Devotions are non-liturgical rituals and similar prayers. They are called "popular" devotions because they often appeal to ordinary people and are adopted spontaneously. Devotions are optional for Catholics. While devotions can be helpful, they are not usually the mainstay of a balanced spiritual life. The sacraments and the discipline of the universal Church come first. It is also hard to imagine someone who, for example, makes novenas in honor of one saint, goes to Mass, and never prays in any other way. Although devotions are optional, that does not mean that "anything goes". We must avoid anything superstitious. Before taking up a prayer or practice we ought to ask whether it will strengthen our faith in God.