At an appointed time in our normal services, we observe a symbolic ritual of candlelighting and private intercession. When you are directing your own contemplative prayers, we invite you to do the same. Find a small candle in your home or private space that you can light right now. Let the candle represent a private prayer. Perhaps it will be a prayer for someone you love, or for someone you know who is in need. Perhaps it is a prayer for yourself. The candle is a visual reminder of the secret that is shared between you and God, and God’s promise to be with you always.
In our live services, an intercessor take your candle and use it to continue praying on your behalf. This time, you are the intercessor. Keep this candle and light it every day. As it burns itself down, speak with God about your prayer. Every time you light the candle, let it remind you of the Spirit. The Living God is with you.
Optional: After your prayer hour, and if you choose, you may wish to trade candles with a friend or loved one who is praying with you now. You may then use these two candles to pray for each other every day, trusting God to know all of your needs. (This is what an intercessor in our live services would do for you.)
As you think on your prayer, we invite you to join your hearts and voices with ours, singing these words of beauty and comfort from the Community of Taizé.
Stay With Us
Stay with us, O Lord Jesus Christ. Night will soon fall. Then, stay with us, O Lord Jesus Christ, light in our darkness.
Give Peace
Give peace to every heart, give peace to every heart, give peace, Lord, give peace, Lord
