Introduction to the Devout Life. Francis de Sales

could not secure a time so free from interruption at home.

      5. Begin all prayer, whether mental or vocal, by an act of the presence of God. If you observe this rule strictly, you will soon see how useful it is.

      6. It may help you to say the Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, etc., in Latin, but you should also study them diligently in your own language, so as thoroughly to gather up the meaning of these holy words, which must be used to fix your thoughts steadily on their intention, not striving to say many words but seeking to say a few with your whole heart. One Our Father said devoutly is worth more than many prayers hurried over.