Why pray? I’m not asking why pray on your own, as it’s almost a given, across the spectrum of beliefs, that talking to Someone Out There (as opposed to talking to yourself!) is beneficial, whether you only do it when you’re in trouble or as part of your daily routine.

I’m asking why do we pray together in numbers?

This question is prompted by the fact that earlier this month a coachload of us from around Cumbria joined more than 2,000 people in Birmingham, at the heart of the nation, to pray for the United Kingdom.

There is something about coming together as one that lifts the spirit, but I believe there’s much more to it than that.

The Jewish King David wrote, many centuries ago: “In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are eternal pleasures.”

When we pray we consciously enter God’s presence, and that is where we belong, that is what we were created for, that is where we are in our natural element.

If this is not your experience may I respectfully suggest that you try the right door? Jesus said: “I tell you the truth, I am the door…whoever enters through me will be saved.”

Chrissie Greaves

Association of Christian Writers, Cumbria