Dear Friends,
There are lots of things that are difficult about prayer. We
struggle over finding time, finding words, finding motivation, or even
wondering whether anyone is really listening. And I know from many
conversations over the years that people often give up altogether, rather than
have a try and feel they have failed. And a result, there is always a lurking
sense of guilt about it.
In fact, we all struggle with prayer (yes – even clergy!)
and the life stories of many of the great saints include their wrestling with
precisely this issue. That’s why it’s important to use all the resources and
help that are available for praying. There are lots of different ways to find a
way into prayer again. The traditional methods of using silence or a prayer book
will suit some, while others may prefer to be more creative and pray as they go
for a walk, or paint, or do something else spontaneous or visual. You can even pray with
technology, using websites or podcasts.
However, we’re all being challenged by the Archbishops of
Canterbury and York to use the period from Ascension Day to Pentecost (10-20
May) to set aside some time to pray as part of their “Thy Kingdom Come”
initiative. The focus is to pray for refreshing of God’s Holy Spirit as we
approach Pentecost Sunday, and to pray for others to come to faith, and to
reflect on how we might be part of helping someone to do that.
Here at MPC, we’re going to be opening church every morning
at 9am for an hour, from 10-20 May, so that people can use the building to pray, and there will
be a short (15 mins) form of morning prayer said every day at 9-30am, which
everyone is welcome to join in. It’s only a small contribution in some ways,
but the mystery about prayer is that sometimes the simplest and briefest of
prayers can make all the difference in the world. Do join us.
Mike
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