Catholic Spiritual Practices

The Catholic faith is filled with a rich tradition of daily prayer. Many people practice their faith through daily devotion to God through various prayers written by great spiritual writers. Consider using these Catholic prayer books to deepen your faith this Lent.

Catholics are known for the ascetic practice of fasting, especially during Lent. Practicing fasting can lead us to a transformation of mind, body, and spirit if it is focused on God. Although the practice is not as popular among Catholics as it once was, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope John Paul II have called for the Church to rediscover this venerable practice.

“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mk 6:31). Jesus invites us to take a step back from our lives and allow him to restore ourselves through spiritual retreat. There are a number of resources that can help nourish us while we seek God on a personal retreat.

The Stations of the Cross, or Way of the Cross, is one of the most popular devotions during Lent. Catholics, either alone or in community, spiritually walk with Jesus through his passion and death. The Stations of the Cross booklets below are helpful guides to this devotion and the Stations of the Cross iPhone App provides a suitable source of reflection for tech-savvy Catholics.