Journey with #DDYOP
The diocese’s Year of 24–7 Prayer has got off to an amazing start in East Belfast and the journey continues. As we go to press the scroll is with Orangefield until 23 January (see one of their prayer stations pictured right). What’s particularly exciting is the feedback we’ve received from the prayer rooms. Here are comments from the first five to have held the scroll – IN REVERSE ORDER – and don’t forget to tweet at the hashtag #DDYOP.
St Columba’s 17–20 January
“The beautiful surrounding of St. Columba’s, the soft playing of the organ and the simplicity of the informal services provided a truly inspirational background for prayer. In the midst of busy days the passage of time seemed irrelevant. To experience the church in a new way was re–energising. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of something special and inclusive.”
St Donards 14–17 January
“We have been delighted with the response and have found it a very inspiring experience. The feedback comments people have posted have been encouraging and one said, ‘We should do this more often!’”
St Clements 11–14 January
“Every slot day and night filled for the 3 days – a great accomplishment for a little group like St Clements.”
“Everyone stayed longer than the time they signed up for and some couldn’t get enough of the place.”
“Using the church added an extra dimension. The atmosphere was very different to a Sunday with lots of noise, music and chatter – lots of people fell in love with the place again.”
Ballymacarrett 4–11 January
“Many people came forward to fill the hours and in a largely elderly church I was amazed, and humbled by the response.”“a place of peace a place of nearness to God is the single most common thread in the experience of those who prayed.”
“The only problem is that the need for more prayer slots cannot be met.”
“The desire now is to continue with this place of nearness and already we are talking about a monthly 24/7 event.”
The Dock 1–4 January
“It’s just been amazing”
“People surprised by prayer
“People really enjoyed Prayer”“From how on earth is this going to work to amazed and encouraged.”