The Catholic Church recognizes several forms and expressions of prayer, as outlined in the Catechism:

**Forms of Prayer:**
- Blessing and Adoration: Acknowledging God's greatness.
- Petition: Asking for needs, including forgiveness.
- Intercession: Praying for others.
- Thanksgiving: Gratitude for God's gifts.
- Praise: Glorifying God for who He is.

**Expressions of Prayer:**
- Vocal: Spoken words, like the Our Father.
- Meditation: Reflecting on Scripture or truths.
- Contemplative: Silent union with God.

- Liturgical: Official Church prayers like the Mass and Liturgy of the Hours (CCC 1174-1178).
- Devotional: Practices such as the Rosary, novenas, or Stations of the Cross.
- Spontaneous: Informal, heartfelt prayers.
- Mental: Involves interior reflection, overlapping with meditation and contemplation.
- Ejaculatory: Brief, fervent invocations (e.g., "Lord Jesus, have mercy").

For depth, see CCC 2650-2696

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