Pastoral Pearls: Prayer Works
Prayers work wonders, and are so powerful, it is true! People from Guardian Angels are so incredibly devoted to
praying for those – especially in our community – who are in need of prayers. It is one thing we can always do for one another, when we cannot think of anything else to do. And it is not a minor thing, to be down-played. Literally miracles happen because of prayer. And people’s hearts are touched and warmed by knowing people pray for them or their loved ones.
Lois and Bob Dreher have asked that their sons, Steve and Joe, be mentioned by name in the Prayers of the Faithful, as well as the Bulletin’s “Prayers Requested.” Each had a separate, but very real need for prayers, regarding health issues. Lois and Bob have now asked to convey their deepest “Thanks” to all who did pray for Steve and Joe, as each of their health issues have improved so drastically! Lois and Bob are extremely grateful for those who took the time to include their sons in their prayers – something so very meaningful to them.
When we put names in our Prayers of the Faithful at Masses, we are able to convey to our community that these folks need our prayers. So, our people start praying.
We need to limit the time we announce any given name to two weeks, to make room for more people to be prayed for. After 2 weeks people know to pray for those people. When we take them out of the Prayers of the Faithful, we put them into the Book of Prayers over by the candles in our prayer corner in the gathering space.
Please visit this Book of Prayers occasionally to know who you can be praying for. Same with the “Prayers Requested” section in the Bulletin. We can keep names in that box for up to 3 months, after which time they will be moved to the Book of Prayers. We can keep praying for those people, but this frees up bulletin space for more names of people for whom we can pray. And it is important that we remember how big our God really is – God already knows who needs what, and will always take good care of them. Our prayers especially show the faith that we have in God’s mercy and power. So keep praying – feel the power – know the importance to those we are praying for – and trust in God’s ongoing care for each and every one of us, especially those with great need.
Loving God,
thank you for giving us Prayer
as a means by which we can show you we believe in your great power and loving care,
as well as hold up the needs of those in our community.
May we trust that once we do this,
these people are in your hands and will be given your loving care.
May we remember that we do not control you by praying,
but only ask that you care for people we care about, in their need.
Thank you for your compassion.
~ Amen