- Established in 1911, Maryknoll's primary concern is the formation of Christian communities in mission areas, where missioners can run a variety of projects of spiritual and material development. Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, representing the tradition and diversity of the Roman Catholic Church in the United States, are bound by the singular purpose to live and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations and build a world where all peoples enjoy the blessings of God’s creation.
- First a mission statement for the new Prayer Guild was developed. "We are a Catholic community devoted to spiritual growth through prayer. Each month Guild members make room for God and one another through guided prayer and personal reflection. As friends of Maryknoll, we focus on the mission spirit: serving God by praying for those in greatest need, especially our own loved ones."
- The Prayer Guild was founded on the belief that there is power in prayer. The monthly prayer card mailings and webcasts enhance the Member's belief that prayer is most powerful when voiced in unison – the Prayer Guild provides a community for that type of prayer. It also helps the guild member feel close to Maryknoll in terms of their own spirituality, not just their mission work.
- The invitation consisted of an outer envelope, personalized letter and reply, reply envelope, brochure, initial prayer card and folder. The folder acted as an up-front premium for the prayer guild member and will be a place for them to store the prayer cards that they receive each month. Invitees are asked to make an annual contribution of $25 or more.
- The brochure provided the donor with insight into the power prayer, as well as gave the donor more information on how the club works. A hummingbird image was used on the outer envelope and the brochure. A hummingbird symbolizes timless joy. It's a symbol for accomplishing that which seems impossible and will teach you how to find the miracle of joyful living from your own life circumstances.
- Donors that responded to the invite would receive a new prayer card each month. The prayer cards would have seasonal significance such as Christmas and Easter, or focus on the trials of life we know the donor pool faces (loneliness, death, illness).
- Members of the Prayer Guild "meet" on the second Friday of every month. A webcast of Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers performing the prayer services that centers around the prayer card of the month is shown. Members are encouraged to pray along and include their own personal prayers and reflections. Members may also Post-a-Prayer on the Prayer Guild page. The Fathers and Brothers will include some of these posted prayers during the webcast.
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