Catholics only , please

[ilovepcot]

I know this thread said "Catholics only" but I'm going to butt my big 'ole butt right in here.

Just wanted to say that when I was doing nursing with the terminally ill, nurses, friends and family members would often have a cloth blessed and give to the patient for comfort. You could actually *see* right before your eyes the transformation that would come about with the patient. Yes, just *believing* made all the difference to them. Those who had pain that meds weren't alleviating began to ease significantly, those who feared death suddenly didn't feel as afraid. There's definitely something to faith and believing and the prayer cloth was an "instrument" in bringing this about. And no, none of these people were Catholic nor am I, so sorry for butting in.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Interesting all the nurses on this thread. Minkydog, I take care of patients just like your Dad. That is an amazing story.

 

[disykat]

Another non Catholic here. We have a prayer shawl ministry at our church. The idea that people have prayed over it and lovingly made it to comfort you in your time of need is very moving. How better to experience the love of God than through the loving touch of others?

I have also made quilts through Project Linus to be given to kids in times of trauma - a very similar idea, but not necessarily with religious connotations.

 

[Disney Doll]

I would imagine that if you practice a religion that believes in the power of prayer, whether it be Catholic or some other religion, then having something that folks have prayed over and that has been blessed in your religion's traditions would be very comforting.

At least that has been my experience. I have yet to see anyone refuse to accept a prayer shawl, and there is a visible change in the person's/family's demeanor when they get it.

IMHO, it is a wonderful program.

 

[llij]

I've never heard of that either, but I think it's beautiful.

A couple of years ago, my mom had heart surgery with a very bleak outlook. They told us it could be a matter of weeks, maybe months before she passed. I will never forget having the conversation with Dad about what to do when she goes. Chilling to even think about now.

After that, Mom went in and out of the hospital several times, usually once every couple of months. Mom went to Reconciliation at Christmastime and had a long talk with her priest. She told me the other day that she hasn't felt this good in years.

He didn't "heal" her, only promised to pray for her. And for her, that was enough. This past Sunday, we went to Mass where Mom and Dad received a blessing for their 50th Anniversary. The priest laid his hands on Mom, leaned down and whispered "I'm so glad you're still here to celebrate with us". She was walking on cloud nine the rest of the day.

Sometimes all it takes is for others to believe strong enough, and the folks who are sick will too.

What a beautiful story!

I had never heard of the pillows with holy images or the prayer shawls, but I think that is wonderful!

 

[drakethib]

Never heard of it but I have had cookies and treats blessed by the priest before.