The Friday lunch program at St. Alban’s is a place where simple acts of kindness and faith can make a profound difference. This past Friday, I experienced that firsthand.

I noticed a person, whom I’ll call L, looking a bit troubled. L approached me hesitantly and asked if I would be willing to pray with them.

Of course, I said yes.

L began to share their story, a story filled with personal challenges and worries. Listening, I felt a deep sense of empathy. It’s remarkable how quickly a connection can form when someone opens their heart and shares their vulnerability. L’s worries were real, their burdens heavy, and I could feel the weight they carried.

We talked for a while, and then, together, we prayed. Most importantly, we acknowledged that God was present with us, listening and offering comfort. I prayed for strength, for peace, and for guidance, trusting that God would hear our plea and provide what L needed. It wasn’t a long or elaborate prayer, but it was sincere and heartfelt, an invitation for God’s presence to be felt.

When we finished, L looked at me with tears in their eyes. They thanked me, their voice thick with emotion. It was a simple “thank you,” but it resonated deeply. In that moment, I realized the power of presence, the power of listening, and most importantly, the power of prayer, knowing that God was the true source of comfort.

It wasn’t about me; it was about being a vessel, a conduit for God’s love and presence. It was about offering a moment of solace and connection in a world that can often feel isolating, knowing that God was there, listening and caring. The tears that L shed weren’t tears of sadness alone, I believe they were also tears of release, of feeling heard and supported by both another person and by God.

This experience reminded me of the true essence of community and faith. St. Alban’s Friday lunch program isn’t just about providing food; it’s about providing a space where people can connect, share their burdens, and find comfort in one another and in God. It’s a place where a simple act of prayer, acknowledging God’s presence, can touch a heart and make a real difference.

Leaving St. Alban’s that day, I felt a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such a compassionate community, and gratitude for the reminder that even small acts of kindness, and most importantly, the presence of God, can have a profound impact. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of human connection and the importance of being present for one another, and in the knowledge that God is always present among us, especially during difficult times.