Praying with Your Fingers Prayer Card

This 8 1/2 x 11, laminated prayer card, is designed for pre-kindergarten through 2nd grade children, to help them learn the prayer method taught by Pope Francis. Each finger on their hand represents a people to pray for—from family and friends, to world leaders and those who are ill. This creative form of prayer has been around for a long time, and is often credited, especially today, to Pope Francis when he was the Archbishop of Argentina. Perhaps it even existed prior to Pope Francis. Either way, it is a powerful way to pray—and to teach our children to pray—that the Holy Father has often utilized in his ministry. This prayer card makes a perfect end of vacation bible school send off gift, a start of year gift, or a gift for First Reconciliation or First Communion. 

Praying with Your Five Fingers by Pope Francis

1. "The thumb is the closest finger to you. So start praying for those who are closest to you. They are the persons easiest to remember. To pray for our dear ones is a 'sweet obligation.'"

2. "The next finger is the index. Pray for those who teach you, instruct you and heal you. They need the support and wisdom to show direction to others. Always keep them in your prayers."

3. "The following finger is the tallest. It reminds us of our leaders, the governors and those who have authority. They need God’s guidance."

4. "The fourth finger is the ring finger. Even that it may surprise you, it is our weakest finger. It should remind us to pray for the weakest, the sick or those plagued by problems. They need your prayers."

5. "And finally we have our smallest finger, the smallest of all. Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. When you are done praying for the other four groups, you will be able to see your own needs but in the proper perspective, and also you will be able to pray for your own needs in a better way."