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Happening ... in the Local Church
I have heard it said that you should concentrate on praying well and often in order to store up prayers for when you need them most. I have spoken to individuals who told me how hard it was to pray when they were ill or in pain. I have read about the efficacy of prayers offered for those in need of physical healing. However, it was not until recently that I learned the truth of these statements.
Three months ago, I was rushed to the hospital emergency room and then into surgery. I was in a Catholic hospital and had the presence of mind to request a priest before being taken into the operating room. In the recovery room, I was thankful to be alive, but weak and disoriented. The thought of prayer crossed my mind — but I think that I did not offer so much as a Hail Mary for my safe delivery.
In fact, I was surprised that in the days that followed I seemed unable to pray. My whole focus was dealing with the pain and the overwhelming sense of helplessness. Prayer would not come. Why was it so hard to unite my suffering to the sufferings of Christ? In a vague way, I tried to take some comfort in remembering the times prior to this when I had prayed and attended Mass daily. I felt that the Lord knew my intentions and requests even though I could not form them.
Trapped in a hospital bed, one loses track of time and begins to give in to despair. There is a natural tendency to turn inward and shun all outside contact. It wasn’t until a dear friend came into my room and inquired if I was “on any prayer chains” that everything turned around for me. When I told him that no requests had gone out — he promised to get to work. Amazingly, within 30 minutes, my spirits lifted and my mind was no longer cloudy. The power of prayer was at work and I could actually feel the difference. My recovery started at that moment as the prayers of intercession soared to heaven. I recognized what was happening and was awestruck by the healing power of prayer.
There are some lessons to be learned about prayer from this experience.
First, pray always — it will make a difference during those times when you cannot. Second, realize that in times of illness or great pain, prayer may not come easy; however, one should not give in to the temptation not to pray. And, third, ask others to pray for you — in fact, ask them to pray unceasingly.
Remember that prayer is the foundation of our life!
This guest editorial was written by Anne Roat, director of the Pastoral Office for Catechesis.