Am I Praying?

Fr. Matthew and St. Isidore youth traveled to Rome last summer to immerse themselves in holy places, become friends with the saints, and grow deeper in faith alongside a million young Catholics from around the world.

Attending the Jubilee of Youth was a surreal and unforgettable experience. Gathering with over one million Catholics from every country, language, and culture revealed the beauty of our one universal faith. The vibrance, zeal, and joy of so many young people filled me with hope. Together, we showed the world that Catholicism is alive and well.

One moment that really resonated with me was visiting the Priscilla Catacombs. Walking through those cold, dim passageways, I felt connected to the countless martyrs who lived and died for the faith. Their courage reminded me that my own call as a missionary is to embrace what the Church calls “white martyrdom” — persevering daily in faith, even through hardship.

Another highlight was the Evening Prayer Vigil with Pope Leo. The grandeur of the choir and orchestra, the stirring Jubilee Hymn, Il Volo’s breathtaking Magnificat, and the deep silence during Adoration all created one of the most powerful prayer experiences of my life.

Perhaps the greatest lesson I brought home was about prayer itself. I often question whether I am “praying right,” but I came to see that God doesn’t ask for perfection — He asks for honesty. As Fr. Matthew reminded me, the question isn’t, “Am I praying right?” The question is, “Am I praying?” Even my distractions, frustrations, and weaknesses are offerings the Lord desires when I give them sincerely.

This pilgrimage is one I will treasure for the rest of my life. Moving forward, I want to live more deeply in friendship with Christ, remembering that His love is not something I have to earn. I hope to grow in intentionality in prayer, lifting up my family, friends, and supporters, and entrusting each day more fully to Him.

God doesn’t ask for perfection — He asks for honesty.

—Alex, FOCUS missionary