I've prayed to God in a lot of places...hospitals, in school before tests, at the dinner table, and in my bedroom before I go to sleep at night. But, I can honestly say that I've never prayed to Him before having sex. Bing! Bong! Bing!
But that's what the Catholic Church says couples should do. Hey, I am not kidding, here.
The prayer, which appears in the Prayer Book for Spouses, implores God 'to place within us love that truly gives, tenderness that truly unites, self-offering that tells the truth and does not deceive, forgiveness that truly receives, loving physical union that welcomes'. Oh, my
Now, I admit, I have never prayed before sex and there are some people who may say, "Don't knock it until you've tried it, maybe it will help focus you properly, and the experience will be better." O.K., I don't think so. A number of years ago, some well-meaning Christian told me to live each day as though Jesus were right beside me. So I tried it one day. I think I ended up asking the Saviour to leave the bedroom while I got undressed, so I don't think I want to chat with him prior to... well, you know.
I am also aware that screaming "Oh God!" while you are in bed isn't what they are looking for here, either. The thought is nice. God should be the center of our life and if you are conversing with Him on a regular basis, I don't think He'll mind waiting to speak with you until a little later.
Have fun. Be well.
