Over the last year or so we have begun the practice of praying together in small groups, on the last Sunday of the month. This came about as a consequence of the findings of our first NCD survey held at the end of 2010 which indicated that there was little sharing of prayer, or discussion of our deepest needs or dilemmas within the faith community at St Paul’s.
Many have grown, in faith and community, and found comfort as a result of this practice. Some have even chosen to gather intentionally, on other occasions, to share in prayer for the parish and individuals. While this has bound us more closely together, and has certainly borne fruit, it has nonetheless discomforted some members of our community, such that they do not join us for worship on that Sunday.
As I reflected on this I wondered how best to satisfy the needs of all.
Firstly, let me say that no one should feel compelled to share in this way. For some, sharing our prayer needs is a deeply emotional experience, and places us in a position of vulnerability. It requires are very deep confidence and trust in those gathered together… and it is not always easy to allow our deepest selves such public expression.
Secondly, I note that some of our groups have become unwieldy. We have a limited time frame in which to share and pray so that sometimes people miss out on sharing their need. So, I suggest that groups of no more than 2, 3 or 4 would be preferable… in order to give time for each participant to be heard… and included in the prayers.
And, my final point about these prayer times is that those who feel unable to share, for any reason, should be allowed the freedom and space to spend their time alone – in quiet reflection and solitary prayer. We are all different … yet equally; we are all children of our loving God. Let us be sensitive to each other’s needs so that no one feels excluded as we gather together.
Love and Blessings
Reverend Shan