This is a suggested outline if you need help getting started with the prayer vigil. Just remember that there is no better guide to prayer than the Holy Spirit! Ask Him to help and the hour will fly by! Thank you for loving these men for the sake of Christ.

Begin by asking God to clear your mind of all outside distractions. Place all of your thoughts and your spirit with the people and the event you have come to Him to bless.

Be silent for a few seconds and begin to feel His presence with you. Pray as if you are talking to your best friend . . . you are! Ask Him to bless with His spirit the buildings, grounds and all things used to bring those present to an awareness of Him.

Pray for the Rector, if not by name, by duty. He must walk in His spirit for anything that he may be called upon to solve. Pray he may have the courage to keep the purity of the event and to not let personalities keep the team from doing what they promised God they would do.

Pray for the assistant rectors in much the same way.

Pray for the clergy coordinator that he may truly be an instrument of His spirit.

Pray for the other members of the clergy in much the same way.

Pray for the speakers. Pray that they remember Whom they represent, that they lay down self and glorify God.

Pray for the talks, the message each is to give, for the giver and for each man who hears, that they may hear according to their need.

Pray for the musicians, that their music may bring God’s message, and soothe troubled souls.

Pray for the residents by name:

-The ones who cannot leave their world and thoughts behind
-The ones uneasy in the setting
-Those coming only for the change of pace
-The ones coming only to make trouble
-The ones looking for magic, not miracles
-Those who are open and receiving
-The ones in the grip of the evil one, that they may call to the Father
-For all the conditions known to God.

Pray for the resident servants, outside servants, and all who minister in unrecognized ways.

Pray for the fun and fellowship that will warm hearts and keep the focus on God.

Pray for the table workers and servants, that they do not tire. Pray for their renewed strength.

Pray for all of the agape gifts, for the hands that made them, and the blessing they bring.

Pray for the special times such as: chapel, meditations, closing, etc.

Pray for the work of the Holy Spirit, that Christ be glorified, and the Father’s will is done.

And lastly, give it all to our Lord and Friend, Who sees and knows, asking for His blessing and presence with everyone connected – not only those mentioned, but families, and the change for the prison, staff, and all communities touched by those touched by the Master.

End by praising and thanking God for the opportunity He has given you to talk to Him on behalf of His children. AMEN

Adapted from “Praying the Prayer Vigil” (John McKinney, NW Texas Walk to Emmaus) by John Gladin