A Reflection from the Cloister
As a nun in a Cistercian monastery, one of the most profound aspects of our daily life is the practice of intercessory prayer. Each day, amidst the rhythm of our prayers, silence, and work, we are constantly reminded that we are not alone in this journey of faith. Our prayer life is not simply about personal growth or seeking God for ourselves; it is deeply intertwined with the needs, hopes, and struggles of the world outside these cloister walls.
Intercessory prayer—praying on behalf of others—is at the heart of what it means to live in community with the Church and all humanity. Even though our lives may appear quiet and withdrawn from the world, we are spiritually united with all who seek God's grace, peace, and healing. In the depths of this monastic silence, we listen and respond to the cries of those who cannot always find the words themselves.
What is Intercessory Prayer?
Intercessory prayer is the act of bringing the needs and intentions of others before God, asking for His intervention, mercy, and grace on their behalf. It reflects a spirit of love, compassion, and solidarity, rooted in the belief that our prayers can make a real difference in the lives of others. When we pray for someone else, we become channels of God’s grace, standing in the gap, so to speak, and asking God to bless, protect, and guide those we lift up in prayer.
In our Cistercian tradition, prayer is seen as an essential means of union with God. When we intercede for others, we bring their needs into this sacred space, trusting that God’s mercy extends beyond the walls of our enclosure, touching lives in ways we may never see. The very essence of this prayer is an act of love—a deep expression of care and concern for the well-being of others, offered in humility and trust.
The Communal Dimension of Intercessory Prayer
In our monastery, intercessory prayer is not just an individual act but a communal one. Every day during the Divine Office, we offer prayers for the Church, the world, and specific intentions that have been entrusted to us. These might be requests from family members, friends, or even complete strangers who write to us, asking for prayer. In this way, the community becomes a bridge between the suffering and hopes of the world and the loving presence of God.
During these times of prayer, I am often struck by the profound responsibility we carry as intercessors. It is a humbling experience to lift others’ burdens, trusting that God hears each whispered petition, each cry for help, and each desire for healing. Whether we are praying for peace in war-torn countries, healing for the sick, or comfort for those grieving, we know that our prayers, though hidden and quiet, are part of the larger body of Christ, working for good.
Trusting in God's Will
One of the most challenging aspects of intercessory prayer is the mystery of God’s will. We pray with full confidence that God hears us, but we also know that His ways are not our ways. There are times when the answer to our prayers does not align with what we hoped for or envisioned. In these moments, we are called to surrender—trusting that God, in His infinite wisdom and love, is working in ways that we cannot always see or understand.
As Cistercians, we are taught to live in this tension between asking fervently for what we believe is good and trusting in God’s ultimate plan. In the silence of the cloister, we learn to cultivate patience and a deep sense of peace, knowing that God’s timing is perfect, even when we are eager for immediate answers.
The Transformative Power of Intercession
One of the unexpected gifts of intercessory prayer is the way it transforms us. When we pray for others, especially those we may not know personally, we begin to experience a broader, more compassionate heart. We learn to love more deeply, as we carry the concerns of the world in our hearts. Interceding for others teaches us to step outside of our own needs and desires, to make space for the suffering, joy, and hopes of others. It creates in us a sense of unity with the entire body of Christ, reminding us that we are all interconnected in the love of God.
I’ve found that over time, intercessory prayer softens the soul. It creates a habit of selflessness and opens us to the needs of the world around us. In praying for others, we become more aware of our shared humanity and of the ways in which we are all dependent on God’s grace.
A Call to All
You don’t have to live in a monastery to practice intercessory prayer. Whether you are busy with family life, work, or other responsibilities, you can create moments in your day to lift up the needs of others. It may be as simple as offering a prayer for a friend in distress, a neighbor who is ill, or for peace in the world. These moments, however brief, are powerful acts of love that contribute to the healing of the world.
As you pray, remember that God does not ask for perfection or eloquence in our prayers—He asks for sincerity and love. Whether your prayers are whispered in the quiet of your heart or spoken aloud, they are heard. Trust that God, in His infinite mercy, receives each prayer and responds with the love and wisdom that only He can give.
Conclusion
Intercessory prayer is a profound gift. It connects us to God and to one another in a bond of love that transcends physical distance. For us in the monastery, it is a vital part of our spiritual life—a daily practice of bringing the world’s needs before God, trusting in His mercy and goodness. But it is not only for monks and nuns. Each one of us is called to intercede for others, to be a vessel of God’s grace and compassion in a world in need of His healing touch.
As we pray for others, we participate in the work of Christ, who continually intercedes for us before the Father. And in that prayer, we discover the beauty of living not for ourselves, but for the love of God and the service of all His people.
May we never underestimate the power of prayer. And may we all grow in love as we offer our hearts and voices in intercession for a world that so desperately needs it.
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