Let Us Pray

Dear Friends,

I truly believe in the power of prayer. Whether I’m praying for someone else or for myself, I have confidence that God will answer in the perfect way. It may not always be the answer I want, but I trust, as we read in Matthew 7:9–11, that it will be just what I need.

“Which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” —Matthew 7:9–11

Jesus taught us The Lord’s Prayer as a model, but prayer can take many forms—whether for a few moments or for hours.

For many years, I’ve used what I call the “hand method” as a simple guide to help me stay focused during prayer. Here’s how it works: Place your hands together in front of you, palms flat and thumbs facing you. Each finger represents a different focus for your prayer:

• Thumb – Closest to you. Pray for those who are closest to you: family members and loved ones. Someone once said, “Prayer is the most important thing you can do for the most important people in your life.”

• Pointer finger – Pray for those who teach, guide, and instruct: clergy, Sunday School teachers, and mentors.

• Middle finger – The tallest. Pray for those in leadership: our Rector, the President, public officials, and your workplace leaders.

• Ring finger – The weakest. Pray for those who are sick, vulnerable, or in need.

• Pinky finger – The last. Pray for yourself and your own needs last.

I hope this method is as helpful and encouraging to you as it has been to me, as we seek to follow the command in 1 Thessalonians to “pray without ceasing.”

And a reminder: we would love to have you join us for Morning Prayer in the choir pews, Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 to 8:45 a.m. There is no better way to start your day than with prayer.

Blessings,

Joseph E. Sanelli

Parish Administrator