September 2026

As we explore the gift of prayer through the voices of God’s people across the LCMS Northern Illinois District. You will read what is on the hearts of fellow believers—and you also hear from others who share how prayer shapes the life of their congregations, strengthens faith, and connects God’s people to one another and to His promises.

For Rev. James Hess, senior pastor of St. James Lutheran Church in Chicago, prayer is not simply part of the Christian life—it is at the heart of it.

“Prayer is not just a nice accouterment to the life of the Christian or congregation, but the most significant work a Christian does every day,” he said. Pastor Hess believes prayer is far more than a spiritual exercise. It is God’s gift through which He hears His people, answers their requests, and accomplishes His purposes. “Our prayers make a huge difference in accomplishing the challenges before us,” he said.

Over the years, Pastor Hess has seen firsthand how God responds to prayer. Through seasons of ministry, he has witnessed the Lord bring peace amid conflict, provide solutions to difficult situations, and answer prayers for healing. These experiences have strengthened his confidence that God hears and answers the prayers of His people.

Today, many of his prayers focus on the future of ministry in Chicago. He prays for God’s direction as St. James explores opportunities to plant and partner with churches throughout the city. He also lifts up the congregation’s leaders, staff, and teachers, asking that they would be filled with joy, hope, and peace in Christ as they serve.

Looking back, Pastor Hess points to answered prayers that have shaped the congregation’s ministry, including people coming to faith, believers growing stronger in their walk with Christ, and the blessing of faithful co-workers, including a recently called associate pastor.

If he could ask every reader to pray for one thing, it would be for workers in God’s harvest field throughout Chicago. “The harvest is truly plentiful and ready to hear the Good News of Jesus,” he said.