The first significant community event of the Ignite Your Faith program was the first of four small group book discussions which was facilitated by parishioner Tod Worner. The hour long event was broken up into a couple of sections that included a summary of each of the first two chapters, small group discussion time (handout questions provided), and time for a larger group discussion. A few of the discussion questions provided include, 1.) Can you tell when you are and are not spiritually healthy? What are the indicators? 2.) Do you have a daily routine of prayer? If so, what is it? If not, what would you like it to be after reading this chapter? The discussion questions and presentation by Tod was motivational, spiritually thoughtful, and accessible to all Catholics. Before the night ended, it could be heard that most if not all in attendance were able to have a sacred space for open discussion and questions with like-minded people. I personally left feeling spiritual fed, knowing the Holy Spirit was present in my heart and mind, all the while left my soul stirring for something more, moving me to make strides in my personal relationship with my Lord and my God. 

The second major event within our community's "prayer" season was Prayer in Word and Song, a presentation led by Father Mike Joncas. The hour long worship and prayer experience followed the ideas behind the acronym A.C.T.S., which in order of importance stand for adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. Music director Richard Clarke along with four of St. Bart's finest cantors, provided the music for the evening. 

Father Joncas provided a comprehensive education on the four types of prayer using real life examples, Scripture readings, worship hymns, and a call for each of us to reflect on our own relationship and ways of communication with God. While each of us personally had a different experience, after the evening was complete, I had a chance to ask of few in attendance their thoughts. One person shared, "Father Mike Joncas' presentation on prayer, coupled with Richard's music and cantors, was most insightful and educational, spiritually uplifting, and emotionally touching. I loved it. I will incorporate two specific insights into my prayer life." Another shared, "My time at prayer is deeper and more meaningful after hearing Father Joncas' message set to music."

"Prayer is, for me, an outburst from the heart; it is a simple glance darted upwards to Heaven; it is a cry of gratitude and of love in the midst of trial as in the midst of joy! In a word, it is something exalted, supernatural, which dilates the soul and unites it to God. Sometimes when I find myself, spiritually, in dryness so great that I cannot produce a single good thought, I recite very slowly a Pater or an Ave Maria; these prayers alone console me, they suffice, they nourish my soul."

St. Therese

Story of A Soul, Chapter X

Taken from http://www.littleflower.org/therese/words-of-st-therese/prayer/