A House of Prayer by Thomas R. Steagald

A House of Prayer begins with a personal story: a moment of a deep sense of isolation and spiritual distress that gives way to a deep sense of abiding connectedness and community. That movement from isolation to serenity by means of praying together, spiritually or physically, is the emphasis of this book. Steagald believes that praying together allows the church to become “one,” as Jesus intended, and the “body” St. Paul described. The author incorporates memoir, travelogue, reflection on scripture, church history, and psychology as he builds a compelling case for congregations to put more focus on praying as a community.