The state passed a law forbidding true prayer. Daniel broke the law repeatedly and publicly (Dn 6:11). Some contemporary governments have passed laws forbidding prayer completely or in certain places and on certain occasions. Also, there are various tyrannical, unwritten laws forbidding public prayer at work, even at home, or in other social situations. We need to be like Daniel and break the law repeatedly and publicly. Let us prayerfully and joyfully go into the lion's den (Dn 6:17).

We must not compromise on the necessity and right to pray always (Lk 18:1), for prayer is communication with God, Who is the Love of our lives. We should either die praying or be rescued from death by the power of prayer (see Acts 12:5). The Lord commands us: "Never cease praying" (1 Thes 5:17). There is "the necessity of praying always and not losing heart" (Lk 18:1).

Therefore, pray always. Pray courageously and publicly. Pray together and individually. Pray in marriages, families, schools, factories, and offices. Pray on streets and telephones. Pray where people don't pray. Pray "in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health." Pray when you understand God and when you don't. Pray when your prayers don't seem to be answered. Pray in darkness, dryness, and confusion. Pray always.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert A. Stricker, May 8, 2001

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 18, 2001