But the clergy may be helpful at any time during the illness. People differ in what they need from the clergy or pastoral counselors. For some, a familiar ritual like reciting a prayer together is helpful. Others may want to discuss their experience and questions in more depth, and a pastoral counselor may serve as a sounding board to figure out how life can acquire new meaning after a cancer diagnosis. If you have spiritual concerns, talking with the clergy might be helpful.
Some people use prayer to help cope with their cancer.
There is no scientific evidence that prayer alone will cure cancer. On the other hand, prayer is based on faith, not on science. The important point is that prayer and scientifically tested treatments should not interfere with one another. Receiving medical treatment should not prevent people from praying, and praying should not prevent people from receiving the best, scientifically tested treatment for their cancer. If prayer has helped you deal with other troubles, it will probably also be comforting now.