Chapter 4: Signs of Holiness in Today’s World

Prayer of supplication is an expression of a heart that trusts in God and realizes that of itself it can do nothing. The life of God’s faithful people is marked by constant supplication born of faith-filled love and great confidence. Let us not downplay prayer of petition which so often calms our hearts and helps us persevere in hope. Prayer of intercession has particular value, for it is an act of trust in God, at the same time, an expression of love for our neighbor.

Intercessory prayer is an expression of our fraternal concern for others, since we are able to embrace their lives, their deepest troubles and their loftiest dreams. Of those who commit themselves generously to intercessory prayer we can apply the words of Scripture, “This is a man who loves the brethren and prays much for the people.”