Taking time to pray for one another during a private conversation can greatly renew and strengthen us inwardly. It is a wonderful practice for couples, family members, and spiritual friends. I like to take the hands of the other person. Out of the silence, first one, then the other of us might pray aloud, as moved. The words can be simple. For example, I might pray, “Thank you, God, for my dear friend, for her support and kindness to me and so many people. I know you are with her today and every day. May she feel your loving presence sustaining her, especially during her upcoming meeting.” Although this thought can be “spoken” silently in the heart with genuine effect, speaking it aloud can often help the other person be more receptive to God’s loving presence.
Praying in groups can be a powerfully healing and supportive practice as well. I first experienced this at a gathering of Quakers in Pastoral Care and Counseling. During the retreat, we met in small groups several times and got to know one another well. On the final morning there was an opportunity to hold one another in the Light. A chair was placed in the middle of our small circle and each person was invited to take a turn there. I felt alarmed about being the center of such attention, surrounded by Friends sitting very close, some with knees touching mine, some with hands upon me. Then my fear and resistance fell away and I felt lovingly held in a way I had not experienced before. The words of prayer I heard moved me profoundly and made me feel known and cared for. I experienced warmth and an inner sense of light. Tears came. Soon another person took a turn, but the experience left me forever changed. I carried from the conference the memory of Friends who had heard my story, accepted me, and commended me to God. Their closeness during the prayer, their hands upon me, and the tender words they said were like a shawl wrapped around me. During the coming year I recalled the memory of being held in the Light by that small group. It helped me love and accept myself and feel sustained by God.
–Marcelle Martin in Pendle Hill Pamphlet 382: Holding One Another in the Light