Lessons from the Lord’s Prayers

Those who concur with a prayer should add an audible “amen.” The word means “truly” or “verily.”
“Private prayers can be as long as we want, but public prayers should be short . . .” (1:44:00)

As the Lord closes His prayer, He acknowledges God’s great power and glory, ending with “Amen.” Our prayers also close with amen. Though it is pronounced differently in various languages, its meaning is the same. It means “truly” or “verily.” Adding amen solemnly affirms a sermon or a prayer. Those who concur should each add an audible amen to signify “that is my solemn declaration too.”

“The Lord will accept that which is enough, with a good deal more pleasure and satisfaction than that which is too much and unnecessary.” (Joseph F Smith – Conference Report, Oct. 1912, 133-34.)

The concept of “too much and unnecessary” could also apply to the length of our prayers. A closing prayer in a Church meeting need not include a summary of each message and should not become an unscheduled sermon. Private prayers can be as long as we want, but public prayers ought to be short supplications for the Spirit of the Lord to be with us or brief declarations of gratitude for what has transpired.

Instruction:

• Public prayers ought to be short supplications – not unscheduled sermons or summaries of what has transpired.