A Volley from the Canon, #78, Pray without Ceasing

PRAYER WITHOUT CEASING

THE BREATH PRAYER

Years ago, my friend Ron DelBene of the Diocese of Alabama used to advocate what he called “Breath Prayer.” He did not mean prayer related to one’s breathing, as in some eastern disciplines. He meant prayer that is as natural and constant as breathing.

This is far from a new idea. The most common example would be the “Jesus Prayer,” which, with many variations, goes, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” That works for a great many Christian people. But Ron asked, what if that is not your own prayer, at least at this time in your life? What would be your own, personal “breath prayer,” the one that expresses, economically and directly, your own heart’s desire?

He suggested, in prayer, to formulate one. Start with addressing to whom you are praying: “Lord,” or “Dear Jesus,” or whatever is the most appropriate form of address for you in your relationship with The Divine. Then, guided by the Spirit, express what matters most to you, that involves your own spiritual life, at the present time. Keep it short and to the point, because you’ll be repeating it.

That’s your “Breath Prayer.” Repeat as needed—meaning as often as possible, while driving, applying make-up, showering, jogging, standing in the supermarket line, and so on. Try variants such as placing emphasis on different words in series, and note how the meaning cycles.

Your Breath Prayer may last you for years, or you may wear it out. You’ll know, if that happens. But for the time of its usefulness, having and using a Breath Prayer can be a wonderful and meaningful way to practice “praying without ceasing.”

A blessed and holy Lent to all.