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MANILA: In Quiapo Church in downtown Manila, there are so-called 'prayer ladies', who accept requests to pray on other people's behalf.
Thousands of devotees gather on Fridays to pay homage to a centuries-old Black Nazarene, a dark-skinned wooden statue of Jesus Christ.
Some devout Catholics walk on their knees to the altar in prayer. But others choose a less painful path, asking one of the church's prayer ladies to pray on their behalf.
The practice has been around for decades – 52-year-old Evelyn Dela Cruz said she was taught how to become a prayer lady by her grandmother.
"She taught us how to pray. We have a book of prayers that we need to memorise. Only when we've mastered it are we allowed me to sit here," she said.
Aside from a rosary, the prayer ladies carry small notebooks to keep track of the requests. They usually receive money, food or gifts for their efforts.
But Evelyn is quick to add that they do not make a living out of other people's misery. "They say it's like prayers for sale. They think it's payment. But actually, it's more like consolation for our help, especially if their prayers get answered."
The prayer ladies said they have never demanded payment from any of the parishioners. They prefer to be called 'prayer warriors' – friends that you can count on to help you pray to God.
Many of those whose prayers are answered do come back and share the blessings they have received.
One of them said: "They are very effective in praying. That is why I ask their assistance to help me pray for a good life for my children."
As long as the prayer ladies do not solicit from the parishioners, the Catholic Church said the practice would be allowed in Quiapo Church.
Fr. Alvin Fullon, Assistant Parish Priest, Quiapo Church, said: "For them, it is not a livelihood, it is their way of helping other people, it is their apostolate. That's why they call the money given to them as donations and not as fees."
- CNA/so
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