Group-Related Questions
The following are the most commonly asked questions (in regards to Prayer Sisters™ Groups).
When should we meet?
We recommend meeting twice a month, but you choose what works best for your group. A regular date and time is helpful for planning purposes. First and third Thursdays of every month from 9:00-10:30 a.m., for example.
For working women, evenings or sometime on the weekend might be necessary, depending upon each individual's work schedule. If schedules coincide, perhaps a lunchtime prayer might be convenient. For stay-at-home moms with children in school, during the school day works well. Groups with small children may also want to meet during the day, taking turns caring for the children in a separate room. Another idea is to hire a local homeschool teenager to watch the children, giving the moms much needed time together in prayer.
Where should we meet?
Meeting in one another's homes is a logical option. You can take turns meeting at different homes, or if one person has the gift of hospitality, she might welcome the opportunity to regularly exercise her gift in this way.
Working women who choose to meet during a lunch hour will need to find a central location with quick and easy access for each member of your group, such as a local library study room or an available office.
Another option is to meet at a church that is convenient for your group. Some of our Prayer Sisters™ attend a church with a small coffee shop, which has become a favorite place to meet.
On nice weather days, you may want to try something different and visit a park. Pray around a picnic table, or find a comfy spot under a shady tree. One group describes a special prayer time, walking together on a bike trail: "We prayed, enjoyed a beautiful sunny day, and exercised — all at the same time!"
How many women should be in a group?
Three to seven is best. When a group has too many members, it is hard to give adequate time and attention to each person's prayer needs. Also, confidentiality is more difficult to obtain in a large group. A group of at least three members builds a necessary sense of comradeship and support.
Do we need a leader?
Not really. You just need someone to make sure you get together and pray.
How long should each meeting last?
We recommend at least one hour, depending on how many members are in your group. Many groups meet for two hours, allowing sufficient time for both visiting and prayer. Some groups prefer to not establish an ending time, trusting the Holy Spirit to manage their prayer time.
Do we have to belong to a church?
Not at all. The objective is prayer, not church involvement.
Should we serve refreshments?
ONLY if it does not take away from the focus of prayer. Prayer is our highest priority. Most groups elect to save snacks for special occasions (i.e. Christmas, birthdays, etc.), although coffee and tea are frequently served on a regular basis.
How long will our group be together?
As long as you need it to!
What if someone in our group moves away?
In our transient society this is bound to happen. When it does, we hope you invite someone to fill her spot AND we hope she starts a new Prayer Sisters™ group wherever she goes.