We encourage everyone to develop an intentional and life‑giving routine of prayer, and to become involved in the prayer life of the Benefice. We support this by organising prayer events: quiet days, prayer days, a week of guided prayer, individual guidance on prayer, teaching on public and private prayer, and opportunities to pray regularly with and for others. There is a strong home‑group tradition within the Benefice, with meetings throughout the week for Bible study and prayer. The healing ministry plays an important part in the life of all three churches, with special services each month and regular times of prayer.

Click here for Archbishop Justin Welby's lecture on 'The risk of prayer', focusing on the renewal of prayer and why we should pray.

God is not a good habit

a useful Sunday exercise

one interest among others

a fascinating hobby.

God is life itself

He is Someone

not to be analysed

examined, proved

but to be met.

And when that happens

Life unfolds

meanings matter

love is deeper.

Be still. Relax. Unwind.

Open those inner doors.

Howard Booth,
published in Approaches to Prayer, edited by Henry Morgan, SPCK, 1991

Lord,

bring me peace in my heart

as I face this new day.

Let your calm be my strength

as I prepare for what lies ahead.

You have shown me how to trust in you;

you are my true friend.

Now help me to bring peace to those I meet,

so that they can know that perfect love

which you have shown through Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Rupert Bristow, Only Connect, Kevin Mayhew, 2009