If you believe in the power of prayer, do you think prayer can benefit the unworthy?

I was watching a documentary on North Korea (Inside North Korea).

I was amazed at the fervent and heartfelt words of thanks the surgical patients gave to the “Great Leader,” Kim Jong-il. To the film maker (and to me) it seemed that the actions of Kim Jong-il had perhaps caused and certainly perpetuated their conditions and it was the generous actions of the visiting surgeon who had returned their vision.

If these misguided/misinformed people prayed for the happiness and well being of Kim Jong-il, do you think that would have the power to make it so?

I realize that North Koreans are classified as “irreligious.” So my question is really a theoretical one. If people pray for someone, does that person get the benefit from prayer regardless of their worthiness?

__Obviously, if you don’t believe in the power of prayer, then this question won’t mean anything to you. I’m really interested in the opinion of the believers.__