There may come a time when you wish to practice contemplative prayers on your own. When you do, you’ll find yourself considering how to make these moments with God peaceful and intimate. Many hours are spent at the Georgetown Ecumenical Wholeness Services considering things such as lighting, sound, placement of musicians, and ornaments in the prayer space. But to do it on your own, or with a small group, is quite possible. This post will give you some guidance on how to prepare a place and time to be shared by both you and God.
In order to experience the quiet healing of all of the elements of Ecumenical Wholeness, it is important to set aside about an hour and protect it. We always gather from 6:30 – 7:30 pm every month, but you may choose another time. When you have decided on your time, reserve a place for that hour, and make a peaceful retreat. In that retreat, we suggest that you prepare the following elements in order to to support you.
Candles
Light some candles around your worship space, or use simulated “safe candles,” if you prefer. You may have a favorite arrangement, or simply place a single candle near you. Candles may be as low-key or elaborate as you like, but candlelight is an important symbol in our prayers. By the light of the candle, we are reminded that Jesus is the Light of the world, and that we are called to light the world in His name. By the flickering flame of candlelight, we remember the movement of the Spirit in our midst. Finally, we are reminded of John’s words in the Logos, “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.“
Ornaments
We are human, and as humans our senses often need focus while reaching out to God. From time to time, the eyes and mind may wander. You might find it helpful to set additional symbols of God in your field of vision. Such symbols might include flower arrangements, religious illustrations, photos of space or nature, sculptures, or any other visual cues. Like the rest of your space, the goal is to calm, quiet, and direct you into the arms of God’s Spirit.
Lighting
If you will be worshipping with the aid of a computer or other video device, the light from your screen and your candles may be sufficient for your needs. If not, you may need a little extra light to view songbooks or scripture. Whatever your choice, lighting is important. Too much light is distracting, and may engage your senses in a way that will disrupt your prayers. Too little light is distracting as well. Choose the balance that will allow you to put the world aside and focus on God alone.
Worship Materials
In our recent push to provide virtual prayer services, you will find many materials now available to you on your computer. However, you may also have materials of your own that you wish to use. Whatever you would like to do during your hour, prepare it and make it ready before you begin. This will almost certainly include:
- Songs
- Scripture readings
- Devotionals or Meditations
- Lists of prayer concerns
- Elements of Communion
Intercessory Candles
When we worship together, we light long taper candles to represent private prayers. In your own space, provide a candle that may be lit to represent your prayer. Choose a small votive or tea light, and pray during an appointed time during your hour. We suggest that you keep the candle after your hour of prayer, and continue to use it to intercede on a daily basis. As the candle burns down, use it as a symbol of God’s light in your heart, and of hope in the world.
Communion
Normally, a minister will prepare and consecrate the elements of Communion. If you wish to observe it in your own private time and space, we do encourage you to do it. For those who believe in Communion as a sacrament, we are comforted by the idea that God and all saints abide together in the symbolic act of Holy Communion. The ritual is fully appropriate for private homes and spaces, and may be performed in a small group.
Here is what we suggest you prepare for Communion elements in your private space:
- Bread (of your choice – gluten free if needed)
- Juice or wine
- Words of consecration
- Prayers for the ritual of Communion
More Ideas
We take many leads from the Community of Taizé. For an excellent guide to preparing a space and time for private worship, please see their guide, How to prepare a prayer service.
