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At Holy Cross Catholic School, second-grade teacher Renee Loftus has upheld a cherished tradition—prayer partners. 

Holy Cross Catholic School second grade students with prayer partner holding card

A Holy Cross alum herself, Renee has spent the last 10 years teaching at her childhood school, continuing its legacy of faith and community. Prayer partners have long been assigned through the parish, but within her classroom, they’ve become something even more special. At the end of each school day, the second graders recite the Act of Contrition and pray with special intentions for their partners by name, ensuring no school day passes without lifting them up in prayer.

Throughout the year, students exchange letters and holiday cards with their prayer partners—strengthening connections beyond the classroom, much like pen pals in faith. Fun fact: For years, Renee’s class has consistently prayed for Mary Jo Malm, a former Holy Cross second-grade teacher—whose very classroom Renee now teaches in!

What made this year’s prayer partner experience so special?  Renee added two members of the Holy Cross community who were undergoing cancer treatments to the class’s prayer list. Over time, prayers turned into tangible acts of kindness, with students sending messages, cards and heartfelt words of encouragement.

Then—a miracle unfolded.

Both of the individuals are now cancer-free!

One of them visited Renee’s classroom this spring, personally thanking the students for their prayers. The children all placed their outstretched hands in prayer over her and sang “May the Blessing of the Lord Be Upon You”—a Holy Spirit moment unlike any other, according to Renee. The second individual sent the class good news as well, with messages of gratitude, sharing how much the students’ prayers meant to them.

“In my 26 years as a teacher, this has been one of the most special times,” Renee said. “All the moments this year have shown that miracles happen. Who doesn’t need a prayer?”

Her students have witnessed firsthand the healing strength of words and faith, a lesson that will remain with them long after they receive their second grade sacraments and leave her classroom.

At Holy Cross Catholic School, prayer partners aren’t just a tradition—they’re a testament to the power of community, faith and love.

Mrs. Loftus’ Class – 2025 Prayer Partners:

• Mrs. Malm
• Mrs. Capece
• Mrs. Tripp
• Mrs. Holthe

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This school year, the second graders at Holy Cross have come to know the healing power of prayer. You can help support and sustain experiences like these in our Catholic schools for years to come through the Nebraska Catholic Day of Giving on May 7, 2025. Give online to a specific school or area of impact. You can also learn more about the Consortium here.