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An introduction Why do we pray? Is it something that arises when we are deeply moved or comes unbidden in desperate times, or is it concern for someone in difficulties, sick or in mourning, prompting us to ask God to help them? We may be anxious for the future of the world and want to ask God's help in searching for solutions, or maybe a great thankfulness wells up in us when we realise how much He loves us, warts and all! Or perhaps we are in great doubt about a choice we have to make and an answer may come if we take time to listen to God within our deepest selves. Prayer is a response to the great variety of experiences that life gives us. It is a chance to listen, to reflect on our lives, and to look for the way ahead As the Psalmist says "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46, verse 10). Christians come together to worship, to sing God's praises, to hear the Word, to share His love, and to pray. Christ Church offers all this in the Sunday services and through less formal groups during the week. We also, however, look for opportunities to pray privately, following the example of Jesus, who during His ministry frequently withdrew to a quiet place, alone to pray. When His disciples asked him to teach them He told them to "go to your private room and, when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you. And again, "your Father knows what you need before you ask Him". So you should pray like this:
This closeness with God is what we seek when we pray, quietly hoping to know more of him who "is the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour and the majesty; for everything in heaven and on earth is yours. All things come from you, and of your own we give you."
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Prayer