4.4 Seattle preparatory school - barmore

Thread: Religious

Subgroup: Individual

Foci: Local

Program Title: Adult Faith Formation: Prayer Service

Contact Person/Office: Matt Barmore: Director of Ignatian Formation

School : Seattle Preparatory School

Program Description: Four times throughout the year, we have a late start schedule for the purpose of providing 60-90 minutes of prayer time. For each session, faculty and staff are provided with 3-4 prayer options: lectio divina, prayer through movement (tai chi), meditation prayer (imagination), prayer through music.

Rationale: As a faith community, it is important that we provide time for people to pray within the community. We believe that offering people choices ensures that we’re providing a prayer experience that fits people’s needs.

Leadership: While Matt Barmore coordinates the dates and times, the key is finding people who are experienced at leading others in various prayer experiences.

Implementation: As noted in the description, this practice takes place four times throughout the school year.

Processes and Resources: No special resources are required. Prayer leaders generally get a gift certificate.

Finances: Again, prayer leaders generally get a small gift certificate for their role. Total: $300/year

Rewards: No rewards. All faculty/staff are expected to participate.

Time (When/Length): Late starts are scheduled from 7:45 – 9:15 but on those days we offer the prayer experiences, we generally begin at 8am and finish by 9.

Location (Space): Different parts of the campus are used, depending on the experience. The lectio divina prayer group generally meets in the chapel. If the prayer involves movement (tai chi), we may use the outside courtyard, depending on the weather.

Accountability/Assessment: There is no formal assessment of the program.