Prayers and Thoughts is a devotional of reflections and prayers written for the healing, support and encouragement of the chronic and acutely ill and for their caregivers. Illness, suffering, pain, fatigue, exhaustion, fear, loss of hope, humiliation, offended pride, loneliness, and a host of other shared physical and spiritual afflictions draw patients and their caregivers together in the mysterious ways of grace and God. In their solidarity of spirit, both patient and caregiver yearn for healing. Prayers and Thoughts helps to satisfy their yearning. Each reflection and prayer speaks of hope and courage, of peace and of God's never-ending presence and love. They will heal the spirit. These prayers have been said in patient rooms. hallways, family rooms, meeting rooms, lobbies and operating rooms. Embedded in them is the belief that no matter the depth of mystery or confusion in a situation, God is always good and always near. These prayers have brought comfort and healing to many people. They have been printed in church bulletins and pinned to walls in patient rooms and meeting rooms. They have gone into surgery suites. In God's grace, share them with each other. I pray that Prayers and Thoughts will bring you healing and comfort. David Rapp is a retired hospital chaplain and an active Deacon in the Archdiocese of Seattle. He completed his Clinical Pastoral Education at Saint Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma, Washingon. He received his Masters in Pastoral Studies from Seattle University and post-graduate certificates in Pastoral Leadership and Spiritual Direction. He is board-certified by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. He is an avid writer and a painter.
