I saw this in the ypluse.com newsletter and thought it was interesting. It’s a site that allows people to post prayers along with a picture. It ‘s alot like the sites that allow you post a secret anonymously, but as a prayer. Users can also upload a picture to accompany. It was fascinating to read some of the prayers posted. Many of them seem earnest, and many of them obviously come from teens. As a youth worker I’m sure you would find browsing the site another look into soul of today’s youth. I could see using many of the prayers as discussion starters.
I think it’s just another great example of teens looking for a spiritual outlet. What do you think?
Link: dear-god.net
Sure is interesting. Also frightening. The description reads:
“It doesn’t matter what your version of God is…Jesus, Allah, Buddha or simply a spiritual universal energy… praying to a higher power soothes and heals. It is believed that people who pray are healthier, happier and more resilient.”
Talk about a great discussion starter! Don’t worry about who you’re praying too, just pray. What a sad portrayal of the wonder gift of prayer our Lord has given us.
Why is it frightening Nathaniel? A Sad portrayal – please don’t be so ignorant – As a teenager who lives online and does not attend church this site is very helpful to those like me
On a lighter note, I’ve seen this site before – and I’m impressed with many of the pictures. Are they really uploaded by the users?
The pictures are cool. If you click on the submit link there’s a place to submit a photo. I don’t know if there are manipulating it at all, or if they are filling in when someone doesn’t include one. They definitely add to the site.
I agree with Nathaniel. This site may indeed be a great discussion starter.
However, the god the users are praying to may not be the same as the God of the universe. Noting the “Big Man Upstairs” mentality may suggest that their “god is too small” (see J.B. Phillips’ “Your God is Too Small”). Furthermore, though some of the pictures are thought provoking, I wouldn’t want any of my students to see some of the pictures as some can be risque (e.g., the naked man in the corner, as well as other photos that are suggestive).
And though I understand that Jessica and other “online only” Church members (?) may not be back and read this post, there is something about being with a body of Believers, experiencing Church together, and, particularly, to fellowship together. Being removed from a local body of Believers may make fulfilling that purpose a bit more challenging.
Grace,
James T. Reardon