My journey into the Anglican Church has given me the gift of prayer in a different way. I still love praying in an extemporaneous way, but I’ve benefited from the prayers of those who have gone before.

The Book of Common Prayer is designed to aid in worship and prayer. I use different prayers as a “platform” now. It’s a place to start. Often from one of those prayers I can then understand what my next words may be as I continue to walk in prayer for that day.

This one from Thomas Aquinas (Collect 94 in the 2019 Book of Common Prayer):

Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy thought can drag down; an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose can tempt aside. Bestow upon me understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and faithfulness that finally may embrace you. Amen