To the Editor:

The good that one possesses from prayer has been written about by many saints, but I will speak of my own experiences.

My wife and I recently lost our son, Rick, to cancer. We both persevered in prayer day and night for 10 months, hoping for a cure from this horrific disease. I believe if one does persevere in prayer and trust in the mercy of God, He will answer and repay anyone who has taken Him for a friend.

St. Matthew tells us, “Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you shall find. Knock and it will be opened to you. St. Mark also says, “Whatever things you desire when you pray, believe that you receive them or whatever is best for you.”

God did answer our prayers for our beloved son, Rick. However, He sometimes does it in His way, not ours. I’ve since learned from our son’s death that God answers prayers in three ways. First, God says “yes” and will give you exactly what you’re praying for. In our situation, we prayed for healing of cancer. Second, God says “yes, ” but not now. Third, God says “No,” I have something better.

In our case, my wife and I trusted and accepted in faith, God’s answer. No, I have something better for Rick! God took Rick home with Him to heaven for all eternity! Thank you God, for you always know what’s best for us. Our prayers were answered!

Richard D. Walsh

East Greenwich