"It has been found that 12 minutes of daily focused prayer over an 8 week period can change the brain to such an extent that it can be measured on a brain scan."

Dr. Andrew Newberg is a neuroscientist who studies the relationship between brain function and various mental states. He is a pioneer in the neurological study of religious and spiritual experiences, a field known as “neurotheology.” His research includes taking brain scans of people in prayer, meditation, rituals, and trance states, in an attempt to better understand the nature of religious and spiritual practices and attitudes. 

Prayer changes lives, we know that, and now we have science to back it up. But it's not just those we are praying for - our lives can be changed by praying only 12 minutes a day for 8 weeks!

It is fascinating research which you can read more about here and here and watch in the video below.

If you don't already, I encourage you to develop a 12 minute a day prayer habit.

Below are some resources to help you.

• Lectio 365 is a great app that you can put on your phone, it's free and it has morning and evening prayers, all of which are about 12-15 minutes long. For more info click here or go to your Apple or Google store on your phone and look up Lectio 365. Or I can show you what it looks like on my phone, just ask me.

• The New Zealand Prayer Book is another great resource for daily prayers and that can also be accessed online here.

• The St Barnabas Prayer booklet - A printed copy is available from the parish office.

• And you don't have to do it on your own, why not get a prayer group together or a prayer buddy? You can get together in person, by zoom, facetime, or by phone, or pray as you walk together.

• Sitting in prayerful silence, meditating on God's word, or just focusing on Jesus. A candle, other symbol or a view of nature can help.

Try it for 8 weeks and let me know if you notice any changes. My prayer is that you will not stop at 8 weeks but make it a lifetime habit.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18