Prayer Group Pointers

prayergrouppointers

We were in the middle of a bad situation. Without getting into the details, people were reacting through emotion. I had to pray, but I was so upset. What would help?

Start a prayer group.

Rats. Another one of those little nudges that completely ignores my comfort zone. I'd never been to a prayer meeting, but I know how to run a vacuum. My friend and I decided that I would host and she would lead. Here’s some pointers:

1. Pick someplace to meet. We found that a casual home setting worked better than a public meeting place, which felt too formal.
2. Provide simple refreshments. People may be anxious about praying in front of others. A hot cup of coffee is a comforting thing.
3. Ask people to bring favorite prayers to share. This is a good way to get quieter members to participate.

Two months into our journey, the situation improved and we’re still meeting. We’re not experts, but perhaps what we've learned will help you start a group of your own.

- Sue Bradford Edwards

Sue Bradford Edwards (SueBE) is an original member of the Prayables Pray Maker Council. She is a professional writer, teacher and speaker. Her website www.suebradfordedwards.com is home to her popular blog: One Writers Journey. You can contact SueBE at suebradfordedwards@yahoo.com.

Until

Expectation seems to define my life.
I watch as kettles boil and clocks click midnight.
Calendars turn and leaves fall to the ground.
Still I linger, seeking some quiet secret.
I hang on, believing in Your goodness.

I know waiting is the hardest of hardships.
It’s a thawing of icicles, the sluggish drip
outside my winter window announcing,
slowly, that spring will surely come.
Give me the courage to wait for tomorrow.