How to Pray in the Presence of Others

Prayer can be very moving in any circumstance, but in the presence of others, it can create powerful bonds. The shared experience draws people together as they focus on spirituality.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• 1 or more prayer companions

1. Take a few moments to gather your thoughts. Leave your everyday concerns behind. Concentrate on important ideas: issues in your life that are troubling, gratitude for things that make you happy or a search for wisdom.
2. Read and say the prayers with intention. Think about their underlying meanings. Find a particular phrase, verse or section that speaks to you. When creating your own prayers, use the words from your heart.
3. Listen to the voices of the people who are with you. Think about what you share in common. Imagine each person’s struggles and achievements even when you don’t know what they are.
4. Think about what you would most wish for from the other people. Think about what you would most like to offer.
5. Let your thoughts focus on the words you are reading/speaking/singing and at the same time let them drift gently into the outer realms of your consciousness. Be ready to receive insights or ideas that are new. Let go of problems; solutions may emerge, or you may see things differently.
6. Make eye contact with the other people. Put your loving presence into the looks you give. Accept the others for who they are now. Accept yourself for who you are.
7. Find ways to connect your new consciousness with actions you can take in the world after the praying is done. Consider who needs your help, and think about how you can make life better for somebody else. Think of all the great gifts that are within you to share with others.
8. Greet the other people as you prepare to leave. Acknowledge their part for making the prayers meaningful. Return to your everyday life enriched.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are the prayer leader, be sensitive to everybody's responses. Wait until everyone has completed one section of the prayers before moving on to the next.
• Speak loudly enough for everyone to hear.
• If you are not leading the prayers, help the leader by concentrating. Your focus will influence other people.
• Don't let one person monopolize a discussion or prayer.
• Never betray the confidence of things said in prayer. Treat it as though it is private and a secret.