Last week was the first time back to chapel for my little one and her classmates.  Everyone was in their chapel dress and, after watching them reverently and quietly walk in, I decided to stay instead of just dropping her off for school.  I found myself thinking it was the right way to start the day, and my spirit was refreshed just by sitting with the familiar feel of a wooden pew underneath me.  The sight of lit white candles in front of me added to the brightness of the early morning sun illuminating the beautiful stained glass.  Above me a large Celtic cross was suspended from the ceiling in the center of the altar.  I had unwittingly become peacefully present in this place of worship; first with myself, then with my surroundings, and then with God.  Maris’ teacher proceeded to go over church etiquette and explained we never put our feet on the kneelers.  I cannot tell you how many times in our own parish I have seen grown men slam them up lazily with their feet or watch people irreverently rest their dirty shoes on them.  Worthy of any seminary graduate, my little one’s teacher began showing them the basics of how to construct a prayer.  Of course I believe God hears our prayers regardless but I have always thought it was good to pray with mindful intention.  Feeling a bit like a school child again myself, I shall attempt to convey what she said and pray I have it correct.  She explained we put our hands together for several reasons.  First, our thumb is pointing toward our hearts.  We should begin with praise in our heart for God.  Second, our pointer finger may be used for confession.  I thought that was interesting, given that in almost every culture around the world that particular finger has been used to accuse others.  This serves to remind us to focus on our own sins and shortcomings instead of pointing to those outside ourselves.  Third, she said our center finger, the longest, should be used in gratitude for everything God has done for us.  How lovely; the longest part of prayer is to be dedicated to thanksgiving.  Fourth, our ring finger, is also the weakest.  I knew that to be true from taking karate.  This finger may be used as intercession:  our prayers for those in need, with the acknowledgement that we cannot do without God’s help.  Last, our pinky, the littlest finger, serves to represent the petitions we pray for ourselves; a humble reminder that we should place the needs of others before our own.  In Matthew 22:37 Jesus said:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”

Our clasped hands in total represent meditation; that we are listening for God.  And now, with our palms pressed together in front of our hearts, let us pray.