Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry

By Ann Borden

Our children school’s Mass was rescheduled to a Friday, coincidentally on the Feast Day of St. Padre Pio. As early as Monday, and numerous times during the week, our youngest son begged me to join and sit with him during their school Mass. A previously scheduled 10 o’clock meeting prevented me from joining, and he was visibly upset, especially mentioning that they were celebrating our pastor’s birthday. I kept thinking about his sweet gesture, thoughtfulness and how special and loved he made me feel with his invitation.

God had other plans for my Friday. The day before my meeting, I confirmed the date and time with my clients, only to be surprised that they later requested a postponement. Always trying to decipher God’s plan, this message was clear.

The homily, reflecting on St. Padre Pio’s life and his message, resonated with me. His message, “Pray, hope and don’t worry,” were exactly what I personally needed to hear to propel and thrive during this time. It was as if our son knew that the Mass would alleviate my worries, and the message comforted me. What at first I interpreted as an hour away from the work day instead became a lifetime reminder of God’s grace to endure any suffering through strength and perseverance, while spending time with one of his greatest gifts to me, our youngest son, and filling my soul with joy and hope hearing the young congregation pray and sing.

“Pray, hope and don’t worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.” – St. Padre Pio