Ever heard of “popcorn prayers”?

That’s when someone begins the group prayer by introducing the theme and in no particular order, others add to it with one word. It goes fast or slow while coming from different parts of the room.

Using prayer prompts can help put everyone at ease about praying out loud or teach someone how to talk to God for the first time or could even be used as a guide for journaling.

Here is a variation of the popcorn prayer idea by Doug Kamstra [1. The Praying Church Idea Book]. Give people time to reflect on each phrase and to respond out loud -or it might work best silently if the group is huge (hum…quiet popcorn?).

Either way, give instructions beforehand on which you want the group to do.

Open with a brief prayer, thanking God for the opportunity to pray together.
“God, I thank You for_________
God, I love You because_________
God, I celebrate You because________
God, I need Your_______
God, help me to be more_______
God,thank You for being________”
Close with a brief prayer.

Why not try it this week at your next HoPE meeting or family devotion? Go for out loud if with family and friends. Use this one or adapt your own as The Spirit leads.

Have a wonderful week!

How has using the “popcorn prayer” format helped your prayer meeting? Have you tried using this outline above? When? How has it contributed to your prayer life?