Not only are individual prayers important for the health of the church, but also corporate prayer as well.  Our Men's Prayer brings the guys together in camaraderie which I feel is very necessary.  We all need somebody behind us, upholding us to the Lord.  It develops stronger bonds between us and helps us get to know one another better.  There are about fifteen of us that meet, representing a variety of ages and stages of life.  More are always welcome.  Our leader is very good at ensuring that we start promptly at 6 a.m.  Our purpose is to pray for one another and the needs within the church, not use valuable prayer time talking about the ball game on TV the night before.  This is not gossip time.  We are encouraged to keep our prayers short but certainly expressive of the immediate needs.  As different guys pray, you're able to keep in contact with what's happening in the church, for instance-- prayer for an absent person or health issues.  Not everyone has to pray; there is no pressure.  You can be praying silently in accordance with the others.  We see answers to prayer which is encouraging and keeps us returning.  We conclude between 6:55 a.m. and 7 a.m. so that those who need to leave for work can do so.

After prayer, the men usually meet at a local restaurant for breakfast together.  That's when the ball games are talked about and the hunting stories begin!