Lord Teach Us to Pray: A Guide to the Spiritual Life and Christian Discipleship

by Jeffrey Kirby

Echoing the petition of the disciples, “Lord, teach us to pray,” this book guides the reader through the various stages of prayer and the spiritual life. Fr. Kirby lovingly and expertly examines this crucial petition, shedding light on its three parts—Jesus as Lord, Jesus as teacher, and what it means to pray—while laying out a course for prayer and a strengthening of the interior life.

Fr. Kirby has created a valuable tool in assisting people develop and deepen their prayer life. This beautiful work on prayer can be useful for all people serious about their faith journey, but would be especially helpful for young adults seeking to discern the direction of their response to God. It offers a "roadmap" for developing a satisfying prayer life. - Most Reverend Robert E. Guglielmone, DD, Bishop of Charleston

The Church needs more spiritual guides like Fr. Jeff Kirby. In his wonderful book on the spiritual journey, Fr. Kirby provides a great resource to help people grow in their relationship with the Lord and discover more fully their personal mission in life as a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. - Most Reverend Robert J. Baker, STD, Bishop of Birmingham, Author, When Did We See You, Lord?

Father Kirby has written a guide that is steeped in scripture and that truly helps the reader learn who Jesus is, how to do what he asks, and how to be in a deeper relationship with him. This book is a very helpful resource for anyone who seeks to improve his or her spiritual life. I highly recommend it. - Very Reverend Robert Barron, STD, Rector/Pres. of Mundelein Seminary/University of St. Mary of the Lake, Author, Catholicism

It is a pleasure to highly recommend Father Kirby’s new book. I know that his theological studies in Rome and his wide pastoral experience with young people
have equipped him to present the faith in a way that is doctrinally rich and sensitive to the questions and needs of today’s young people. I am confident that this book will enrich the faith and Christian life of those who use it. - Msgr. Francis D. Kelly, Canon of St. Peter’s Basilica, Author, The Mystery We Proclaim

Genres: Catholic, Religion, Spirituality, Prayer

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 28, 2014

About the author

Father Jeff Kirby is the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Grace Parish in Indian Land, South Carolina (gracewepray.org). He holds a doctorate in moral theology from the Holy Cross University in Rome and a Master of Arts in Philosophy from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Father Kirby serves as an Adjunct Professor of Theology at Belmont Abbey College and Pontifex University. He has authored several books, including "Lord, Teach Us to Pray," "Kingdom of Happiness: Living the Beatitudes in Everyday Life," "God's Search for Us," and most recently, "Be Not Troubled: A 6-Day Personal Retreat with Fr. Jean-Pierre DeCaussade."

In 2016, Father Kirby was recognized by Governor Nikki Haley and granted the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, for his service to local communities and young adults throughout the state.

Working with St. Benedict Press and Catholic Scripture Study International, Father Kirby was the Host of the award-winning program "Doors of Mercy" and was one of the co-instructors of the programs, "Luke: The Gospel of Mercy" and "Jesus Revealed."

Father Kirby is a weekly Senior Contributor for the news site Crux: Taking the Catholic Pulse.

Reviews

[Olivia Goodale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes God knows exactly what you need when you need it. I reached for this book off of our bookshelf, pretty randomly, with no expectations for it. I found, however, that my prayer life has been strengthened, revitalized, and focused in a way that hasn’t been before. I’m grateful for God‘s timing of this book.

I was surprised at how this book came perfectly into what I had been struggling with and gave me opportunity to reflect, take action, and grow with God all while beautifully meeting me where I was at. I’ve never encountered “particular examen” before and have continually gone back to it since finishing this book.

I loved how this book was divided into three parts. Each part challenged my relationship with prayer and with God. I never felt overwhelmed or that it was over my head. Again, the timing of me reading this book felt so perfect and divinely influenced.

Along with being a tool to boost my own prayer and self reflection, Father Kirby includes many other Catholic books that I found myself jotting down for future reading. I am so thankful for such a gift to kickstart myself back into Christ’s arms.

Some favorite quotes:

“We are called to die to ourselves and our sinfulness and live in him and seek to follow him in all our ways” (10).

“Faith is a decision involving one’s whole existence” (13).

“Do we realize how much we need the LORD? Why do we call him LORD and then not do what he tells us?” (48).

“We cannot simply learn how to pray. We must also learn how to live our prayer and follow the Lord Jesus and both virtue and prayer” (49).

5/5

[Rick Rapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful little book was a gift to me by a man I met this season in a group called That Man Is You. He is a devout Catholic (and a convert). He is the epitome of gentleness, wisdom, and kindness. So I was anxious to read the book that he shared with me. It is a simple one divided into three sections: Lord, Teach Us, and To Pray. It is direct and encouraging. Father Kirby uses the book as an extended homily and he enlightens us on the meaning of prayer as well as the ways to engage in prayer. It is thoughtful and inspiring. I believe I have gained some needed wisdom from reading it.

[Sam Fink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable and aimed at early adults or those newly associated with the faith. Also beneficial for more senior Catholics with less developed training as has occurred post Vatican II. Very useful ideas for deepening your prayer life and daily devotions. A pleasant surprise. An amiable tone -- just like the author. Consider this book a must.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come For The Prayer, Not For The Peanuts

This book is an excellent resource for those seeking guidance on prayer, combining theology and philosophy to provide a unique perspective on the subject. While some may find the references to Peanuts comics distracting (I for one CAN'T STAND Peanuts), they do not detract from the overall quality of the book.

One of the standout features of the book is its ability to deliver complex ideas in a concise and easy-to-understand manner, making it accessible to readers with varying levels of spiritual and intellectual backgrounds.

Overall, this is a valuable addition to anyone's spiritual library and a must-read for those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of prayer. I highly recommend it.

4.2/5

[Matt Castello · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some very good reminders and practical applications. This book is a nice read from Fr. Kirby.

[Scott Whitlock · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was some useful parts, but overall, I didn't find the book particularly useful. And I don't know if I agree with the theology of this book in the end. However, some may find the discussion useful, especially early on in their spiritual journey.

[Dana]

He asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" (Luke 19:41) Awesome question I had not really thought about. Great book.