This article was originally published in the spring 2023 issue of The Vincentian, the quarterly newsletter of the Congregation of the Mission Western Province. It is part of a three-part feature on the prayer platform The God Minute.
When many people think of The God Minute’s typical user, most likely, they imagine someone from the Millennial or Z generations. Ruth Ann Burton, 78, of Huntsville, AL, would politely disagree.
Like many, especially in the first couple years of the podcast, Ruth Ann learned about The God Minute when director Fr. Ron Hoye, C.M., came to her community to conduct a parish mission.
“I’m an old traditionalist,” Ruth Ann said. “Growing up, we were always at church, every Sunday. We knew where our pew was.”
She says The God Minute has improved her prayer life. An active participant in Bible study, she is particularly fond of the segment “Breaking Open the Word.”
“It makes Mass even better for me, because I’ve heard another viewpoint on the Gospel,” she said. “As I get older, it helps me focus and get in the mood. With the app, they have added additional features beyond the daily prayer, and I’ve taken advantage.”
Ruth Ann admits her own listening habits probably run counter to many users.
“I’m not the one to listen to start my day,” she said. “I listen on my iPad at bedtime when I’m relaxing. It works for me. I’ve even listened in the middle of the night if I can’t sleep. When you need it, it’s there. You just click the button, and there it is. It’s just so convenient.”