Prayer, Prayer Posture, Body Language

Last night, we had a fascinating and lengthy discussion about prayer, prayer posture, and body language. If you haven't had a chance, consider listening to the Jennifer Lane lecture (or reading her paper), "Sitting Enthroned." Much of our discussion came from her paper and reminded me how intentional God is with everything--including sitting and standing (which is more meaningful than I ever realized).

Here are my notes:

“On prayer per Clarus, I was reading President Nelson’s book Accomplishing the Impossible and he shared these thoughts.

When should we pray?  Alma 37: 37 Whenever we desire.  

Using respectful pronouns Thee, Thou, Thy, and Thine instead of You, Your, and Yours.  

Doing so helps us to be humble.

(Perhaps prayer posture helps us be humble too).

Jesus reminded his disciples that they should not cease to pray in their hearts.

3 Nephi 20:1” Russel M Nelson, Accomplishing the Impossible, p. 48.

Jennifer Lane’s “Sitting Enthroned” paper - sitting, standing, more authority and prayer - every time - even receiving a new calling and standing to be sustained in sacrament meeting

Spanish - tu - more familial in prayer - not as formal - usted is formal, tu is informal which is what is used in prayer

Informal prayer can be powerful

Intent is important

The handbook states formal prayer: thee, thy, thine, etc.

Patriarchal blessing - patriarch is to speak from the Lord - “I” as the Lord

Witnessing prayer in sign language was one of the most spiritual experiences

Standing when praying in public for a group

Initiatory - patron can sit in one booth and have all three workers administering - a profound experience

Sitting with God rather than standing in front of Him

Folding our arms in a closed position can feel defensive

Clasped hands are symbolic of pointing upward

Palms facing up during prayer are also symbolic of receiving from God 

Holding hands in prayer taking turns praying together

Meditating for someone who is in need

Clarus can be a prayer group and meditation group to help each other

The Clarus Prayer Circle via text

Elaine Pagels’ prayer vision in her book Why Religion?

Rosalynde Welch's essay - “Airborne at Low Elevation”

Others in the next life are praying for us

Rest = living in a repentant state