It was 10 below zero this morning and we received 9 inches of snow but people showed up for church and the car started praise God!In Bozeman Montana. At St. Paul Community Church prayer is part of the worship experience, I ask people to chose someone they do not know and ask what they need in terms of prayer. People seem to need that one on one time with someone who will listen and pray with them.I have done this for years, and it never ceases to amaze me how much the congregation needs and enjoys the personal aspect of prayer. I do believe in prayer chains with all of my heart for my daughter and I have been receipents of the blessings of prayer chains. Do we need to discuss the power of prayer and healing, more in the church, or leave it to the prayer warriors? What do you think? And do we need more time for prayer during worship?

-- Anonymous, December 11, 2000

Answers

I think the "one on one" prayer time is great. As we welcome new members in our congregation, our pastor assigns them a prayer partner. I think when we share our lives with our fellow Christians, the journey doesn't appear as lonely. It also makes us accountable to someone. As far as prayer time in Church. There can never be too much prayer time. This seems like a wonderful part of your worship service.

Another thing I think it does for new members, is let them be aware that other people have needs similar to their needs. You know how sometimes we have a tendency to think "We are the only ones". So we will not speak because of shame. Many blessings, Carmen

-- Anonymous, December 11, 2000

Rev. Denise Rogers thank you very much for this most crucial topic. I believe that we should pray about all things all the day long. I believe that when we feel anxiety, anger, fear or any frustrating emotion we should pray. I also believe that in our meetings we should pray about matters instead of voting on matters. Prayer is a great source of power and there is a great need for more sermons on how to pray. Thank you for this most exciting subject. Sincerely,

JazzMan

-- Anonymous, December 11, 2000

Jazzman good to hear from you. I have been thinking about doing a prayer workshop. After reading your response I think I will. I tell my congegation, everytime you go to the bathroom pray. God doesn't mind where you are. I also suggested every time they are in a check out line at a store to pray, it is better than reading the tabloids;-)

-- Anonymous, December 11, 2000