(often + for/to) to speak to God or a god aloud or in thought, e.g. making a request or confession, giving thanks or praise, etc
(usu + for) to wish or hope fervently
to appeal to (somebody) earnestly or humbly; esp to call on (God or a god) in a prayer
I pray God they are safe
to wish or hope fervently for (something)
We all hope and pray it won't happen
[Middle English prayen via Old French preier from Latin precari, from prec-, prex request, prayer]