We set up at the home of one of our members both inside the house and outside in the yard and on the split level deck. Her warmth and hospitality helped to make the day what it was.
Some arrived on foot, many by car, one by bike.
It proved to be a very relaxed - and inspiring - time. People understood immediately what it was about and how it worked.
A small pew, which once served the Church of the Resurrection, displayed the yellow lined post-it note prayer requests. Blank ones were also available and many people added prayers. Other helpful resources from 24/7 Canada and 24/7 London were also available. (Thank you, guys!)
We put out Anglican Prayer Books (both burgundy and spinach) and Celtic Daily Prayer by the Northumbria Community. We played their CD of Morning Prayer to get us started.
From start to finish three scent-less candles burned for the Three of my Love.
Paper, pencils and crayons were on the kitchen table to draw or compose a prayer. Most often, people prayed alone but some spontaneous two-somes and groups formed.
Our host kept refreshments to a minimum - water, mints, dried apricots - and late in the afternoon a stout cup of coffee (yum).
One surprise for me personally: I began to sense the power of the old anchorite model. That is where a monk or nun would remain in one place (monastery, church, green space) while others could drop in at their leisure for prayer or spiritual conversation. People I had not spent much time with were able to bring their concerns when or if they felt it was needed. Setting up appointments is such a different proposition.
Our next "Drop-In Prayer Day" will be September 27 from 10 AM - 4 PM. The Church will know the location..
(6 hours of a 24/7 = 6/.036!)
No comments:
Post a Comment