Prayer in the Episcopal Church is a daily way of connecting with God—a real, two-way conversation that includes listening as much as speaking. Through prayer, we offer gratitude, praise, honesty, and our hopes and needs, trusting that God meets us with grace.
How We Pray
Rooted in the Book of Common Prayer
The Book of Common Prayer shapes our worship and personal prayer. Its words, rhythms, and scripture connect us with centuries of faithful people while grounding our prayer in everyday life.
Together and on Our Own
We pray together in worship—especially in the Eucharist—and we also value quiet, personal, and contemplative prayer. Prayer is part of a “Way of Love,” a daily practice of dwelling in God’s presence.
Many Ways to Pray
There’s no single “right” way to pray. In the Episcopal Church, prayer often includes:
Praise — honoring God
Thanksgiving — giving thanks
Penitence — confession and forgiveness
Oblation — offering ourselves to God
Intercession — praying for others
Petition — bringing our needs before God
Contemplation — resting in God
Prayer shapes how we live, helping us listen for God’s guidance and move into the world with compassion, justice, and love.
New to Prayer? Start Here
If prayer feels new—or if you’re coming back to it—you’re not alone. Here are a few simple ways to begin:
Keep it simple. Talk to God honestly, just as you are.
Use written prayers. The Book of Common Prayer offers words when you don’t have your own.
Try silence. Even a few quiet minutes can be prayer.
Pray daily, briefly. Consistency matters more than length.
Join others. Praying with a community can support and deepen your practice.
The Lord’s Prayer
The Lord’s Prayer is at the heart of Episcopal worship. It centers us in trust, forgiveness, daily dependence on God, and hope for God’s kingdom—and it’s a prayer many people carry with them throughout life.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your Name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial,
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours,
now and for ever. Amen.