The Meaning of Christian Prayer for Filipino Catholics Amid Pain, Illness, and Suffering: An Integrative Thematic Analysis of Qualitative Research.

Résumé

This study examines the meaning of Christian prayer as a response to pain, illness, and suffering among Filipino Catholics through an integrative thematic analysis of qualitative research and theological sources. Drawing on published qualitative studies of Filipino Catholic prayer practices in contexts of illness, trauma, adversity, and health-related suffering, the study identifies recurring themes regarding the lived experience and meaning of prayer. Using thematic analysis, key themes including surrender to God's will, hope amid suffering, endurance, relational trust, and communal support were identified and synthesized. These empirically derived themes were subsequently brought into dialogue with biblical, liturgical, and theological sources, particularly the Christian understanding of prayer as "the raising of one's mind and heart to God." The integrative analysis demonstrates that prayer functions not merely as a devotional practice but as a relational and transformative resource that enables Filipino Catholics to interpret suffering within a framework of faith, meaning, and hope. Rather than eliminating suffering, prayer helps believers reframe their experiences through trust in divine providence, spiritual resilience, and communal solidarity. The study contributes to pastoral theology and religion-and-health scholarship by highlighting prayer as a significant meaning-making practice that supports holistic well-being and offers implications for pastoral care and healthcare ministry.