THE AMAZING POWER OF PRAYER
THE AMAZING POWER OF PRAYER By the Rev. Canon Dr. Winfred Vergara, Missioner for Asiamerica Ministries in the Episcopal Church (Based in New York City) Introduction An acolyte asked his priest, “Father, how do we make holy water?” The priest replied, “we boil the hell out of it.” Another acolyte said, “Father, can you teach me how to pray effectively?” The priest said, “Ok, I’ll teach you how to pray effectively.” The priest then brought him to a swimming pool and pushed him to the deeper part. The acolyte flapped his arms, kicked his feet to stay afloat and shouted “OMG! Help me! Help me!” The priest then said, “When you pray, pray as if your life depends on it!” Of course, I would not push any of my acolytes to the pool but it is amazing that a wide spectrum of people today are turning to prayer as a way of keeping them hopeful to stay alive, healthy and safe from COVID 19. Almost every day, I receive requests for prayers: healing for those who are sick, salvation from h