The Phenomenology of Prayer: The Paradox of Prayer

Is prayer selfish? Some argue that prayer is private; it is between one person and God. The Lord's Prayer says "our Father," implying that He is everyone's God. Religion focuses on the community, not the individual. When in worship, we do it together as brothers and sisters. Our goal should be to grow together under a higher power, letting the bonds we create draw us closer to God. Isolating yourself from an honest community of prayer, alienates you from growing closer to others and to God. I agree that being in a loving, God-fearing community will challenge and benefit you, drawing you closer to your religion.

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