2 minute read
Prayer Network Ministry: A Blessing to All
Some of us have busy schedules that don’t allow much time for church ministry. And, for some of us, leaving our homes isn’t a possibility, so volunteering at church is tough. But every single one of us has time and space to pray. So our Prayer Network is available and accessible to all!
Jackie Pickering started the Prayer Network about five years ago. She has always received prayer requests from people, so she decided she wanted to get others involved. Currently, there are 12 members who take the time to pray for those in need.
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“When someone calls the parish with a prayer request, they call me,” Jackie says. “Then, I call the first one on the list and the last person calls me to let me know everyone has been reached.”
Parishioners are welcome to call Jackie or the parish office with prayer requests for a friend or relative. Jackie and the person making the request discuss how much information to reveal — often it is only a first name and the prayer request. Jackie says everyone in the Prayer Network is expected to keep what they hear confidential.
Prayers are offered up for one week — Prayer Network members will gladly continue to pray if another call is placed.
“This is a nice ministry for those who can’t leave home,” Jackie says. “All of us are older women, but anyone is welcome to be a part of this ministry.”
The ability to continue this ministry while at home has become even more important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict limitations on group gatherings in communities around the country. In turn, people have more time to pray, because many are at home more. And, what better time to be praying for people than during a global pandemic!
“With quarantine, everyone is home, so the prayer requests spread really quick,” Jackie says.
Through this ministry, Jackie really appreciates the ability to help those in need. She also points out that being a part of this ministry can, in turn, strengthen the faith life of those involved. Putting others first is what Jesus asks of us. Members also experience a connection to each other through this ministry. Even though the members don’t gather, they have a special bond by praying for someone in unison.
“This helps me feel a closeness to people in need of prayers,” Jackie says. “I feel we have continued from page 7 something in common. I am at home. I have plenty of time to pray and this is a way to help people.”
Jackie credits her strong faith to St. Anne. She was born and raised in the town of St. Anne, Ill., and her middle name is Anne, as well. And, when it comes to the Stewardship of Time — prayer — she emphasizes that it’s something in which we can all participate.
“We all have time to pray,” she says. “Anyone can be involved in this ministry.”
