Anyone who ever wondered about the power of prayer may want to visit Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Huntersville on Wednesday nights.
The congregation has begun a series of Bible study classes dedicated to the principles of prayer, how to hear from God and experience a relationship in Christ.
“Whether you know all about prayer, are sometimes confused about how to pray or simply haven’t put much thought into it, your life will change,” said minister LaShaun Hamilton, who teaches the class.
When it comes to understanding prayer, she said, it starts with a basic understanding of a higher being at work.
Hamilton said the series will focus on topics such as prayer positions and the various types of prayer.
“I don’t want anyone to put God in a box,” she said. “He’s so far beyond us that there is no certain way to pray.”
Classes are divided into two parts. Part 1 will discuss what prayer is, what it does, types of prayer, how to pray and reasons for praying. Part 2 will explore forgiveness, humbling oneself before God, fasting, binding and giving and God’s will.
University City resident Sharon Shipman has attended the first four sessions and said she’s looking to gain a greater understanding of God.
“I want to have a more personal relationship (with Him), instead of treating God like a genie in a lamp,” she said.
Shipman, 39, said so far she has learned how prayer helps put things into perspective.
Everyone who attends receives a 55-page “The power of Prayer” manuscript created by Hamilton, a prayer box with a candle and prayer cards and a journal.
Hamilton said she’s unsure how long the sessions will last, but she expects them to continue throughout the year.
IF YOU WANT TO GO:
What: The Power of Prayer, Bible study series
When: 7 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 6101 Neck Road, Huntersville.
Contact: lashaunhamilton@yahoo.com
