www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Prayer Unemployment

Brothers and sisters:

Christ is in our midst!!

I ask your prayers for those who are struggling because of unemployment. No matter the reason, being unemployed is a terrifying situation, not only because it strikes at the financial foundation of the lives of those experiencing it and their families, but because we define our worth as human beings--whether that is a good thing or not--by "what we do." One other thing that I have experienced in that situation--twice in my life--is the isolation caused when former co-workers and friends become distant as if unemployment were somehow the fault of the one affected or a disease that could be caught by association.

Lord Jesus, help our brethren who face the lack of a job to support themselves and their families. Grant each one what You know they need and inspire those of us fortunate enough to have employment to extend encouragement and support to our brethren who face this cross. Amen.

Bob

Amen!

As one who has recently come to understand the full meaning of "suffering from unemployment"--Amen and Amen.

Theophan correctly identifies the loss of self-worth; indeed, after a few months, a feeling of utter worthlessness can become overwhelming; and depression and self-medication may not be far behind.

After a series of rejections, ignored resumes, unsuccessful interview, or perhaps most devastating of all, "coming in second" there can be an incredible inertia to overcome in even making a few keystrokes on a keyboard to place an on-line application.

If I'd have known ten years ago what I know now I would have been much more sensitive and aware as a parish pastor to what those mid to upper 50's guys go through when the plant closes.

having been through the pangs of unemployment, I - too, send up prayers!

Lived it twice last year. Prayers.

Amen!

Lord have mercy. Amen

Alex

It is too late for me to edit my previous post; but please know that my personal sojourn through unemployment ended last week.

I hope I can always remember the pain (and the panic) when dealing with others in such circumstances.

Pray for the unemployed. And above all, remind them that job or no job, they remain Baptized children of God and fellow heirs of the Kingdom with Christ.

It can be very easy to lose sight of our most fundamental identity.

Amen!

Dear Thomas,

Congratulations on your new job! Your point on our identity not being tied to our work is a VERY important one.

If, in our unemployment, we can come to realize that our identity is in and with Christ - then the experience will have been one of achieving some real spiritual insight.

Alex

Alex,

That is a point that one of my former Bishops tried (unsuccessfully at the time) to instill in me when I was standing for election to an ecclesial office; an electin which I ultimately lost.

I'm a slow learner.

Keep a good Fast!

Prayers for all those struggling with unemployment, that the Lord quickly lead them into new careers.

Having also been in that situation a few times over the years - though luckily when I was somewhat younger - I can still remember how that dejection and not being wanted felt. Prayers for all of those who are suffering with these circumstances, that God grant them the means to survive the situation and assist them in finding meaningful work that gives them satisfaction.

I hope that I can remember that feeling every time that I pray the first section of the Prayer of St. Ephraim this Great Lent.