2. Christians believe that,
having been created by God,
we are intended to live in relationship with God.
Prayer fosters, strengthens, supports and builds our relationship with God.

3. Why do we pray? When do we pray?
We pray to strengthen our relationship with God
We pray because Jesus prayed
When do we pray?
Jesus prayed at any time of
the day and sometimes all night

4. Talking to/with
Listening to…
Relationship
Trust, truthful…
Familiar words…
Encounter
Being with…
Reflecting…

5. Helping students to pray is important – they have a need and a right to develop a prayer life
Prayer is rooted in an awareness of a personal relationship with God
This is more than ‘learning prayers’
Students should be introduced to a range of ways to pray
Students’ depth of spirituality should never be underestimated

6. Students meet prayer in:
Classroom Prayer
Informal Prayer
Whole school prayer
Formal/ritual/sacramental worship

7. Gathering… Quiet, reflective music Gather - in a circle if possible
Prayer focus - central/visible
Light candle, representing Jesus’ presence among us
Sign of the Cross – English/Maori/other
Share theme (if appropriate)
Opening Prayer – same every day/varied

8. One Basic Prayer Format:
Opening prayer – Morning Offering/Traditional prayer
Scripture Reading/story/saint’s life
Reflection: what did you hear?
Spontaneous prayer
Closing prayer
Hymn/song to begin and/or end