Transcript A Workshop on Intercessory Prayer

A SUMMARY of the
Workshop on
Intercessory Prayer
St Peter’s Church – Oct 2011
Objectives
• Review our understanding
• Share & learn from each other
• Set direction for the future
“Refresh the intercessions at the 9:30 service;
provide greater flexibility and opportunities for creativity
– including the use of music”
The Worship Development Group - August 2011
Definitions
• Prayer: The two-way means of
communication with God
• Prayer: relating to God the Father, through
God the Son in the power of God the Holy
Spirit
• Intercession: asking for things for someone
else
“Intercession desires more for
other people than it is within our
power to give them”
Some Axioms on Prayer
• God’s arm doesn’t need twisting! – It’s taking
hold of God’s desire for the best for us.
• God already knows. He got there ahead of us.
• God is always on our side.
• God always hears, and always answers.
• God is subtle, sophisticated and mysterious – so
are his answers to prayer.
• God is not limited by our ignorance.
• Intercession is a gift for those we are praying for.
What makes for ‘good’ intercessions?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tailored to this service and these people
Connect to the theme of the service
Connect to our lives outside church (166/168)
Be particular & specific – don’t generalize
Vivid language – but concise and not too ‘flowery’
Clear structure – introduce the response
Be clear who are you addressing (God or us)
Pray them, rather than reading notes.
Speak clearly, slowly and audibly
Don’t be afraid to use silence
Use variety, be creative & take risks
Where do we go from here?...
• Thoughts from the Worship Development Group...
–
–
–
–
Preacher not expected to do ‘Section 1’
Less rigid about the use of Sections 1-4
Pairs of people working together – but could be one person praying
Encourage variety, creativity and risk taking
• Find a prayer partners and let Richard know who you will be
working with by 6th November.
• If you haven’t found anyone, then I will find you a partner.
• The new rota starts in December.
• Contact Richard if you have any questions or concerns.