Ask a Priest

Q: I'm having trouble with distractions, during prayer and during Mass. I just struggle sometimes to stay focused. Does this happen or has this happened to you? Is this somewhat natural? Any tips on better ways to stay focused?

Anonymous

A: Struggling with distractions is a common experience for many of us. I know that for myself that this has been a struggle for me my whole life, even as a priest.

I think for many of us this is a natural occurrence. If we are having trouble focusing at home, school or at work, it’s only natural that we would have those struggles elsewhere.

I think there are many tips and tricks we can follow or use to help stay better focused in Mass. I think the first is just say a prayer at the beginning of mass, "Lord, help me to be able to focus on your glory during this time and hear you speak to me today through the scripture." Doesn't always keep me focused but has a high success rate.

I've also found that repeating some sort of short prayer such as, "Lord let me see you in this Mass," was also beneficial before I was ordained when trying to focus during the consecration.

Everyone's minds work differently, so feel free to play around and find what works for you. But there is nothing to be ashamed about. This is a struggle many of us have, including me.

Father William Banowsky
Pastor, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Mustang​