Prayer

Many places of worship consider prayer a central part of their activities and pastoral care. This should be done sensitively, responsibly, and only by those appointed by the leadership to do so.

It is important to make people aware, especially Parents/Carers of any children or young people who attend your activities, that prayer is part of your activities and that sometimes you may pray together as a group or with individuals at their request.

All those involved in prayer ministry should know how to respond to any safeguarding concerns.

When praying you should:

• Get the persons permission before you pray with them (or from a Parent/carer).
• Pray in an open area where other leaders are around.
• Be aware of safeguarding concerns and don’t delay in taking action.
• Reflect back what the person has said to show you have understood their prayer request.
• Use clear uncomplicated language and keep prayers simple so they can be understood.
• Avoid giving specific advice about problems involving decisions and never advise someone to stop taking medication or receiving professional support for their care or welfare.
• Stop if the person becomes distressed.
• Never pressure someone into receiving prayer.
• Never promise total confidentiality.

Praying with children and young people

• Where there is a general invitation to receive prayer as part of a service or event, have children’s workers available to pray with the children/young people.
• If someone requests that their child doesn’t participate in prayer, this must be respected.
• It can be helpful to write down what you have prayed about and give it to the child so that, if they want, they can let their parents/carers know and remember it themselves.
• Avoid praying ‘in tongues’ or any other language different from the child’s own as this can be confusing and alarming.
• A child or young person can be very susceptible to suggestion, so even if you believe you have heard from God about their situation, talk this through with another leader first before talking about this with the child.
• Avoid any physical contact as much as possible, such as putting your hand on their head. If you think they may appreciate some physical reassurance or comfort, always ask their consent first e.g. an arm around the shoulder.

Things to consider

Think about your body language, particularly in relation to things like your height and the height of the person you are praying for. Try to ensure you are on their level rather than standing over them e.g. by both of you sitting.

Some places of worship believe that a child can have an evil spirit or be 'possessed' when they display behaviours or are different in some way. A child should never be told they are demonised, possessed or oppressed by the devil or evil spirits.

Any religious, traditional or cultural practices such as prayers for deliverance or exorcism that cause significant harm to a child are a criminal offence and cannot be justified. Statutory authorities may investigate and take appropriate action to protect any children involved.


Suggested Training: Safeguarding in Pastoral Ministry - thirtyone:eight Training