How do I write an opening prayer?

As part of the opening sequence of a worship service, (see also Call to Worship, God's Greeting, Passing of the Peace, and Words of Welcome), the opening prayer can be a part of the corporate worship service, part of the preparation of the leadership team, and/or a private prayer by a worshiper in the congregation.

These prayers can take on many forms, sometimes all in one prayer:

• Prayer of adoration
• Prayer of invocation
• Prayers for God's leading
• Prayers for a calming of the heart
• Prayers for God to use participants' gifts for his glory
• Prayers of centering

Sometimes these prayers are scripted, but often they are spontaneous.

Opening prayers in the Bible

• Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable"
• Psalm 43:3–5, "O send out your light and your truth"
• Psalm 51:15–17, "O Lord, open my lips"
• Psalm 90, "Lord, you have been our dwelling-place in all generations"
• Ephesians 3:16–21, may we be strengthened through the Spirit and may Christ dwell in your hearts
• Philippians 2:5–11, pray to be like Christ, who humbled himself in obedience