My wife was raised in a Baptist church. They taught her you don’t “say” prayers. You pray from the heart.
I learned that while they may not be “saying” the Lord’s Prayer (the Our Father) they still had formulas or templates for prayers.
To me, it was a moot point.
Last night I contemplated what goes through my mind as we pray the Lord’s Prayer during church service.
I turn the center of my attention toward God.
I contemplate the meaning of the Kingdom being around me and in me.
I am thankful for that which sustains me every day—food, shelter, people.
I feel forgiveness and think of those I need to forgive.
What temptations drew my attention yesterday?
I am thankful for protection from evil temptations that arise from within.
My attention returns to center on God.
And I agree with God as God intended.
I’m sure there are times we recite the words from memory with just the comfort of ritual. As for me, I like the series of reminders of that which is important. It’s a good way to start and end a day.
Faith Venture 
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