Daily Prayer Rhythm

Lent is one of the oldest rhythms in the Christian tradition. For centuries, followers of Jesus have marked these forty days as a season of preparation, repentance, and renewal. Lent is about making space to tell the truth about our lives, to notice our hunger for God, and to be slowly formed by grace.

Historically, Lent was the season when new believers prepared for baptism, and the whole church renewed its commitment to the way of Christ. It has always been communal as much as personal; a shared turning toward the God who is always already moving toward us.

As part of our developing Congregational Way of Life, we’re inviting Central Vineyard into a very simple rhythm of daily prayer this Lent. This guide isn’t meant to add pressure or complexity. Think of it less as something to “get right” and more as a gentle structure that helps us stay available to God in the midst of ordinary life.

Morning (when your feet hit the floor)

“Come, Holy Spirit.
Cleanse what is unclean.
Water what is parched.
Heal what is wounded."

Let this be your first act of the day; an opening of your life to God’s presence before the day's noise begins.

Midday

“Our Father in heaven…”

Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly and attentively. Allow its familiar words to re-center you in the middle of whatever the day is holding.

Evening

“Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

This ancient prayer teaches humility and trust. It reminds us that mercy is not something we earn, but something we receive.

End of Day

“Into your hands…”

Spend about ten minutes with the Prayer of Examen. Review the day with God. Give thanks. Notice where you felt close to God and where you felt distant. Offer it all back into God’s care as you rest. If this practice is new to you, we’ve linked a short teaching that introduces the Examen and how to pray it.

Throughout the Day

“Thy will be done.”

When you feel resistance or interruption, let it become an invitation rather than an obstacle. Lent is about returning again and again to the God who meets us with patience, mercy, and love.

We especially encourage our Central Communities to hold this rhythm together; to talk about what feels life-giving, what feels challenging, and what you’re noticing in yourselves and in God. Formation happens best when it’s shared.

May this season shape us into a people more attentive to God, more honest about ourselves, and more deeply rooted in the life of Christ.