creative prayer journeys
opening prayer
In the Gospels we are reminded time and again about the importance of prayer. The life of Christ is full of instances where he pauses to pray, sometimes with very simple prayers in the middle of life, at other times withdrawing in solitude to spend much longer periods of time with his Father in heaven. When we open meetings with prayer, we are following in this great pattern laid down by Jesus, that of always seeking first God's kingdom in all that we are and do.
This page has several examples of prayers you can pray for different life occasions and events. As well as the following uplifting video prayer, there is also a short prayer suitable for printing in a program, an inspiring opening worship prayer, a prayer for a meeting and an example of a simple prayer for opening a birthday party.
as we gather here
a prayer suitable for beginning a small meeting (e.g. bible study) or church service:-
prayer in this film
As We Gather Here
As we gather here in the harbour of your safety
We thank you for fellowship and family.
We ask that you will strengthen us, restore us and inspire us with your love.
Lord, would fill us with your peace
So that as we journey onwards
We would pour out your love and grace to others.
We ask that our souls would catch the wind of your spirit
so that we would take your promises to all the earth.
Amen.
(prayer courtesy www.lords-prayer-words.com)
Short opening prayer for a program
(e.g. suitable for a school event or graduation program)
Dear God,
As we come together today, we give you thanks for the good gifts you give us.
We ask for your guidance in our lives,
And we pray that your love would live amongst us.
Amen.
(e.g. suitable for a school event or graduation program)
Dear God,
As we come together today, we give you thanks for the good gifts you give us.
We ask for your guidance in our lives,
And we pray that your love would live amongst us.
Amen.
opening prayer for a worship service
Opening prayer for a worship service
God of grace,
We open our hearts, minds and souls to worship to you.
Thank you that today we dwell in your kingdom and live in your presence.
Thank you that as we gather together we join with all Christians across the world to glorify your holy name.
Come be with us, inspire us and lead us in our time together.
We ask all this in the beautiful name of Jesus.
Amen.
Opening prayer for church worship
This is a short inspirational prayer which recalls God's faithfulness and exalts him as Lord and King of all! A beautiful opening prayer suitable for drawing people into the presence of God during a church service or meeting.
Opening prayer for a meeting (a prayer suitable for a bible study, worship meeting or church service)
Lord,
May your goodness and love be present amongst us today.
Come bless our gathering with unity, hope and vision.
Lord, we pray for unity.
Build in us all a deep respect for one another so that your church may be one.
Lord, we pray for hope.
Come stir your hope within our hearts and renew our faith.
Lord, we pray for vision.
May your vision fill our lives as we seek to reveal your love.
We ask all this in the glorious name of Jesus.
Amen.
how to open a meeting in prayer
Prayer poet Julie Palmer offers three useful tips on how to open church meetings with prayer:-
short opening prayer for a birthday party
Father God,
Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to be together and celebrate this birthday. May our time be filled with friendship, love and joy.
Amen.
Opening prayer for bible study
(a short prayer for if you are leading a bible class)Lord,
Thank you that as we read your word we come to your table and eat the bread of life.
Help us to come with hungry hearts and thirsty minds, so that we can fill up on kingdom life.
May we leave with more love, hope and faith in our lives.
Amen.
related film
A prayer to receive God's hope, love and joy for the day ahead.
related prayers
Including a sample seminar prayer and a prayer suitable for a school assembly.
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prayerscapes
Inspirational Prayers
Read uplifting prayers for healing, strength and renewal! Also featuring daily morning and evening prayers, and petitions for various occasions and events.
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