The People's Prayer Room
A stillness rests in the space as you enter. Small stringed bulbs glow softly on the benches, chairs, and kneeler. There are books, a mirror with scripture written on it, interactive stations, and a lectern upon which all who come may participate in transcribing the Gospel of Matthew. You can sing, sit, stand, or recline. You can laugh or be silent. Some cry. You can bring your praise here; you can bring your wonder or your sorrow. When you enter this space, you can be authentically who you are.
This is the new prayer room at The Rescue Mission. Under the direction of Pastor Matthew Haberman, Director of Spiritual Care, a space has been set aside for those who seek peace and prayer throughout the day. “The reason for the prayer room is to acknowledge the absolute necessity of interacting with God,” says Haberman. “We must be in prayer if we are to know what work we are supposed to be doing and why we are doing it.”
From the International House of Prayer in Kansas City, Missouri to 24-7 Prayer which began in Sheffield, United Kingdom, prayer rooms are being built and sustained by groups of pious Christians throughout the world. Fort Wayne leaders envisioned a 24-7 prayer room for our city and Love Fort Wayne came alongside them to foster that vision. The Prayer Works Prayer Room is set to open in the redeveloped Electric Works building the first week of January 2023.
I Chronicles 16:11 reads “Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.” Staff at The Rescue Mission have an earnest desire to honor this scripture, to seek God, and to serve others. The prayer room is yet another tool encouraging The Rescue Mission’s team as they strive “to transform lives through the love of Jesus Christ.”