Photo by Aachal on Unsplash
When the pandemic began, a group of us wanted to pray in a special way for all those suffering and dying. We decided to create a group call, so that together in unity we could pray for all those who are in need.
We join together each day by phone. We begin by sharing a Gospel phrase for the day, then a general prayer for the many needs during the pandemic, and finally we pray the rosary.
The group has expanded, and we have found that it has created a deep sense of family among us — sharing not only the sufferings, but also the joy of answers to prayers. Once a week, we come together on Zoom to see one another and to build on that relationship.
Because we pray not only for our needs, but also for those who have asked for our prayers and for all the various sufferings around the world, we feel a strong bond with the whole human family. It has been a real help during this time of isolation for many, giving everyone the assurance that we are not alone in our struggles. It has also given us the opportunity to carry each other’s burdens and to encourage one another.
Due to the intense pain from arthritis and the inability to get out, one person shared how this time together is the highlight of her day.
Another shared: “Some of us have friends and relatives in other countries. It is a privilege to unite our prayers with those on the other side of the world!”
One participant added, “The rosary time has been an oasis for me during the pandemic. I look forward to this break from the isolation of being home alone during the day. Our fellowship and prayers for the world and for the suffering people we know, putting all these in common as we turn in prayer to God, feels like a healing balm we are sending into humanity.”
Sometimes the prayers are answered in surprising ways, as when a homeless family we prayed for, for months, finally found an apartment and were given everything they needed and more through the generosity of the community.
