Oremus is a Latin expression that means "Let us pray."  Oremus--A Guide to Catholic Prayer is a video discussion series which explores the essentials of a fruitful prayer life.  It is designed for any individual who wants to deepen their prayer life, overcome the frustrations which often accompany prayer, and discover how to make time for prayer even in the midst of busy lives.

The Program

   As Catholics, we have a deep spiritual heritage in classic forms of prayer, including mediation, contemplation, and the spiritual senses.  These rich forms of Christian prayer allow us to "dive deep" into the oceans of God's merciful love and caring presence.  Oremus provides a basic introduction to meditative and contemplative prayer, what is called imaginative prayer, and an ancient form of prayer called holy reading ( lectio divina), all drawn from principles proposed by St. Ignatius of Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises.
   In addition to the video presentation and discussion, an accompanying journal enables participants to record thoughts, discoveries and challenges and to practice the techniques which are being explored.
      Fr. Mark Toups, the facilitator of this series writes: In her autobiography, St. Therese of Lisiux
      describes prayer in this way: "For me prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward
      heaven; it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy."  If you're hungry for this
      "surge of the heart" Oremus is for you.

> Watch a video introduction to Oremus here.

Take-Away

This video study series helps participants:
• become more aware of God's presence in their lives;
• discover how God speaks to them in Scripture, in their hearts, and in the ordinary moments of daily life.  
• learn how to respond to God and express themselves using the simple but powerful steps of Catholic
   prayer;
• learn how to overcome frustrations, distractions and dryness
• understand desolation and consolation as a normal part of every person's relationship with God.

•   •   •

Current Schedule

Live Video Discussion. 7:00-8:00pm.
Register Here to Participate
Use this link to participate in the discussion:  meet.google.com/phv-umbr-zgr

Wednesday, February 24. What Is Prayer?
Wednesday, March 3. Before You Pray
Wednesday, March 10.  Lectio Divina
Wednesday, March 17. Relational Prayer
Wednesday, March 24. Spiritual Senses

•   •   •

The Presenter

Fr. Mark Toups, the host of Oremus, is a priest in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Louisiana, where he serves as Vicar General and Pastor of Our Lady of the Isle Catholic Church in Grand Isle.  director of seminarians.  He received his master of divinity degree from Note Dame Seminary in New Orleans, has served as director of seminarians, and worked with the Institute for Priestly Formation.

[Last Update: 01.26.21]