What are prayer intentions?

"The Lord tells us: 'The first task in life is this: prayer.' But not the prayer of words, like a parrot; but the prayer of the heart: gazing on the Lord, hearing the Lord, asking the Lord," said Pope Francis. "When coming from the heart, "we know that prayer works miracles."

"Prayer changes us -- our heart. It helps us better understand our God. This is why it is important to speak with the Lord, not with empty words, talk with [Him about] reality: 'Look, Lord, I have this problem, in my family, with my child, with this, with that ... What can you do? You cannot leave me like this!' This is prayer!" emphasizes the Holy Father.

In our hearts, we know prayer is powerful, and can help those in need, including ourselves. Sickness, mental anguish, tough decisions, job stress, marital disagreements, difficulty making ends meet... all of these problems we can lift up to God in prayer. (Of course we can also thank Him for blessings and prayers answered in prayer!)

Now if one person's prayers are powerful, imagine the power of hundreds of people's prayers! In Matthew 18:20, Jesus tells us, "For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst."

So how can I harness the power of our St. Josaphat Community to help me and my needs? There are three ways:

• Prayer Wall: Put your prayer request up on the St. Josaphat Prayer Wall

• Prayer List: Add a name to the Prayer List published in the bulletin

• Mass Intention: Have a Mass said for your living or deceased loved one/s

Have an extra minute? Please pray for the intentions that our St. Josaphat Community members hold in their hearts. Our parish thanks you!