Strategy Update

Praying as a Community

"Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain." Ps 127:1 (ESV)

Why on earth are we talking about prayer as part of the diocesan strategy?

Prayer has always been a part of the rhythm of the church, in times of celebration, times of suffering and in times of uncertainty. Prayer reminds us of who we are, and who we belong to, it invites us into the life of God and the life of God into our world and work.

When prayer becomes a communal act, woven throughout our common life together, not just through our worship, but also our conversations, our informal gatherings and leadership, it reorients the life of the church around God’s presence. It's not just something we do before the "real work"; prayer is also the work.

In parishes, that shared practice can deeply bind people together. It can help us to love one another and to love our communities. It can provide wisdom and insight, as well as hope and courage.

"Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God's gift of himself."

Mother Teressa

"Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you."

St. Augustine.

Questions:

How could you include prayer a little bit more into the rhythm of your own life?

How can you contribute more to the prayer life of your parish?