Fr. Bob's Reflection for the Seventh Sunday of Easter - micheletkearney@gmail.com - Gmail

College football fans may remember Grant Teaff, the longtime coach at Baylor University, who once wrote a book titled “I Believe.” In the book, he describes a powerful moment from earlier in his career at McMurry College. One Saturday night, Teaff and his team boarded a charter plane heading back to Texas. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft developed serious mechanical trouble. The pilot announced that an emergency landing would be necessary. To make matters worse, the plane was carrying a heavy fuel load, increasing the risk of an explosion. As the plane descended rapidly, one of the players turned to Teaff and said, “Coach, we’re frightened. Would you lead us in prayer?” From his seat, Teaff prayed out loud, so that all could hear. Moments later, the plane hit the ground, skidding across it as sparks flew past the windows. Miraculously, it did not explode. No one was injured. The following evening, Teaff attended church with his family. In the middle of the service, he quietly slipped out. He walked about a mile to the McMurry Fieldhouse, and he knelt down and prayed: “God, I know You have a plan, a purpose and a will for my life – and for the lives of these young men. I do not know what it is. But I will try to impress upon them, this year and always, that there is more to life than football – that You truly have a purpose for our lives.” This story beautifully reflects the theme of prayer found in today’s readings, highlighting three distinct settings in which prayer unfolds. First, there is personal prayer, as seen when Coach Teaff prays alone in the fieldhouse. Second, there is prayer in a small group, like the players and coach praying together in a moment of fear. And finally, there is communal prayer, represented by gathering in church with others. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus Himself prays in each of these ways. He often withdraws to pray alone, like when He spent the night in prayer before choosing His Apostles. He prays in smaller groups, such as when He brings Peter, James and John up the mountain before the Transfiguration. And He joins in communal prayer, regularly attending the synagogue on the Sabbath. So, what does this mean for us? It reminds us that prayer is meant to be a regular and natural part of life, taking place in different settings and moments. It also shows us that while communal prayer often follows familiar forms, like the “Our Father” at Mass, personal prayer invites a deeper, more intimate conversation with God. In those quiet moments, we can speak to the Lord openly and honestly, as we would to a close friend. We can bring Him our concerns, our gratitude, our questions. We might reflect on a passage of Scripture, walking through it slowly with Him. But just as importantly, we must also learn to be still – to listen, and to allow space for God to speak to our hearts. St. Teresa of Ávila once said that in prayer, she did not try to imagine what God looked like, but simply remained aware of His nearness. So, my friends, let us remember: in prayer, what matters most is not the eloquence of our words, but the sincerity of our love. It is the love that rises from the heart that makes our prayer real and draws us ever closer to God. Yours in Christ, Fr. Robert Warren, S.A. Spiritual Director