In Simple Ways to Pray, Emilie Griffin offers her readers an intimate and accessible introduction to the history and practice of prayer in the Catholic tradition. Meaning both to engage the beginner and encourage the experienced, Griffin explores the different types, devotional styles and techniques of prayer as well as outlining practical strategies for starting and sustaining an interior spiritual life. Describing prayer as "that deep urgency or longing for something beyond–something greater than ourselves," Griffin extends an open and inclusive invitation to all readers to put themselves in the presence of God. And, by doing so, to open up their hands, minds and hearts to receive the full potential of God's love and know the richness of living an engaged spiritual life. This book is ideal for individual or group use in parishes and classrooms.

"Emilie Griffin is an intellectually and spiritually trustworthy guide to the deepest meaning of prayer, 'our yearning and our desire for God.' This modest book is rooted in theology and doctrine and, more importantly, suffused with a spirit of gratitude and humility. There is not one false note of pride to mar her praise of God, and it is this that confirms Emilie Griffin's authority. She writes from a soul formed by prayer, and her words reflect the adoration that is the true hallmark of a Catholic contemplative." - America: The Jesuit Review of Faith & Culture

"Griffin's work is a gentle and informative invitation to let down our guard. . . . Her descriptions of various types of prayer throughout the book are accessible for those with little background in Catholic prayer while maintaining a maturity and depth that can be appreciated by a seasoned Catholic. . . . Griffin's theological knowledge is apparent. . . . The spirit throughout Griffin's work is greatly appreciated. She walks the fine line of writing about the richness of the Catholic tradition while tending to the needs of readers with limited Catholic exposure with grace. . . . Griffin provides her readers with the perennial nudge that both novice and experienced Christians often need to dig deep and renew their spiritual journey once again." - The Journal of Catholic Education, March 2010