Christian relational prayer is focused on friendship with Christ. Much of the fear and anxiety young people often experience around discernment arises from a false understanding of prayer, focused entirely on figuring out what one must do. The vocational question, however, cannot be the first question of prayer: only once one has experienced the presence of Christ and has begun to receive from the heart of God can one begin to discern. The question of one’s vocation must be approached from within a lived relationship with Christ through a spirit of gratitude and magnanimity, rather than of sloth and pusillanimity.

What is prayer? How can I hear God’s voice? How can I discern his will and pursue my vocation? Father Dominic Bouck, chaplain of the University of Mary, discussed these questions with Monsignor Thomas J. Richter, a priest of the Diocese of Bismarck known for his insights into Christian prayer, spiritual direction, and vocational discernment. Reflecting on their experiences in parish ministry and working with students of all ages, Msgr. Richter and Fr. Bouck present a profound and lively view of Christian prayer.

Prime Matters (www.primematters.com) is a groundbreaking project of educational outreach of the University of Mary: "Awakening the Catholic Imaginative Vision."