emphasizing that prayer is more than words—it involves the mind, heart, and body. He explains prayer as an elevation of the mind and heart to God, necessary for receiving grace to overcome passions and grow in virtue. Fr. Matthias stresses that prayer is a struggle requiring discipline, not driven solely by feelings but by a conscious decision to seek God, even amid distractions and busyness. He distinguishes prayer from relaxation or emotional experience, highlighting it as a self-offering and a spiritual discipline essential for holiness. Through biblical references and practical advice, Fr. Matthias encourages perseverance in prayer, describing it as a journey toward unity with God and a restoration of the divine communion lost since Eden. The talk concludes with an invitation to develop a consistent prayer life grounded in love and sacrifice.