Complete Guide to Adoration

Eucharistic Adoration is the act of worshipping God as He is present in the consecrated Eucharist. Whether the Blessed Sacrament is exposed in a monstrance or hidden in the tabernacle, spending time before Him is a powerful way to grow in holiness.

What is a Holy Hour?

Fulton Sheen popularized the idea of a daily "Holy Hour." It recalls Jesus' question in Gethsemane: "Could you not watch one hour with me?" (Matthew 26:40). It is a time set aside—usually 60 minutes—dedicated solely to prayer in His presence.

What Do I Do?

Many people are afraid to go to Adoration because they don't know what to do. The most important thing is simply to be there.

1. Silence

The first 10-15 minutes can be spent just quieting your mind. Leave your phone in the car or on airplane mode. Let the dust of the world settle.

"I look at Him and He looks at me." — St. John Vianney

2. ACTS Prayer Method

If you need structure, use ACTS:

• A - Adoration: Praise God for who He is. "Lord, You are the Creator, the Almighty..."
• C - Contrition: Ask forgiveness for your sins.
• T - Thanksgiving: Thank Him for specific blessings.
• S - Supplication: Ask for what you need and intercede for others.

3. Spiritual Reading

Bring a Bible, a spiritual book (like Imitation of Christ), or the lives of the Saints. Read a short passage and then meditate on it.

4. Pray the Rosary

The Rosary is excellent for Adoration. Contemplating the mysteries of Christ's life while in His presence is very powerful.

5. Just Sit

You don't always have to "do" something. Think of it like sitting with a best friend or a spouse. You can just enjoy each other's company in silence. This is called contemplative prayer.

Practical Tips

• Genuflect on two knees (if possible) when the Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the monstrance.
• Dress modestly out of reverence.
• If you get distracted, gently bring your mind back to Jesus. Don't get discouraged.
• Start small. If an hour is too hard, start with 15 minutes.

Go to Jesus. He is waiting for you in the Sacrament of Love.