What is the Ministry of Praise? (continued)
Candidates for baptism in the RCIA program often feel a special bond of affection for ministers of praise who are daily praying for them as they make their journey to the Lord. Confirmation is a time when many parishes try to teach their young parishioners about service. To have a minister praying for them teaches them that service is not just doing physical things but also includes spiritual endeavors. Couples getting married in the parish are also targets for the ministers of praise. With so many material concerns dominating weddings these days, it is appropriate to emphasize the spiritual dimensions of this sacrament.
The sick of the parish have a special place in the Ministry of Praise. Since the letter from the pastor or parish staff comes monthly, it is possible to keep the prayer list of the sick up-to-date. Many a current minister of praise was introduced into this ministry by the prayers offered by other when they were ill. Prayers for the repose of the souls of the dead are part of a long tradition in the church dating back to the time of Christ. We hope others will pray for us when our time comes. Ministers of praise provide this service for the deceased of their parishes now.
"Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it will be opened unto you." Prayers of petition and prayers of intercession are mandated by our Lord. But a well-rounded prayer life also includes prayers of repentance and thanksgiving. All prayers must include praise of our God who loves and cares for us so much. That is why this ministry is called the MINISTRY OF PRAISE.