We must not leave off our prayers because of distractions and restlessness of mind, although it seems useless to go on with them. He who perseveres for the whole of his accustomed time, gently recalling his mind to the subject of his prayer, merits greatly.
–Saint Philip Neri (1515-1595)
What most of all hinders heavenly consolation is that you are too slow in turning yourself to prayer.
–Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Prayer is a pure elevation of our minds to God, believing that he is more in us than we are in ourselves.
–Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
Be not afraid to tell Jesus that you love Him; even though it be without feeling, this is the way to oblige Him to help you, and carry you like a little child too feeble to walk.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
In times of aridity, when I am incapable of praying or practicing virtue, I seek little opportunities, mere trifles, to give pleasure to Jesus. For instance, a smile, a pleasant word when inclined to be silent and to show weariness. If I find no opportunities, I at least tell Him again and again that I love Him, that is not difficult and it keeps alive the fire in my heart. Even though this fire of love might seem extinct, I would still throw little straws upon the embers and I am certain that it would rekindle.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
During painful times, when you feel a terrible void, think how the capacity of your soul is being enlarged so that it can receive God– becoming as it were, infinite as God is infinite.
–Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity (1880-1906)
