Looking for a simple way to teach young athletes to pray? We're a fan of the simple 5 Finger Prayer method advocated by Pope Francis. Use the five fingers on your hand to go through the following prayer. You can do this as a team or individually with your own intentions.
The thumb is the 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.”
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.
The following finger is the tallest. It reminds us of our leaders, the governors and those who have authority. They need God’s guidance.
The fourth finger is the ring finger. Even that 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.
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.
