As we continue to look at how to remain connected to our church family and our community while staying somewhat physically distanced from one another a great option is something called prayer walking. Prayer walking is the concept of walking through a neighborhood or community and praying for the people, businesses and homes you pass on your walk.

Prayer walking can be done by an individual, couple, family or team. Even in this age when we need to remain socially (I do prefer physically) distanced from one another, we can walk and talk and pray while still maintaining all necessary spacial requirements. Here’s how it works…

First you should start by selecting a neighborhood or community area near where you live. The proximity is important because it gives you some credibility. As you walk and pray for your neighbors they’ll see you. They might even ask you a question about what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. This is a great witness opportunity!

Second, gather your family or group together who will walk with you. Before you start walking the neighborhood, meet somewhere and pray together. You can pray at your required 6 foot distance. You can pray in groups on the phone or by FaceTime. There are a plethora of options for how to do this.

Third you strategically make your way around the development or community center. If you’re with people in your home, then you can all go together. If you’re planning on going around with other members of your church or small group, then each of you walk on opposite sides of the street or take different blocks. You’ll also want to set regular check in points so you can debrief periodically throughout the walk.

Keep in mind as you walk around the area for opportunities to engage in conversation with people in their lawns or out on a walk. Let them know what you’re doing if they ask. Ask if they have prayer requests and pray for them on the spot.

Finally, as you finish the prayer walk jot down some notes on what you saw and any conversations in which you were able to engage. If you made contact with anyone directly, be sure to have a follow up strategy. Make sure to come back to this area in a few weeks to walk again so the members of this community see you as a staple on their streets.