Adoration
Introduction
In the Catholic Community, praying before Jesus who is truly present in the Eucharist is a special experience of prayer. It is called Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
We Adore Jesus which means we recognise he is with us as he promised he would be. We adore him and thank him for his real presence before us in the monstrance (special stand on the altar) which contains the consecrated host from the celebration of Mass.
We experience being with Jesus rather than doing something for Jesus. Just like a deep friendship, we move into a deep silence of prayer and enjoy being with a friend with whom we are seen, known, and loved.
Over time our heart begins to enjoy this silence with the true presence of Jesus. A special experience of love from this prayer forms our heart, deepens our faith, and creates a love for this sacred space and place in the midst of the noise of the world.
Practice
Arrive and Settle: Take a moment to become still. Sit or kneel comfortably. Slow your breathing. Become aware that you are in the presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.
Acknowledge His Presence: Silently say a simple phrase, such as:
“Jesus, I believe You are here. I place myself in Your presence.”Be Present Rather Than Busy: Resist the urge to fill the time with many words. Allow silence. If distractions arise, gently return your attention to Jesus, perhaps by looking toward the monstrance or repeating a short prayer like: “Jesus, I trust in You.” or “Be Still and Know that I am God”
Speak Heart to Heart: When ready, speak to Jesus honestly—about your life, your desires, your fears, your hopes.
Listen: After speaking, rest again in silence. Listening in prayer is not always about hearing words but more about receiving a sense of peace, clarity, knowing love or experiencing a gentle invitation.
Conclude with Gratitude: End by thanking Jesus simply for His presence, whether the prayer felt rich or dry.
Reflection
Adoration is not so much an experience to achieve as a relationship to receive.
As I sat before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, what did I notice rising within me—restlessness, peace, resistance, desire—and what might the Lord be gently revealing about my heart at this stage of my life?