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Different ways of praying

Private prayer

Private prayer means to pray alone. This is considered very important to Christians, as it is a time when they can personally connect with God.

Prayer, meditation, Bible study and singing hymns may all be done at home. Christians can unite themselves with the Church of God as they pray while not actually going to a physical church. Some Christians belong to the house church movement and meet for worship in each other’s homes.

Most Christians use the Bible in private worship. They may read it all over a number of years, or they may reflect on specific parts of it. Some use a study guide to learn how scholars interpret the Bible. Others may read the Psalms as they pray.

Extemporaneous prayers

prayers are prayers that are said without prepared words. An example of this might be after someone has heard some bad news, they will say a prayer for those who are involved. Some Christians believe this type of prayer to be more heartfelt as the prayers are not arranged.

Informal prayers

Informal prayer refers to prayers which speak to God in more simple, everyday language.

Communal prayer

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, thereby helping to strengthen the Christian community.

Image caption,
Christians pray together in a Bible study group

Set prayers

Set prayers are prayers that are well-known, such as the Lord’s Prayer which most 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 teach his followers to pray.