The Christian Church has many denominations. Churches and chapels have diverse features and worshipping practices, but all value the importance of prayer – both private and communal.
Communal prayer means to pray with others. This can take place during church services, or it could be a structured meeting of Christians who have arranged to pray together. This type of prayer can help Christians connect with each other as well as God and help to strengthen the Christian community.
Set prayers
Set prayers are prayers that are well-known, such as the Lord’s Prayer, which many Christians will know by heart. These prayers often have significant meaning and importance for Christians and are helpful for communal prayer and collective worship. The Lord’s Prayer is recited in most Christian services and is a prayer which Jesus used to help teach his followers to pray.
Public worship helps Christians to achieve a deeper understanding of the Bible, the life of Jesus and Christian teachings. It also enables those who receive Holy Communion to welcome Jesus into their hearts.
Question
Match the definitions below, to describe the different types of prayer.
Type of prayer
Private prayer
Set prayer
Informal prayer
Extemporaneous prayer
Communal prayer
Definitions
Praying to God using more simple, everyday language
Praying with others
Spontaneous prayer
Praying alone
Well-known prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer
Private prayer – praying alone
Set prayer –- well-known prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer
Informal prayer – praying to God using more simple, everyday language
