In observing the life of the early Church, we see the Apostle Peter praying during the sixth hour. With the Apostle John, he goes to the Temple on the ninth hour. With prayer the eleven Apostles elect Mathias to replace Judas Iscariot. The seven deacons are elected by prayer. After intense prayer Peter is released from the prison, as are the apostles Paul and Silas.
The Apostle Paul speaks often about prayer with particular warmth. He says that prayer should be
“unceasing,” that we should pray “at al times.” This is emphasized when he notes that the time of prayer is
“both day and night.” To receive the blessing of seeing the Thessalonians, St. Paul prayed “more than abundantly.”
For his personal il ness, he “petitioned the Lord three times.” What could be the meaning of this “three times?” It may refer to three long periods of persistent and fervent prayer. Or it may relate to repeated prayers, as suggested by his interpreters, that were answered with the affirmation that one is strengthened and perfected through suffering.
The humility of the great apostle makes him ask for the prayers of others as he finds himself in various needs. When St. Paul began the tremendous struggle of his public preaching he used to say: “I am the least of the faithful,” and at the end of his ministry, he would say: “I am the first of sinners.” Throughout his letters one encounters his constant prayerful thanksgiving for the abundant blessings of God.
In the Acts of the Apostles it is reported that when the first Christians prayed together they raised their hands, they knelt, and they sang psalms. Communal prayer is far more powerful than personal prayer, as affirmed by St. John Chrysostom, because God wants to hear the petitions of many who pray together in the name of Christ. Together during Church services we can attract the mercy of God more effectively than as individuals. There we are joined in the “bond of love” and gathered “for the same reason” - to pray – and to be heard more quickly by god. And our prayers are particularly effective when faith and virtue adorn us, the faithful, laity and clergy united in Christ, in one indivisible body – the Church.
The prayers of others are particularly helpful when we too participate. We should not expect significant results from the prayers of others if we ourselves are not actively involved. Prayers for others are appropriate and should be offered, especial y when requested of us. And we should ask for the prayer of the saints, but we should be prepared to exert ourselves as wel and not to expect everything from them. Holiness is not contagious in a passive way. The saints both censure us and strengthen, but their prayers wil be more decisive as we participate more ful y.