For the special needs and concerns of this congregation.

At the National Cathedral one of the semi-pro laity (they even have their own gray vestments) lead the prayers of the people. The churches in the Diocesan cycle of prayer are identified in advance, individual prayer requests are pronounced, silence is kept to contemplate each or offer others.

At my little church each name on the prayer list is pronounced a bit differently by each one praying aloud, speed of delivery can differ by as much as two or three words, the Diocesan cycle of prayer is inserted at the end as more of a choral announcement than a prayer. It can become - usually is - a jumble (as can reciting the Nicene Creed).

But that's the point, isn't it? Each congregation is unique, with its own special needs and concerns. We pray the same form as millions of others, but we each pray in our own way. We are a jumble of strength and weakness, hope and regret, great faith and deep doubt. But whenever two or three are gathered together in the name of Jesus, the healer and redeemer of each and all is there as well.