The Ways of Mental Prayer by Dom Vitalis Lehodey (1924)

The approach of St. Alphonsus de Liguori, drawn from his works such as The Great Means of Salvation and How to Converse Continually and Familiarly with God.

I. The Setting

• Time: about 15 to 30 minutes daily, if possible. Morning is ideal, but any quiet time works.

• Place: anywhere relatively quiet — a church, your room, even a parked car.

• Posture: any that helps recollection — seated, kneeling, etc.

• Books: have a crucifix, a Gospel, or a spiritual book to spark reflection.

If you’re easily distracted, Alphonsus says: “Do not fight the distraction directly; simply return to God with peace.”

II. The Three Parts of Mental Prayer

He simplified the structure into three main parts:

1. Preparation (2–3 minutes)

Make yourself aware that you are in the presence of God.

1. Act of faith in God’s presence:

   “My God, I believe that You are here present and that You see me.”

2. Act of humility:

   “Lord, I am not worthy to speak to You; have mercy on me.”

3. Act of petition for light:

   “Eternal Father, for the love of Jesus and Mary, give me light to know Your will and grace to do it.”

This simple opening collects the mind and heart.

2. Meditation (10–20 minutes)

This is the core of mental prayer. Alphonsus recommends focusing on a single truth of faith or scene from Scripture, and then letting the heart respond.

Method:

1. Reflect briefly on a truth — for example, “Jesus crucified for me,” or “God’s mercy,” or a Gospel story.

2. Engage the heart:

   • Admire God’s goodness.

   • Express sorrow for sin.

   • Thank Him for His love.

   • Make a resolution (“I will be patient today,” “I will avoid gossip,” etc.).

3. Speak to God simply, as a friend speaks to a friend.
   Alphonsus says: “Mental prayer is a conversation between the soul and God.”

“Speak to Him of your needs, your fears, your gratitude.
Do not fear to speak to Him familiarly; He loves simplicity.”

If distractions come, return gently to the theme or just repeat a short aspiration:
“Jesus, I love You.” – “My God, have mercy on me.” – “Thy will be done.”

3. Conclusion (2–5 minutes)

End calmly and reverently.

1. Thank God for the graces received during the prayer.

   “I thank You, Lord, for the lights and affections You have given me.”

2. Make a resolution about one concrete virtue or act.

   “Today, I will try to guard my speech.”

3. Ask for perseverance.

   “My Jesus, do not permit me to be separated from You.”

4. Invoke Our Lady’s help:

   “Mary, my Mother, help me to keep these resolutions.”

III. St. Alphonsus’s tips for the easily distracted

He understood human weakness very well:

• Don’t measure success by feelings.
  Prayer that feels dry or scattered can be more meritorious than prayer full of sweetness.

• Return gently when distracted.
  Don’t scold yourself — simply notice it and turn back to God.

• Shorten the meditation.
  Even five minutes well spent can keep the soul recollected all day.

• Keep one image or phrase.
  For instance: Jesus on the Cross, the Sacred Heart, or a verse like “The Lord is my shepherd.”

• Persevere daily.
  Regularity is more important than duration or brilliance.

“If you cannot meditate long, it is enough to place yourself in God’s presence and make acts of love.”
— St. Alphonsus

IV. A Simple Daily Example

1. Preparation:
   “My God, I believe You are here. I am sorry for my sins. Give me light.”

2. Meditation:
   Read slowly Luke 15 (the Prodigal Son).
   Think: “How good the Father is! And I have often run away.”
   Speak to God: “Father, receive me again. Help me to love You more today.”

3. Conclusion:
   “Thank You, Lord. I will try to forgive others as You forgive me.
   Jesus and Mary, keep me faithful.”

Summary Table