{"id":586666,"date":"2025-12-14T01:40:24","date_gmt":"2025-12-14T00:40:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/"},"modified":"2025-12-14T01:40:24","modified_gmt":"2025-12-14T00:40:24","slug":"the-prayer-family","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/","title":{"rendered":"The prayer family: essential, practical guide with 7 key steps"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_prayer_family_meaning_practice_and_benefits\"><\/span>Understanding the prayer family: meaning, practice and benefits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The phrase \u201cthe prayer family\u201d describes a household that intentionally makes shared prayer part of everyday life. Rather than a complicated programme, it is a simple, steady rhythm in which adults, young people and children pause together to reflect, give thanks, ask for help and strengthen their relationships. Whether you follow a particular faith tradition or are curious about spiritual habits at home, the prayer family offers a gentle, practical way to cultivate peace, resilience and connection.<\/p>\n<p>In an age of hurried schedules and constant screens, the prayer family helps people slow down and check in with one another. It invites a few quiet minutes at the breakfast table, a brief pause before bed, or a weekly moment to mark joys and sorrows. Over time, these small rituals shape family culture, improving communication and deepening trust. This article explains what the prayer family is, why it matters, and how to begin\u2014step by step, without pressure.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_prayer_family\"><\/span>What is the prayer family?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>At its simplest, the prayer family is a household that chooses to pray together regularly. The form of prayer can be formal or informal, spoken or silent, structured or spontaneous. What counts is the shared intent: to bring the household\u2019s daily life\u2014its hopes, worries, gratitude and decisions\u2014into a short, sacred space.<\/p>\n<p>Different traditions approach it differently. Some families use set words from a prayer book or liturgy; others share a sentence of thanks and a sentence of request; others sit quietly for a minute or two. Many combine approaches so that everyone can participate. The prayer family is less about perfect words and more about creating a dependable moment where each person is heard and held with care.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Core_principles_of_the_prayer_family\"><\/span>Core principles of the prayer family<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Consistency over length: a few minutes most days beats a long session once in a while.<\/li>\n<li>Accessibility: use language and formats that suit all ages and abilities in the home.<\/li>\n<li>Hospitality: hold space for questions, doubt, laughter and silence.<\/li>\n<li>Respect: no one is shamed for praying differently\u2014or for choosing to listen quietly.<\/li>\n<li>Connection: link the practice with everyday life, not just special occasions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_the_prayer_family_matters_today\"><\/span>Why the prayer family matters today<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Family life is often stretched by work, school pressures and financial strains. The prayer family introduces a daily pause that can reduce stress and improve communication. Sharing gratitude is known to lift mood; naming worries can stop them spiralling. The psychological value of spiritual practices\u2014including prayer and reflection\u2014has been recognised in health guidance, such as the Royal College of Psychiatrists\u2019 overview of spirituality and wellbeing. See the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcpsych.ac.uk\/mental-health\/treatments-and-wellbeing\/spirituality-and-mental-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal College of Psychiatrists\u2019 page on spirituality and mental health<\/a> for a balanced summary.<\/p>\n<p>There are relational benefits too. Children observe that adults also need help and are learning. Parents learn what matters most to their teenagers. Couples remember to appreciate one another out loud. Over time, the prayer family strengthens belonging, making the home a place where burdens are shared and achievements are celebrated.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_start_the_prayer_family_in_your_home\"><\/span>How to start the prayer family in your home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Starting small is the secret. The prayer family does not require perfect schedules or ornate words. Begin with a time that already exists\u2014after dinner, before the school run, at bedtime\u2014and add a simple, repeatable pattern.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Setting_a_simple_rhythm\"><\/span>Setting a simple rhythm<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Choose one consistent daily slot, aiming for 3\u20135 minutes. Begin with a short opening line (for example, \u201cLet\u2019s be still together\u201d), invite one sentence of gratitude from each person, a brief silence, then one sentence asking help for someone or something. End with a phrase you all learn over time (\u201cAmen\u201d, \u201cThanks be to God\u201d, \u201cThank you for today\u201d). This tiny rhythm allows the prayer family to be dependable without becoming a chore.<\/p>\n<p>Once the habit feels natural, you can experiment\u2014lighting a candle, playing a quiet instrumental track, or reading a short text that inspires you. If the household includes very young children, you may prefer movement (a simple action song or hand gesture) before a short quiet moment.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Making_space_and_choosing_resources\"><\/span>Making space and choosing resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Pick a spot that feels calm: the dining table, a corner of the living room, or a quiet hallway. Keep a small box with a candle or nightlight, a notebook for requests and thanks, and any resources you use. If your tradition uses set prayers, you might draw from those. If you would like a structured daily pattern, the Church of England provides free services of morning and evening prayer at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.churchofengland.org\/prayer-and-worship\/join-us-daily-prayer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Join us in Daily Prayer<\/a>, which many families adapt at home.<\/p>\n<p>For those who prefer a contemporary reflective approach, movements such as 24-7 Prayer offer accessible guides and simple daily readings\u2014see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.24-7prayer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">24-7 Prayer resources<\/a> for ideas you can tailor to your household.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Including_children_and_teens\"><\/span>Including children and teens<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Young children benefit from repetition and participation. Rotate simple roles\u2014lighting the candle, saying the opening line, or choosing the closing phrase. Offer a \u201cprayer basket\u201d with pictures or objects (a small globe, a heart, a school badge) that children can hold when they share.<\/p>\n<p>Teenagers may prefer privacy, so keep group moments short and meaningful. Invite them to write a line in the family notebook if they do not want to speak aloud. Let them suggest music or a reading. The prayer family works best when everyone\u2019s voice is valued without coercion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_not_everyone_believes\"><\/span>When not everyone believes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many households include mixed beliefs. The prayer family can still work if you frame it as a moment of reflection that honours each person\u2019s conscience. Offer options: \u201cYou\u2019re welcome to pray in your own words, sit in silence, or express a hope for the week.\u201d Avoid debates in the prayer time itself; keep it a safe space for presence and listening. Conversations about beliefs can happen at other times when people are ready.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prayers_formats_and_examples_for_the_prayer_family\"><\/span>Prayers, formats and examples for the prayer family<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here are sample formats you can adapt. Keep them short; the aim is confidence and consistency, not performance.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"One-minute_daily\"><\/span>One-minute daily<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Opening line: \u201cWe pause to be present together.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Round of gratitude: each person shares one thing they\u2019re thankful for.<\/li>\n<li>Brief silence (10\u201320 seconds).<\/li>\n<li>Round of request: each person names one person or situation they\u2019d like to support.<\/li>\n<li>Closing line: \u201cMay we be kind and courageous today. Amen.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Five-minute_evening\"><\/span>Five-minute evening<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Light a candle. One person reads a short text (a verse, poem, or wise saying).<\/li>\n<li>Reflect: \u201cWhat was life-giving today?\u201d \u201cWhat was difficult?\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Quiet: 30\u201360 seconds.<\/li>\n<li>Shared prayer or spoken hopes for tomorrow.<\/li>\n<li>Closing: a blessing or simple gesture (hand on shoulder, a shared look).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Weekly_check-in_10_minutes\"><\/span>Weekly check-in (10 minutes)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Look back: share one highlight and one challenge from the week.<\/li>\n<li>Notebook: write names or situations you\u2019re praying for in the coming days.<\/li>\n<li>Pray together, or simply keep silence for a minute.<\/li>\n<li>Plan a kind action your household will take for someone else this week.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Using_set_prayers_for_those_who_want_them\"><\/span>Using set prayers (for those who want them)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Some families appreciate the steadiness of set words. You can use a short form from your tradition, or a simple pattern like: \u201cThank you for today. We are sorry for where we fell short. Please help us tomorrow.\u201d If you\u2019re curious about the broad concept of prayer across cultures and religions, the overview on <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wikipedia\u2019s article on prayer<\/a> is a helpful, neutral starting point.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_obstacles_and_how_the_prayer_family_overcomes_them\"><\/span>Common obstacles and how the prayer family overcomes them<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Every household hits bumps. Here are the most frequent and what to do about them.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<div id='video-container' data-video-id='DMfnABO1q8Q' style='width:100%; height:auto; max-width:587px; position: relative;'>\n<div class='image-video-plugin' style='background:url(\"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/DMfnABO1q8Q\/0.jpg\") center no-repeat; background-size: cover;'><\/div>\n<p>        <span class='youtube-play-button'><\/span><br \/>\n        <noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=DMfnABO1q8Q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/noscript>\n    <\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CWe_forget_or_get_too_busy%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u201cWe forget or get too busy.\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Link prayer to an existing habit\u2014tea time, brushing teeth, school run. Use a phone reminder. Keep it to one or two minutes when life is hectic; consistency is the goal.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CIt_feels_awkward%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u201cIt feels awkward.\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>New practices often do. Agree a short script for week one so no one has to improvise. Awkwardness fades as the prayer family forms its own familiar flow.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CThe_children_wont_sit_still%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u201cThe children won\u2019t sit still.\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Let them move. Use actions, a short song, or a tactile object. Make it shorter. Celebrate participation more than stillness.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CWe_disagree_about_what_prayer_means%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u201cWe disagree about what prayer means.\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Frame the time as shared reflection. Offer multiple modes: spoken prayer, silent attention, or naming a hope or value. The prayer family is a bridge, not a battleground.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CIt_fizzles_after_a_few_weeks%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u201cIt fizzles after a few weeks.\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Refresh gently: change location, invite a friend or grandparent to join once, swap who leads, try a new closing line for a month. Small tweaks keep the practice alive.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Measuring_growth_in_the_prayer_family_without_pressure\"><\/span>Measuring growth in the prayer family without pressure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s tempting to \u201cgrade\u201d family spirituality. Resist. Instead, notice signs of growth that matter: more honest conversation, quicker reconciliation after disagreements, increased gratitude, a habit of thinking about others. Keep a monthly page in the family notebook: \u201cWhat are we thankful for?\u201d and \u201cHow have we cared for others?\u201d These markers show the prayer family taking root without turning it into a test.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Linking_the_prayer_family_with_the_wider_community\"><\/span>Linking the prayer family with the wider community<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Practices at home often deepen when connected to a wider community. If you belong to a local church, mosque, synagogue or temple, look for family-friendly opportunities to pray, serve or learn together. Many Christian families find it helpful to weave in short readings from daily services such as the Church of England\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.churchofengland.org\/prayer-and-worship\/join-us-daily-prayer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Daily Prayer<\/a>, adapting the language for children. Others appreciate contemporary guides such as those from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.24-7prayer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">24-7 Prayer<\/a>, which offer simple prompts for households.<\/p>\n<p>If you are exploring the wider significance of spiritual practices for wellbeing, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcpsych.ac.uk\/mental-health\/treatments-and-wellbeing\/spirituality-and-mental-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal College of Psychiatrists\u2019 guidance on spirituality<\/a> offers evidence-informed perspective. Use resources as helpers, not hurdles\u2014the prayer family grows best when tools serve your context, not the other way around.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommended_external_resources\"><\/span>Recommended external resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.churchofengland.org\/prayer-and-worship\/join-us-daily-prayer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Church of England: Daily Prayer (free liturgies and readings)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.24-7prayer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">24-7 Prayer: practical ideas and app-based resources for everyday prayer<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcpsych.ac.uk\/mental-health\/treatments-and-wellbeing\/spirituality-and-mental-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal College of Psychiatrists: spirituality and mental health overview<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wikipedia: general introduction to the concept of prayer<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_articles\"><\/span>Related articles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/what-is-a-godfather\/\">what a godfather does<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/you-are-the-salt-of-the-earth\/\">living as the salt of the earth<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_the_prayer_family\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about the prayer family<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_often_should_the_prayer_family_meet\"><\/span>How often should the prayer family meet?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Daily is ideal, but start with what you can sustain. Many households begin with once a day for one minute and build from there. The key is consistency\u2014better a brief, steady rhythm than ambitious plans that quickly stall.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_someone_in_the_family_is_not_comfortable_praying_out_loud\"><\/span>What if someone in the family is not comfortable praying out loud?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Offer alternatives: a moment of silence, writing a line in the notebook, or simply saying \u201cpass\u201d. The prayer family is an invitation, not a requirement. Over time, people often contribute in ways that suit them.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_we_use_digital_tools_to_help\"><\/span>Can we use digital tools to help?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes\u2014timers, reminders and simple apps can support your rhythm. Some families use a short daily reading on a phone or smart speaker, then switch devices off to be fully present. Keep technology a servant, not the centrepiece.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_we_include_very_young_children\"><\/span>How do we include very young children?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Keep it short and sensory. Try a call-and-response line, a simple action (hands over heart), or a picture they can hold while sharing. Celebrate any participation, and don\u2019t worry about fidgeting.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_we_do_when_life_is_chaotic_or_were_travelling\"><\/span>What should we do when life is chaotic or we\u2019re travelling?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Have a \u201cminimal mode\u201d: one sentence of thanks, one sentence of help, and a shared \u201cAmen.\u201d You can do this in a car, a hotel, or the kitchen while packing lunches. The minimal mode keeps the prayer family alive until routine returns.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_on_the_prayer_family\"><\/span>Conclusion on the prayer family<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The heart of the prayer family is simple: a household chooses a small daily pause to be present, grateful and honest together. No single script or schedule is required. By keeping the practice short, kind and consistent, you create a dependable thread that weaves through busy days and changing seasons.<\/p>\n<p>As you experiment, let resources support rather than burden you, and adapt the rhythm to your ages, personalities and beliefs. Measure growth not by perfect attendance, but by deepening trust, quicker forgiveness and a widening circle of care.<\/p>\n<p>Start today with the smallest possible step: one shared minute. Over weeks and months, that minute becomes a meaningful habit. In this steady, gentle way, the prayer family strengthens bonds, nurtures wellbeing and anchors the home in hope.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_87_1 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Tabla de contenidos<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Alternar tabla de contenidos\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Understanding_the_prayer_family_meaning_practice_and_benefits\" >Understanding the prayer family: meaning, practice and benefits<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#What_is_the_prayer_family\" >What is the prayer family?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Core_principles_of_the_prayer_family\" >Core principles of the prayer family<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Why_the_prayer_family_matters_today\" >Why the prayer family matters today<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#How_to_start_the_prayer_family_in_your_home\" >How to start the prayer family in your home<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Setting_a_simple_rhythm\" >Setting a simple rhythm<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Making_space_and_choosing_resources\" >Making space and choosing resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Including_children_and_teens\" >Including children and teens<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#When_not_everyone_believes\" >When not everyone believes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Prayers_formats_and_examples_for_the_prayer_family\" >Prayers, formats and examples for the prayer family<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#One-minute_daily\" >One-minute daily<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Five-minute_evening\" >Five-minute evening<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Weekly_check-in_10_minutes\" >Weekly check-in (10 minutes)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Using_set_prayers_for_those_who_want_them\" >Using set prayers (for those who want them)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Common_obstacles_and_how_the_prayer_family_overcomes_them\" >Common obstacles and how the prayer family overcomes them<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#%E2%80%9CWe_forget_or_get_too_busy%E2%80%9D\" >\u201cWe forget or get too busy.\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#%E2%80%9CIt_feels_awkward%E2%80%9D\" >\u201cIt feels awkward.\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#%E2%80%9CThe_children_wont_sit_still%E2%80%9D\" >\u201cThe children won\u2019t sit still.\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#%E2%80%9CWe_disagree_about_what_prayer_means%E2%80%9D\" >\u201cWe disagree about what prayer means.\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#%E2%80%9CIt_fizzles_after_a_few_weeks%E2%80%9D\" >\u201cIt fizzles after a few weeks.\u201d<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Measuring_growth_in_the_prayer_family_without_pressure\" >Measuring growth in the prayer family without pressure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Linking_the_prayer_family_with_the_wider_community\" >Linking the prayer family with the wider community<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Recommended_external_resources\" >Recommended external resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Related_articles\" >Related articles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_the_prayer_family\" >Frequently asked questions about the prayer family<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#How_often_should_the_prayer_family_meet\" >How often should the prayer family meet?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#What_if_someone_in_the_family_is_not_comfortable_praying_out_loud\" >What if someone in the family is not comfortable praying out loud?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Can_we_use_digital_tools_to_help\" >Can we use digital tools to help?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#How_do_we_include_very_young_children\" >How do we include very young children?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#What_should_we_do_when_life_is_chaotic_or_were_travelling\" >What should we do when life is chaotic or we\u2019re travelling?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/the-prayer-family\/#Conclusion_on_the_prayer_family\" >Conclusion on the prayer family<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understanding the prayer family: meaning, practice and benefits The phrase \u201cthe prayer family\u201d describes a household that intentionally makes shared prayer part of everyday life. Rather than a complicated programme, it is a simple, steady rhythm in which adults, young people and children pause together to reflect, give thanks, ask for help and strengthen their &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":586667,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10462],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-586666","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-religion"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/586666","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=586666"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/586666\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/586667"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=586666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=586666"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pflegeboard.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=586666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}