I have joined a small Bible study group at work. The leader thinks at my age (84) I should be able to lead them in prayer. I'm not able. How do I learn to pray aloud?

There are a number of ways to increase confidence in praying publicly. First, think about why it is difficult to do so. Maybe it is just the need for practice -- so pray out loud at home throughout the day. Pray about anything and everything. Just practice.

Maybe writing out a variety of prayers will help you plan specific words to say. Write a variety of prayers. Then lay them aside and pray out loud at home, not trying to duplicate what you have written, but starting from the written prayers to give you thoughts and phrases to pray out loud.

Perhaps you are very introverted and would not be comfortable saying anything formal to a group. If so, then speak privately to leader so he or she will understand your discomfort. Or maybe this is a "growing place" for you and you just need to take a deep breath and let the words flow.

I have found that saying a brief prayer to God silently before leading a group prayer is helpful. Ask God for the words to say and wisdom to speak to those present. Let the words come from your heart and you will speak with sincerity.

May God give you the words to speak.

Blessings,
Mary Alice Gran
A Friend of Julian's

Julian of Norwich, a late fourteenth-century mystic and spiritual writer, chose to live a solitary life in a cell attached to the Church of Saint Julian in Norwich, England. Because Julian was known for her wisdom, seekers approached the window of her cell to ask her questions about Christian faith and practice.

Learn more about Julian by reading Encounter with God's Love: Selected Writings of Julian of Norwich from Upper Room Books.