“To pray is to change. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us.” —Richard Foster, 1978
Prayer
Prayer is simply a conversation or contact with God where we open ourselves to the Divine presence. This can take different forms. Quakers may pray silently. We may formulate words or an image or just be. It is important that we listen for what God may have to say to us.
Grace
Before meals, Quakers typically have a silent grace or moment of silent thankfulness for the meal and for each other. The group often holds hands during grace.
Holding in the Light
During or after worship, a Friend may ask the group to “hold someone in the Light.” The person may be sick, dealing with difficult life circumstances, struggling spiritually, or working to serve others. To hold a person in the Light, imagine them being held in God’s loving presence and offer prayers and love for them. Holding an individual or a group of people in the Light is often part of our practice of prayer.