“Lent is like a long ‘retreat’ during which we can turn back into ourselves and listen to the voice of God, in order to defeat the temptations of the Evil One. It is a period of spiritual ‘combat’ which we must experience alongside Jesus, not with pride and presumption, but using the arms of faith: prayer, listening to the word of God and penance. In this way we will be able to celebrate Easter in truth, ready to renew the promises of our Baptism.”  Pope Benedict XVI

Prayer Nook Elements

Here are some suggested items for your sacred space.  You don't need all of these but since you are meeting the King of Kings, they do come in handy in keeping our hearts and minds attuned to His presence.

Cross

The ultimate sign of God's saving grace in our lives is the holy cross.  When we see it, we remember that Jesus died in our place and took upon Himself all of our sins.  This should fill our hearts with unending gratitude and awe.

Bible

Daily reading of God's Word is like listening to Him speaking to us and guiding us on our way.  Let's make this a habit!  It is God's love letter to us and the more we take it to heart, the more we can grow in wisdom and joy.

Candle

The practice of lighting candles originated in early Christian history.  It helps us focus and ignore distractions.  It gives us a sense of calm and slows us down.  It helps us recall that "Christ is the light of the world" (John 8:12) and that we can do our part to share His light with others.

Holy figures

Small statues and figures of Jesus and the Holy Family serve as your "pictures" of them.  Our favorite saints serve as worthy reminders of how to live rightly.  The practice of displaying these figures began in the Old Testament when God directed His people to sculpt cherubims and place them in the temple.

Palms and plants

Many saints who died for the faith are represented by palms because, in ancient times, palms signified victory.  Those who have stayed faithful to God until their last day on earth will be given the crown of life.  Other plants and flowers have different meanings like lilies symbolize purity.  These serve to make your prayer nook a prettier place.

Book of prayer

If we hold certain holy men and women in high esteem, we can also strive to live as they did.  One way is to pray just like them.  The Psalms or Liturgy of the Hours are good examples of this.

Rosary

If we fall time and time again, and need a little more help becoming better Christians, the Holy Rosary is a powerful weapon in fighting evil.  Many have overcome vices by meditating on the life of Christ through the prayers of His Holy Mother.

 

Holy pictures

For us who are visual learners, pictures are very helpful during our quiet times.  Our minds have a tendency to wander so vignettes from the life of our Lord and of His saints give us a good perspective.  A good practice is to picture ourselves in the Bible scenes and to think of what God is telling us through the experience.

Spiritual books

The Lenten season is the perfect time to turn off the TV and social media.  Books are still the best way to enlightenment.  

Journal and Pen

Jot down your blessings as well as the things you've learned from your time with God.  Your journal can also hold a section on petitions or people you want to pray for. 

Place other items like holy oil or blessed salt for a house blessing here too.  A nice tablecloth or doily on the surface will make it more special.  All the items that draw your spirit heavenward can be collected here.

We at papemelroti hope that our products be a blessing in your home.  Each store you visit has a Prayer Nook where you can read all the inspirational messages to build up your faith.

Our newest collection called the Prayer Nook is now available.  More exciting products are coming soon that will be added to this set during this season.