“I believe that God is calling all of us into deeper prayer and is longing for our congregations to become places of prayer,” writes Jane E. Vennard. Pastors and others who want to develop their skills as teachers of prayer and spiritual practices will find in this book not only wisdom for themselves but easily accessible lesson plans, so that they can share Vennard’s insights with others while infusing the activities with their own spirit and creative ideas. Readers are invited to gently explore questions such as, Who taught you to pray and how? What do you believe about prayer? What is your image of the God to whom you pray? And, What is prayer anyway? Through this book, readers’ hearts are made ready to explore the wonder of strengthening their relationship with God through prayer. “In a culture with a real yearning for a more intimate relationship with God, this book is a gift for congregations and their leaders.”
– Rev. Mary Armacost Hulst Calvary Baptist Church of Denver
“This is an essential resource for pastors and leaders committed to deepening a congregation’s spiritual life. The detailed instructions for small-group activities are not only user friendly but reveal the theological reflection of a deeply faithful person and the rich experience of a skilled teacher….”
– Joseph D. Driskell Pacific School of Religion and Disciples Seminary Foundation
