There are innumerable ways in which to pray and many methods of prayer. One of the greatest helps to prayer for most people is a book of prayers. It puts at our fingertips a precious treasury of words by which we can approach God every day. Such ready-made prayers imprint on our minds the sentiments that the Church wants us to have in prayer.

Prayers of this type also convey a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Church's teaching. In a subtle and unobtrusive fashion they teach the Faith while allowing us to approach God. By using them we not only come closer to God but also get to know Him better with every passing day.

It goes without saying that we can also pray in our words instead of words found on a printed page-and indeed we must do so. However, ready-made prayers are there for those times when we do not know what to say and need help in speaking to God. We need the help of past ages as well as present trends to say what we feel and what we should feel.

This book will help in disposing us to receive the Sacraments and to be united with God in the circumstances of life and celebrations of the mysteries of salvation during the Liturgy Year.

It also provides private devotions in honor of the Blessed Mother and the Saints, which are intended to lead us to God, the Source of holiness and Giver of every good gift.
-PREFACE