Laurel Hallman reviews her appointment book in the same way. She focuses in turn on those in her congregation who need her attention. Now I, too, in my morning and evening prayer, consider those I care about, especially those in particular need. When we give thoughtful consideration to our relationships, they are nurtured. In the Post on Wednesday was an article about a group of anonymous Christians who come together weekly to pray for the city of Washington.
People join together publicly to pool their energy on behalf of a greater good.
When people pray at rallies, marches, religious rituals, and community gatherings something significant happens. When groups of people focus their will and best intention together for a good cause, momentum builds and love spreads. Here I might mention the fascinating research that is going on demonstrating in well designed peer reviewed studies the actual positive effects of prayer on phenomena, from the growth of bacteria to the health of faraway strangers. In this book, he cites many studies while also reflecting on the nature and types of prayer. Not enough is known to make conclusive statements, but I am open to the possibilities of new knowledge about the effectiveness of prayer.