Fr Rob Taylerson, a Diocesan Priest and Spiritual Director at St Mary’s College, Oscott, has produced a new guide to accompany the Year of Prayer journey.

‘Pope Francis’ Catechesis on Prayer, arranged for each liturgical week’ can be used from this Advent, which marks the start of the Year of Prayer.

During his papacy Pope Francis has given catechesis on various important topics. 

In 2020 and 2021 the Holy Father gave 38 catechetical talks on prayer during papal audiences, which make up the content of the reflections in Fr Taylerson’s guide.

As far as possible Fr Taylerson has arranged the 38 talks to match the Sunday readings for the liturgical year ahead, with some talks been used twice.

“The readings can be used to help particular ways of prayer with the Sunday readings, or can be used as stand-alone teachings and reflections on prayer without reference to the Sunday readings,” said Fr Taylerson.
 
“Pope Francis produced these catechetical talks for the whole church. They are appropriate for all and can profitably be reflected on and put into practice by individuals or groups.”

Fr Taylerson already uses the talks in a course he teaches, and as a member of the Spirituality Committee for the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales suggested they would provide a suitable resource for the Year of Prayer.

“In discussion with the committee they asked if these talks could be arranged in a suitable manner to accompany the Sunday readings of the liturgical year,” said Fr Taylerson. “So, I undertook to do the matching-up of talks and readings and write a short introduction to each talk in the first half of this year.

“During each week throughout the Year of Prayer there is something to reflect on to deepen our love and appreciation of prayer, and to grow our relationship with God.”

DOWNLOAD guide

DOWNLOAD Pope Francis' Catechesis on Prayer

Find out more: The Year of Prayer and the Jubilee Year