This is a book of prayer resources for parish groups. It is not a book for ‘prayer groups’, but a book for every parish group. Prayer is the heart of the work of any group engaged in parish ministry or parish renewal.
Two short introductory chapters spell out the importance of prayer in the life of the group. They address the apprehensions that people have and offer a step-by-step guide to preparing and leading prayer at the group’s meeting. The bulk of the book is made up of over 100 resource texts on a wide variety of themes, including the liturgical seasons, feasts and the seasons of nature.
These resources mean that the person preparing the prayer need look no further for ideas for readings, reflections or prayers. Having chosen from these texts, he or she can then consult the guidelines, to turn the text for prayer into an experience of prayer for the group.
Groups that have paid attention to prayer testify to the difference it makes. Those who are already well along the road will find this book to be a rich source of ideas and possibilities. It is our hope that use of the book will help all who draw on it to become more creative with prayer.
Julie Kavanagh and Donal Harrington have worked for a number of years as members of the team of pastoral coordinators for parish development and renewal in the Dublin diocese. Their particular responsibility has been the origination of resources such as this to assist parishes in the process of renewal.
- 55a Spruce Avenue
- Stillorgan Industrial Park
- Blackrock
- Co. Dublin
- IRL