Hallow prayer app review: What to expect before you download

When I discovered the Hallow app in early 2023 after seeing ads with Mark Wahlberg and Jonathan Roumie, I actually had it on my phone for a long time before I started using it regularly. I initially downloaded it thinking I'd use it throughout the day, but found it works best for me as part of my bedtime routine.

As the "#1 Catholic App," it caught my eye since I was looking for ways to strengthen my faith and find some peace in my busy life. Created in 2018 by Alex Jones, Erich Kerekes, and Alessandro DiSanto, Hallow has grown huge. By 2022, it had over two million downloads, and I'm sure that number is much higher now in March 2025. After using it on and off for months, I want to share what I like, what could be better, and if it's worth paying for.

It is something of a paradox that in seeking to escape the world's endless distractions (mainly caused by technology), I found myself turning to yet another app. But then again, perhaps the modern soul requires modern tools to rediscover ancient truths.

Why I was interested

I always wanted to structure my prayers better, as I often rushed through them and found myself repeating the same things. Hallow showed up as a Catholic prayer and meditation app that didn't feel bloated or too one-dimensional. It shows you what a proper prayer can look like, with different formats and approaches to talking with God.

I was skeptical at first because I thought using a smartphone would be distracting during prayer time. I worried I'd be tempted to check messages or social media instead of focusing on prayer. Being somewhat of a traditionalist when it comes to praying, I initially felt that prayer should involve physical rosary beads, actual books, and quiet spaces, not screens and headphones. But the app's design actually helps keep me focused and has changed my perspective.

Getting started

When I downloaded Hallow, I found it easy to set up with lots of options. It's mainly audio prayers and meditations with an extraorinary variety. I started with the Rosary and Lectio Divina (a way of reading scripture deeply), and connected them to church seasons like Lent or Advent. The daily Gospel readings quickly became part of my routine. With over 10,000 sessions available, I could choose a quick five-minute prayer about joy or an hour-long reflection. I mostly stuck to 10-minute sessions.

The "Bible in a Year" with Fr. Mike Schmitz became one of my favorites. I knew him from Ascension Presents on YouTube and was surprised to find him on Hallow as well. I also tried "Catechism in a Year" for learning more about the faith. I could pick different guides (Jonathan Roumie's voice is my favorite, he is the main actor of The Chosen) and add Gregorian chants for atmosphere. Being able to download sessions for offline use was really helpful when my internet was bad.

The "Hallow Family" feature lets users share prayer intentions with others, which feels meaningful when you can't get to church. And those bedtime Bible stories narrated by Mark Wahlberg have become a good way to end the day. The soothing narration makes it perfect for nighttime prayer and reflection. After each session, you can write a few notes in the app's journal to remember your thoughts. The various voices, from celebrities to priests like Bishop Barron, made it feel like having a spiritual mentor right in my ear.

The Cost

I started with the free version, which offers daily prayers and a nine-day starter challenge. This got me hooked, but the best features like "Bible in a Year" or offline mode required a subscription. I chose the $69.99 yearly plan (about $5.83 monthly), though there's also a $9.99 monthly option. Keep an eye out for 90-day trial offers. Canceling is simple through your phone settings, which was a relief after having trouble canceling another app subscription in the past.

What I love about It

I never run out of content with Hallow. Quick prayers for busy mornings, longer ones for quiet evenings. It fits whatever time I have, even though I used it mostly in the evening. The audio quality is excellent, and voices like Roumie's calm tone or Wahlberg's deeper voice paired with gentle music draw me in every time.

I appreciate that priests and scholars review the content. The reminders and streak features have transformed my prayer habits. Something I always struggled with before. Beyond faith benefits, it helps with relaxation and better sleep. It's been like medicine for the soul.

What Could Be Better

The $70 yearly fee made me hesitate at first. It's worth it to me now, but I understand why some people stick with free apps like iBreviary. The navigation can be confusing sometimes. I finish a prayer, and suddenly I'm back at the home screen, struggling to find what to do next.

One narrator's voice was unsettling to me (too whisper-like), so I switched guides, though I wish there were more voice options. The free version shows you all the premium content but locks most of it away, which feels like a tease until you pay. Also, since I'm trying to use my phone less, praying through it seems contradictory, but I've gotten used to the audio format.

Daily Use

I almost exclusively use Hallow before going to bed. It's become an essential part of my nighttime routine. The sleep stories and evening prayers help calm my mind and prepare me for rest. I was new to practices like Lectio Divina, and the app's gentle guidance in those quiet bedtime moments helped me learn.

There are occasional problems though. Offline mode crashed once, forcing me to redownload content, but it was not that bad.

My overall rating

Hallow can strengthen faith in unexpected ways. Users often report they're praying with more meaning and purpose. It can become an anchor in a chaotic world. Many people online say it rekindled their faith or helped them through difficult times. For many, it brings a gradual, quiet change. Less stress, better focus, and a real sense of God's presence.

I'd give Hallow 4.5 out of 5 stars. The price, occasional navigation issues, and phone dependency are drawbacks, but it has truly changed how I pray.

If you're curious about faith or just need some calm in your life, give it a try. A trial period is low-risk, and if you like it, the yearly plan is the best value. It's perfect for Catholics or any Christian or spiritual seeker open to guided prayers. In the end, what started as a simple app on my phone has transformed into a portable monastery.