In a short while we'll begin our second virtual study session on prayer offered through Trenton United Church. Our group was relatively small last week yet this allowed for plenty of conversation and participation from those who gathered from hither and yon.
Today we'll consider what I've termed "right-brained" prayer, the forms of prayer may be more visual and tactile and intuitive. For thousands of years those who desire to be in communion with God have understood that this doesn't require words, whether verbal or written.
I've enlisted the help of Ruth, my wife, in considering two forms of praying which may include words but can also be meaningful without them. They are prayer beads and prayer shawls. Prayer beads are part of many religious traditions as an opportunity to bring focus in a repetitive and tactile way. Ruth has led workshops on creating prayer beads which are personal, an opportunity which will have to wait for a healthier time in our society.
Ruth will also speaks about the prayer shawl ministry in which she's been involved in three congregations. Individuals prayerfully knit or crochet shawls which are then given to people as a form of comfort. Members of Trenton United have embraced this ministry and dozens of shawls have been given to those who are ill, or isolated, or bereaved. Rev. Isaac (our kid) has been able to deliver many shawls during the pandemic, observing rules about distance. A number of recipients have written touching notes of appreciation, including one from a five-year-old who claimed a delivered shawl after the tragic loss of a sibling.
We'll look at a couple of other forms of right-brained prayer as well, time permitting. They are all reminders that our desire to be in conversation and communion with God can be varied, and even unconventional, and that all of them are valid and meaningful.
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