The Healing Journey

October 21, 2024

Pope Francis’ Five-Finger Prayer

(The Five Finger Prayer by Pope Francis is an easy prayer to remember. The Pontiff wrote it when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires. It became very popular, and today, people all over the world use it because if helps them focus on praying.)

“Using your fingers, start with the thumb and pray these intentions in this order:

1. The thumb is closest finger to you. So start praying for those who are closest to you. They are the persons easiest to remember. To pray for our dear ones is a “sweet obligation.”
2. The next finger is the index. Pray for those who teach you, instruct you and heal you. They need the support and wisdom to show direction to others. Always keep them in your prayers.
3. The following finger is the tallest. It reminds us of our leaders, the governors and those who have authority. They need God’s guidance.
4. The fourth finger is the ring finger. Even though it may surprise you, it is our weakest finger. It should remind us to pray for the weakest, the sick or those plagued by problems. They need your prayers.
5. And finally we have our smallest finger, the smallest of all. Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. When you are done praying for the other four groups, you will be able to see your own needs but in the proper perspective, and also you will be able to pray for your own needs in a better way.”

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