I had the physical sense of being prayed for. Even when I knew nothing and received no letters, I felt warmth as if sitting near a fire. Sometimes this happened in punishment cells, which are very cold. It was like hearing someone pray for me and think about me. This supported me so much. It is difficult to explain. . . . I felt and knew I was not forgotten. This was sufficient to make me resist the most difficult moments.
IRINA RATUSHINSKAIA—CHRISTIAN POET IMPRISONED
IN THE FORMER SOVIET UNION UNTIL 1987