Msgr. Charles began writing these words as conclusions to his homilies at Sunday Mass, usually summarizing three main points from each homily in the form of a prayer. The growing, positive response to the prayers by parishioners encouraged author and retired pastor Charles D. McGlinn to make the choice to publish his prayers for more than his congregation to enjoy. The efforts created this book, Poem Prayers, that feature several of his treasured poetic prayers from the past twenty-five years. The prayers are divided into groups under certain themes, for example Christian discipleship, the cross, sin and forgiveness, and the Eucharist. The poem prayers reflect the parables and teachings of Jesus as found in the scriptures, such as loving God as we should, loving one's enemies and communicating with God to learn of His will. Other prayers celebrate the feelings we experience when we desire Jesus to be near us, drawing us closer to God in trust and faith. Our hope is to enlighten readers to the wonderful gift prayer can be to unite believers with God and with others in their lives. The proceeds from book sales will go towards facilitating the operations of Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos in Miacatlan, Mexico, an orphanage providing food, clothing, medical services, housing and more for orphaned/abandoned children in Mexico. What began as a parting message to congregants has led Poem Prayers to not only reach people around the world, but also support the growth and development of faith for children in need of God's protection and love.
