Vocal prayer is that prayer which uses words cast in a set form and commonly employed in that form such as the prayers in the Mass, hymns, psalms, prayers written by saints, or novenas for specific purposes. Mental prayer is that form of prayer in which one does not recite a fixed form of prayer. This prayer springs from the personal efforts of the one praying and the workings of grace. Discursive prayer is that in which an idea or a divine truth taught by Christ or his church is considered and closely examined in the mind. At its conclusion practical applications for our lives are made.
Affective prayer is more a movement of the heart.
One s heart spontaneously reacts by a flowing of love for some mystery or item of faith which has been understood previously or accepted and analyzed in terms of its significance or consequences. An example would be looking at a crucifix and reacting with a deeply felt My Lord and my God. Contemplative prayer is passive prayer because it is initiated by God. It can range from a quiet awareness of his presence to the mystical union. There are several stages of contemplative prayer.