Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and relax. Take three deep breaths and remember how much God cares for and loves you as you grow in your Catholic faith.

Matthew 6:9-10

This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done,on earth as in heaven.

Jesus teaches us that God is our Father, his name is holy, and we can speak to him directly in prayer. God's care for us is profound, and we echo this intimate bond when we pray "Our Father." The love present in the Kingdom of God in heaven is meant to be present on earth as well. When we pray the Lord's Prayer, we ask God to direct our lives to make this a reality. As God's children, we are to work for justice and peace, witnessing to the love of God that we experience.

When I pray the Lord's Prayer, are my lips reciting a well-rehearsed verse, or is my heart praying for the will of my heavenly Father to transform me and my world?

How have I experienced God's profound care for me?

(Speak to your heavenly Father using these words or others that come to mind.)

Father in heaven, your name is holy. May my life always serve your kingdom of love on earth.