Extemporaneous Prayer

[markw31415]

I am sometimes asked to lead prayers for small groups at my church, for family gatherings, etc. But I’m a little shy and frankly not too good at it. Also, my spoken English is not too good. Can anyone suggest any good books or websites that may help me to learn how to do this better? Or is it just a question of practice? Thanks for any help!

 

[Joannm]

Follow the outline of a collect, or the prayers said on our behalf at mass.
Hard to explain but the collects can be broken down into
You…who…do…to…through.

For example
Almight Father (you)
who created all that is good (who)
grant to us your people
the grace to always follow you
and to do your will in all things. (do…to)
We ask this through Christ our Lord…amen. (through)

Kind of hard to explain in such a quick post but that is the idea.

 

[markw31415]

Thank you so much for those thoughts. That is actually very helpful! I will start to think about how I can use that as a guideline! Thanks again!

 

[fivegoldenrings]

Try not to be anxious about what you are going to pray. The fact that YOU are the one being asked to lead the prayer would suggests that, besides othes looking to you as a source of leadership, God Himself is joyfully pleased with your leading the prayer. So, just take a deep breath, open yourself to the Holy Spirit, and pray whatever is in your heart.

 

[mangy_dog]

I am sometimes asked to lead prayers for small groups at my church, for family gatherings, etc. But I’m a little shy and frankly not too good at it. Also, my spoken English is not too good. Can anyone suggest any good books or websites that may help me to learn how to do this better? Or is it just a question of practice? Thanks for any help!

If you are being asked frequently at church and in family gatherings - it may be a calling to be a man of prayer. Don’t be to concerned with how you sound or how you look to others. What I mean is, place yourself in the Lords presence when asked to make a prayer. No need to close your eyes, just assume a prayerful attitude. Or close them if that is the natural prayerful attitude for you.
Keep your prayer simple. Kind of like the humbling experience one feels when our senses percieve the Lord’s presence…in those instances we really don’t feel inclined to multiply words - just the few things that occur to us when moved by the Holy Spirit.
The deeper your awareness of His presence - the simpler your prayer will become…regardless of who is around you. When you rest in His presence…others around you will benefit also.
I hope that helps.

Pax Domini sit semper vobiscum.