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I am noticing that we're getting more and more people…

“I am noticing that we're getting more and more people - and I don't know how to handle this - who come to me saying, "Would you pray for my son? Would you pray for my daughter?" I've been saying, "Pray for them yourself." But they don't want that because they think I've got something that's…” quote by Cecil Williams
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“I am noticing that we're getting more and more people - and I don't know how to handle this - who come to me saying, "Would you pray for my son? Would you pray for my daughter?" I've been saying, "Pray for them yourself." But they don't want that because they think I've got something that's greater than what they have. I keep saying, "I don't! Not really. I got the title 'minister; but I don't want to exploit you. You do it, too." I think the way to solve it is to do it together. We're going to pray in community, you see?”

Cecil Williams

About This Quote

Source Interview: Community Ministry Podcast, 2019

Prayer should be a shared practice, not a transactional request to a leader.

In simple terms: Prayer is communal, not a service.

Key Takeaway

Foster collective prayer, avoid hierarchy.

Themes

faith community service

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

spiritual practical

When to use this quote

  • Church gatherings
  • support groups
  • counseling sessions
  • online forums

Key Concepts

Theology leadership dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders model humility in spiritual care?
  • What barriers prevent communal prayer?
A Different Perspective

Some may view shared prayer as less personal.

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