School of Prayer

What is School of Prayer?

The term comes from Saint Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Letter, Novo Millennio Ineuente which states, "Yes, dear brothers and sisters, our Christian communities must become genuine "schools" of prayer, where the meeting with Christ is expressed not just in imploring help but also in thanksgiving, praise, adoration, contemplation, listening and ardent devotion, until the heart truly "falls in love". Intense prayer, yes, but it does not distract us from our commitment to history: by opening our heart to the love of God it also opens it to the love of our brothers and sisters, and makes us capable of shaping history according to God's plan." At. St. B's School of Prayer, we want to help you:

• Truly fall in love with Jesus
• Open your heart to God's beloved (everyone) 
• Be empowered and emboldened to shape history with us, according to God's plan
• Together we can set the world on fire!

2024 Summer Series - Franciscan School of Theology

We again are partnering with the Franciscan School of Theology for our Summer School of Prayer. See our 2024 summer schedule of presentations bi-weekly June through August. Each session was stand alone so you can pick topics of interest to attend or come to the whole series. No cost.

2023 Summer Series - Franciscan School of Theology

We began partnering with the Franciscan School of Theology for our 2023 Summer School of Prayer. We enjoyed weekly presentations all summer long.

2023 Winter series - Mass in Slow Motion

Many joined us for our Mass in Slow Motion 2-Part Series. The Mass is the central prayer of the Catholic experience. The Mass is what Catholics have been doing since the first century, nearly 2,000 years. Ever wonder where all the prayers come from? Why do we sit, stand or kneel at different times. What is actually happening during the various parts of the Mass and what is the role of the gathered faithful in the pews? These and many more questions were unpacked by Father Steve and Deacon Chris in two sessions, in the church. All were invited, lifelong Catholics and first-time visitors. 

• Part 1: Liturgy of the Word - Recording available here
• Part 2: Liturgy of the Eucharist - Recording available here
• Click here for accompanying 42-page Syllabus with additional resources

2022 Summer Series - Let us Dream

Deacon Christ, walked us through Pope Francis' book Let Us Dream; A Path to a Better Future. And from that book discussion the Dream Team was formed. If you are interested in learning more or being part of the dream team contact Deacon Chris.

• Book and Audiobook also available at the SD Library
• Purchase your book here on Amazon
• Watch the recordings here; slide links too

2021 Summer Series - The Time is Now

Drawing on the wisdom of the prophets, both ancient and modern, Sr. Joan Chittister exhorts humanity to confront the societal forces that oppress and silence the sacred voices among us. She offers a compelling vision to combat complacency and to propel us toward creating a world of justice, freedom, peace, and empowerment. Purchase the book

2019 Summer Series - Who Do You Say That I Am?

This summer's topic focused on the question Jesus posed to his disciples - "Who Do You Say That I Am (Mk 8:29)?" Peter's answer to Jesus' question changed him and called him to a whole new way of life. It was his defining moment. Because who Jesus is makes all the difference! Who is Jesus to you? Have you had that defining moment? If not, are you ready? See links below to resources from this summer's topic:

• Week 1 - Introduction and Images of Jesus
• Week 2 - Being Christian
• Week 3 - Being a Disciple
• Week 4 - Being a Prophet
• Week 5 - Being a Priest
• Week 6 - Being a King/Steward