Praying at the computer

As we are six days past Ash Wednesday, I find it easy to fall back into existing patterns and forget some of my Lenten resolutions. I find myself on the computer way more often than I find myself in prayer. Fortunately, there are resources that combine the two! This Lent, there are many parishes, dioceses and organizations that have blogs or online resources to help us in our Lenten journeys. If you find yourself struggling with prayer, check some of these out.

Reflections for Lent with Fr. Pat McGrath, SJ--weekly podcasts that you can download or listen to on your computer. Fr. Pat is a fantastic speaker and preacher and a member of Charis' Board.

Fast, Pray, Give--Bustedhalo provides a daily reflection and a suggestion for something to fast from, something to pray for, and something to give each day. They even have a "Slip Support Station" on Facebook to connect with others on the same journey.

Awaken--the blog of the Archdiocese of Chicago's Young Adult Ministry office. Read or listen to the Gospel reading of the day and read reflections from young adults and others around the country. There are also a few questions to help in your own prayer.

On a Lenten Journey--the first foray into the blogosphere for St. Andrew Church in Lakeview. It includes daily reflections, music, and even meatless recipes in case you're tired of fish and chips on Fridays.

Seven Weeks for the Soul: A Reflective Journey for Lent--an online Ignatian retreat through ignatianspirituality.com, a service of Loyola Press.

Believe, Celebrate, Live, Pray--the US Conference of Catholic Bishops have resources and suggestions for ways to grow in faith during Lent.

If you're looking for a community to share the Lenten journey, it's not too late to connect with a small faith sharing group.

~Lauren G