ASK, SEEK, KNOCK MINISTRY Offers Valuable Ways to Prayerfully Support Those in Need

Some of us have busy schedules that don’t allow much time for church ministry. For some of us, leaving our homes isn’t a possibility, so volunteering at church is a challenge. But every single one of us has time and space to pray. The new Ask, Seek, Knock Ministry is available to everyone. Through the ministry, prayer group members and individuals will receive prayer requests from our St. Philip Neri community and will be asked to pray in whatever way they choose.

Angela Barius receives the prayer requests to forward and coordinates with ministry members. After about a year of working on this ministry, she’s excited for it to get started. This ministry is one of hospitality. It’s a way to be there for people in need of prayers.

“People have to know that prayer is the only answer most of the time,” Angela says. “Jesus says, ‘Where two or more are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them.’”

According to the ministry’s mission, its members “commit ourselves to develop and sustain not only our own personal prayer lives but to bear the burdens of members of our parish community and beyond, through prayer.”

Angela wanted to get this ministry started because she knew it would be an opportunity to make an impact and show people the power of prayer. Those needing prayers can send Angela as much or as little information about their needs. Several prayer groups will be praying for the intentions.

“This ministry will make us a vehicle to make people feel better,” she says. “I want people to know they aren’t alone.”

Truly believing in the power of prayer, Angela prays the Rosary each day and many other prayers and novenas for the requests and needs of family members. She also spends time each week in Eucharistic Adoration. Now retired and having time to spend in prayer, Angela hopes to use this prayer time to impact others and let them know she’s there for them.

“Miracles happen every day,” Angela says. “The Lord will answer your prayers — just not necessarily in your time frame.”

If you would like to submit a prayer request or to join the ministry, please email Angela Barius at angelabarius@saintphilipneri.org.

Angela Barius looks forward to leading the new Ask, Seek, Knock Ministry