Orthodox Prayer Evangelism
Prayer is at the foundation of Christian life and salvation. While Orthodox Christians pray at the liturgy, special services and in private at home, prayer can also be used as an active outreach and evangelism tool. The great thing about Prayer Evangelism is that it always is successful: even if new people are not brought to the church in person, the prayers offered for them and their families may be the only real spiritual medicine they have received for a long time, if ever. Also, it gives an opportunity for the congretion to meet between Sundays to strengthen their spiritual life.
Orthodox Prayer Services are typically shorter than the liturgy so there is no 'culture shock' of standing and length to overcome. Prayer is not 'that different' from what visitors have seen elsewhere as long as it is done mostly in English (language is key to evangelism).
Orthodox Prayer Evangelism is a simple program:
1. Announce and promote the prayer service
2. Have at least one greeter to welcome visitors, give out handouts and prayerbooks briefly explain service itself
3. Pray
Follow the steps below to easily organize Prayer Evangelism in your local church. On final note: this must be a labor of love for others who need prayer...don't let low attendance cause discouragement and bring the program to an end. Commit at least a year before making an decision on discontinuing.
Prayer is at the foundation of Christian life and salvation. While Orthodox Christians pray at the liturgy, special services and in private at home, prayer can also be used as an active outreach and evangelism tool. The great thing about Prayer Evangelism is that it always is successful: even if new people are not brought to the church in person, the prayers offered for them and their families may be the only real spiritual medicine they have received for a long time, if ever. Also, it gives an opportunity for the congretion to meet between Sundays to strengthen their spiritual life.
Orthodox Prayer Services are typically shorter than the liturgy so there is no 'culture shock' of standing and length to overcome. Prayer is not 'that different' from what visitors have seen elsewhere as long as it is done mostly in English (language is key to evangelism).
Orthodox Prayer Evangelism is a simple program:
1. Announce and promote the prayer service
2. Have at least one greeter to welcome visitors, give out handouts and prayerbooks briefly explain service itself
3. Pray
Follow the steps below to easily organize Prayer Evangelism in your local church. On final note: this must be a labor of love for others who need prayer...don't let low attendance cause discouragement and bring the program to an end. Commit at least a year before making an decision on discontinuing.
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Types of Prayer Services to Offer |
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Promotion & Preparation for the Prayer Service |
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Prayer Books and Resources |
