Hertingfordbury Parish News: October 2003

Leading Intercessions

Although leading prayers during worship is a responsible task, it should not be left to the clergy alone. The prayers of lay people can be encouraging and uplifting, as indeed those of our Intercessors are. At the moment we have only four people who have taken up this challenge, it would be god for all of us if we had some more volunteers.

If you feel called to lead prayers at the weekly Sung Eucharist, please contact me for a chat. Areas to look at for this: read the passage of scripture for the day. Write down what you want to say. Do not be afraid to use one of the many Guides to Intercessions that are available. Do not make your intercessions too particular. Perhaps pray for the PCC as they meet this week, rather than we pray for the PCC who meet on Wednesday at 8.00pm. Avoid voicing personal opinions, certainly pray for groups and situation, but do not extol either the virtues or weaknesses of any subject. Do not be afraid to use silence. Do not take too long; do not 'preach' a second sermon.

Despite all these injunctions, accept the duty with confidence. Be reverent. But not anxious. Your prayers are being offered to a loving Father, in the presence of other Christians.

Think about this, and pray about it. Are you being called? Listen carefully.

Rev'd Rosemary

Please note: Although the Hertingfordbury Parish News is produced by St. Mary's PCC, the opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the PCC.