Power of Prayer

My name is Jeff and I was a member of CRHP 2, and the CRHP 3 formation team.  Shortly after my CRHP experience, I became really ill (Viral Spinal Meningitis). On the Sunday after Thanksgiving 2010, my CRHP brothers held a prayer service, said a Rosary, and within an hour after the prayer service was complete, my 104 degree temperature began to break, and 6 days later I was released from the hospital (much to the surprise of my doctors). My mother visiting from out of town was amazed by the support and visits from my CRHP brothers and the faith that they showed, and the support they displayed to me and my wife Terri.

My entire family heard the story of my recovery and the amazing men that had my back throughout the entire ordeal. They heard the story from me, from my wife, and especially from my mom. She told everyone about the incredible level of prayer and support, and was renewed in her own faith by the actions of these men.

Since that time, my brother and his wife had their first baby. The baby had some difficulty during delivery, and was admitted to the NICU. My brother (who has had his ups and downs with his faith and the church) called me, and asked me to pray for my nephew. I asked him if I could share the story with my CRHP brothers and include them in the prayer train to ask the Lord to help my nephew fight his way back to health. He agreed, and I instantly got on the phone and email, and all of the CRHP family responded and let me know, that they were adding their prayers to help. Within a couple of weeks my nephew was home and he has been a healthy bundle of joy ever since.

I want you to know that our faith is a form of evangelism. We are changing the faith lives of people all over the country. My siblings were raised Catholic, but were at varying levels in their own faith journeys. I want to make sure that you know that our faith in the power of prayer is, increasing the faith that others have in the power of prayer.

Now I know that Evangelism isn't a concept that we as Catholics often consider, but this is exactly what is happening. Your faith, your prayers, your willingness to share your faith journey with your families, your small church communities, and with our complete Good Shepherd family is Evangelism in its truest form. You are making our community a shining example of faith that is becoming known across the country.

I am proud to be part of this faith team, and I thank you for your prayers.