The Ora Pro Nobis Ministry: The Blessings of Prayer That Unite Us All

Some of us have busy schedules that don’t allow much time for church ministry. For others, leaving home isn’t a possibility, so volunteering at church is tough. But every single one of us has time and space to pray. So, the Ora Pro Nobis Ministry is available and accessible to all. Ministry members offer themselves for any requests that hit their email inbox. And it doesn’t matter where the person lives or their religion — members pray for everyone.

The Ora Pro Nobis Ministry is simple, says Administrative Manager Joe Buckman, who helps coordinate this ministry. People email with their prayer requests, and he emails them out to more than 80 ministry members. It is helpful when people write the prayer request as they want it shared with others. As we approach Lent, getting involved in this ministry is one way to increase prayer time. Praying for the intentions takes only a few moments. In fact, ora pro nobis is Latin for “pray for us.”

“When I receive a request, I stop right away and pray a Hail Mary,” Joe says.

Not only is this a perfect ministry for those who are busy or homebound, but it’s also a fantastic way to show hospitality. We are showing that people at the Cathedral want to lift up others in prayer.

“This ministry has benefits to you and the person needing the prayers,” Joe says.

Because the person needing prayer might be in a dire situation, Joe tries to get the prayer request out as soon as he can. He invites all of us to contact him if we know someone in need of prayers. The person needing prayers can remain anonymous.

“God knows who it’s for, so that shouldn’t hinder folks from having someone prayed for,” Joe says. “God knows the details of what the prayers are for.”

There is power in numbers. With more than 80 people praying, Joe believes God hears the prayers.

There are a few other in-person prayer groups at the Cathedral that parishioners have organized, including a children’s Rosary. One benefit of the Ora Pro Nobis Ministry is they were able to continue during the pandemic since they don’t meet.

Joe would love to find someone to take over this ministry to help, as he has many other responsibilities at the Cathedral. With all the ways he’s been blessed, Joe knows it’s important for him to offer up prayers for others, and it’s a way for him to be aware of the needs of others.

“This is a way to develop our faith in the Body of Christ,” he says. “It unites us as a church across physical boundaries. We are all united in our sufferings and humanness.”

If you would like to submit a prayer request or be added to the list of ministry members, please contact Joe Buckman at CTKoffice@cdlex.org.

Children gather for the Children’s Rosary at the Cathedral.