Prayer spaces are rooted in broadly Christian traditions of prayer, whilst allowing children and young people to respond individually and draw their own conclusions. Prayer spaces are rooted in the teachings and the ministry, the life and the example of Jesus.
Prayer spaces inspire a sense of awe and wonder in children and young people, about how they perceive themselves, how they relate with others, and how they engage with the world around them.
Prayer spaces encourage the development of the non-material aspect of human nature, sometimes called the spirit or soul. They allow space to engage with life’s ‘big questions’, in the quest for purpose and meaning, and in the development of a sense of identity, self-worth and personal insight.
Prayer spaces enable children and young people to interact in their own way with an environment of prayer that includes opportunities to experience stillness, an awareness of the numinous, to express their thanks, hopes, dreams, questions and fears, and to explore ways of praying as practiced by the ‘saints of old’ and people today.
Prayer spaces provide an opportunity for children and young people to stop, think and ask questions about their lives, their experiences, their beliefs, and their relationships, and to learn from this reflection. Prayer spaces use a variety of innovative and imaginative techniques to enable children and young people to express these reflections and/or prayer in different ways.
Prayer spaces are hospitable and welcoming to all children and young people, whatever their beliefs or cultural backgrounds. Prayer spaces provide for a variety of learning styles and are accessible, with appropriate support, for those with mild learning difficulties.
Prayer spaces pursue excellence and work to national standards, with reference to the educational curriculum in each nation. Prayer spaces ensure that children and young people feel safe and are effectively protected from harm. And, wherever possible, they are a partnership between local churches and schools, working together to provide amazing experiences for children and young people.