Prayer & care
How to ask for prayer and pastoral support
You do not have to carry it alone, and you do not have to have the right words. Asking for prayer or to talk with someone from the church is simple, and it is always welcome. This guide walks you through how to reach out, what happens next, and how we keep your request private and cared for.
You can ask at any time
There is no waiting list for prayer and no "good enough" reason required. Joy, grief, a hard diagnosis, a decision, a marriage, a child, a quiet anxiety you have not said out loud — all of it belongs. You can ask in any of these ways:
- Tell anyone serving on Sabbath — a greeter, an elder, a deacon, or someone next to you.
- Write a short prayer request on the contact page and send it whenever it comes to mind.
- Ask to speak privately with the pastor or an elder, in person or by phone.
What to say (a simple way to start)
You do not need to explain everything. A few honest sentences are plenty. If it helps, try:
- What is happening — just the part you are ready to share.
- What you would most like prayer for right now.
- Whether you want to keep this between you and one or two people, or have the prayer team pray over it too.
If words are hard, "I am struggling and could use prayer" is a complete and good request.
What to expect after you ask
Someone will follow up with care, not pressure. Typically that means a short, kind message or call, prayer with you or for you, and a check-in later to see how you are. You set the pace. You can ask for a one-time prayer or for someone to walk alongside you over time.
Your privacy is protected
A prayer request is held in confidence. Nothing is shared more widely than you allow. If you would like a need prayed for without your name, or kept only between you and the pastor, simply say so when you reach out — we will honor it.
When you need more than prayer
Prayer and practical help go together. If you are facing a crisis, an illness, a legal or immigration question, or a financial emergency, we will pray with you and help connect you to qualified people and trusted resources. We do not give legal, medical, or financial advice, but we will not leave you to find help alone. If you or someone you love is in danger or thinking about self-harm, please contact emergency services or a crisis line right away, and tell us so we can support you too.
Praying for others, and being part of the care
Many people find that praying for others is part of their own healing. If you would like to join those who quietly pray over the church's requests, or simply learn to pray more freely, there is a place for you. Care here flows both ways — we receive it, and we give it.
Reach out — we would be glad to pray with you
Send a prayer request or ask to talk with someone from CBA Orlando. There is no pressure, and no need is too small or too large.