Last week, I had the opportunity to share about prayer with a group of ladies at church. It was as much a time to learn and listen for me as I imagine that it was for them — a time to unburden our hearts and unite our voices as we expressed our thanks and concerns to the Father.

With another school year starting, with me plugging away at edits on my upcoming memoir, with work to do on the house and a hearth to build before winter, and friends and family who are struggling with health issues, I am never at a lack of concerns over which to pray.

The lack comes from my own inadequacy. From my faintness of heart. From my want of consistency and imagination. From my frequently flagging faith. That is why I find it so helpful to pray with others. For a pattern, I used a method modeled by author Rachel Britton at this summer’s New England Christian Writers Retreat. Britton has a wonderful way of praying from scripture, reading a verse, pausing for the addition of personal thoughts, and proceeding with the words that follow. When you aren’t sure how to get started, it’s a great help.

For our church group, I chose the Lord’s Prayer, found in Matthew 6:9-13.” “Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name,” I began and stopped, allowing any to add their praises, silently or aloud.

“Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” What worries do you carry? What decisions are you struggling with? Add them here.

“Give us this day our daily bread.” What needs do you have?

“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” For what do you need forgiveness? Who do you need to forgive?

“And do not bring us into the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one.” What difficulties do you face? What trials are faced by those you love? Your coworkers? Your country?

Deepening our connection to scripture deepens our faith. As we prayed, I felt my own burdens lift. Returning to our homes, we each carried a lavender index card on which we’d written one another’s prayer needs. I propped mine in my kitchen window above my sink to pray over as I wash dishes.

Living in a time of history where what’s new often attracts the most attention only to fade when it is quickly replaced by something newer, we are often better sticking to basics. The original way is often the most vital way. And, in a time when the stakes have never been higher, what could be more vital than praying as Christ taught his disciples?

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Meadow Rue Merrill writes and reflects on God’s presence in her ordinary life from a little house in the big woods of Mid-coast Maine. Her memoir, “Redeeming Ruth,” releases in May 2017. Find her at meadowrue.com.