In Hebrew, the word for “prayer” is tefilah, and “to pray” is lehitpalel, a reflexive verb meaning “to judge oneself.” When we pray, we are asking ourselves if we are living according to God’s word. Are we embodying Christ’s sacrifice, or are we falling short of our calling?

Prayer is a journey—a search for ways to live more godly lives and better realize our potential as human beings. It doesn’t require fluency in language or familiarity with liturgy. Our parish is an ideal environment in which to engage in the deep spiritual work we are all called to do.

I invite you to take this time to engage more deeply in worship and pray in fellowship. Together, we follow God’s command: “Make for me a holy place.” This can be a space where we gather to worship, share ideas and meals, learn, celebrate joyful events, and more—a place where we can truly live in faith.

I look forward to seeing you at Silicon Valley Mar Thoma Church, and I hope my reflections on prayer will guide you on your spiritual journey.