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Many of us come to
church with the question the disciples of Jesus asked him: “Lord,
teach us to pray.” We want to be part of a church that helps us
learn how to pray from those who themselves pray, and who show some
sign of living with God.
In our tradition.
growth in prayer -- spiritual development -- is nurtured primarily
through participation in the liturgies (worship services) of the
church, especially the Eucharist, which we celebrate every Sunday
morning and at 12:15 on Thursdays. There, week by week, we join in
the prayer of the whole church from its earliest years to today,
“offering ourselves, our souls and bodies” to the God who has
offered his own life for us. The hymns, the sermons, the prayers of
the people, the great thanksgiving over bread and wine -- all these
help to lead us into a deepening relation with God and with one
another as members of the community of faith.
The Book of Common
Prayer, consisting of prayers and liturgies drawn from the
whole history of the church, but above all from the Bible, is itself
a manual of prayer for all occasions. It is used by individuals and
families for personal devotions at home, and by small groups at
meetings or special occasions. In addition, the education programs
at Holy Trinity often include subjects relevant to the spiritual
life.
For any who desire
it, our parish also offers the ministry of
spiritual direction in
which a person meets with a companion who is trained and experienced
in helping others grow in their spiritual lives. Whether it is a
matter of learning the rudiments of prayer and meditation, praying
through a particular decision, or going deeper into the life of
prayer, this ministry is available for individuals and on occasion
for small groups as well.
While spiritual
growth is at the heart of everything we do, for some it is a
ministry as well. At Holy Trinity, you can share in this ministry as
a member of the prayer team and by serving as a liturgical leader at
church services or as a lay
Eucharistic minister in people’s homes.
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Therapist
Susan Nathiel discusses a central issue of Christian faith.