Thursday, March 6, 2025
We also constantly give thanks to God for this, that when you received the word of God that you heard from us you accepted it not as a human word but as what it really is, God’s word, which is also at work in you believers. ~ 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Written by Emily Garzolini | Elder
I recently attended a Presbyterian church service in New York City. At the end of each pew was a pouch with slips of paper and pencils; these were passed down the row and everyone was encouraged to write prayers of need or thanksgiving. As the offering plates were passed, they asked us to put our prayer requests in the plate. At the end of the service, everyone was invited to take a slip of paper and to spend time during the week praying for one of their fellow worshippers.
Upon reflection, I realized how often we come to church seeking connection and comfort. We come with our struggles, our joys, and our hopes—but sometimes we leave feeling like we’ve worshipped alone, even if we’re surrounded by others. This simple act of sharing prayer requests and committing to pray for someone else reminded me that the church is not just a place to worship, but a community where we are called to carry each other’s burdens.
In that moment, I wasn’t just a stranger; I was part of something bigger, something deeply rooted in love and unity. This experience reminded me that church is meant to be a support system, where we lift each other up and hold each other in prayer, no matter how unfamiliar we may be to one another.
Prayer: Lord, guide us into greater community where we can love and support one another. Amen.