PRAYERS IN THE DARK

In many parts of the world Christians have to meet together in secret. Often this involves gathering under the cover of darkness. For example, in Laos, Pastor Phouang’s church have to meet outside their village after dark to avoid being detected by the authorities. Could you identify with them by organising your own Prayers in the Dark? Here are some pointers:

1. Discuss the idea with your church or small group and get the leaders on board.

2. Choose a dedicated evening in spring or autumn, choose a venue and start time (when it is dark), or integrate a slot into a regular prayer meeting or evening service.

3. Start to promote the prayer time and encourage people to attend.

4. Ask people to bring torches, smart phones or some other form of small individual light.

5. Give people some direction on how to pray. You can use our Prayer Shield material, Voice magazine and website to help you.

6. When the time comes, switch out the lights! Explain that some Christians are forced to have all their prayer times in the dark. Spend time praying for them and think about what it means for them to be Christ’s light in the darkest places.

7. Take a photo of the prayer time and share it on social media (with permission from participants.) Please share it with us too along with a brief description.

8. Remember to take participant’s safety into consideration in all your planning.

We look forward to hearing all about your Prayers in the Dark, and will publish some highlights here.