Learning to Pray: A Lenten Sermon Series and Discussion Group
Sunday: 9:30 a.m. during our main service and Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. – Zoom Discussion Group
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82434032089
Based on Father James Martin’s book, “Learning to Pray: A Guide for Everyone.”
Sunday topics:
February 22nd: Learning to Pray 1: Obstacles to Prayer
March 1st: Learning to Pray 2: How Prayer Works
March 8th: Learning to Pray 3: Cleansing and Healing Prayer
March 15th: Learning to Pray 4: Learning to Rest in God
March 22nd: Learning to Pray 5: Overcoming Distractions to Prayer
Wednesday Discussion Group: Zoom gathering at 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (Starting February 25, weekly through March 25th).
Chapters 1–2
Please read Chapters 1 and 2 of Learning to Pray: A Guide for Everyone by Fr. James Martin.
We will discuss the following questions at Wednesday's Zoom gathering.
If you had to choose one word to describe your prayer life right now, what would it be? Why?
Father Martin identifies busyness as a primary obstacle to prayer. How fast is your life moving right now? Many people feel busy even when their schedules are not full. Why do you think that is?
Martin references Amos 3:3: “How can two walk together unless they have made an appointment?” What does it mean to “make an appointment” with God? What would that look like concretely in your life?
Martin says honesty is essential in prayer. What are examples of things people might hesitate to bring to God? Psalm 137 expresses anger and even violent desire. Why do you think this prayer is included in Scripture? What does that teach us about honesty before God?
Martin suggests that our image of God may need to evolve. Where did your image of God come from? In what ways might it need to grow or change?
Sometimes we avoid prayer because we fear what God might ask of us. Is there an area of your life where you sense God inviting you toward growth, change, or courage? What feelings does that bring up?
