The PRAYERS ON THE PORCH started several years ago on her own porch by former Mayor Loretta Gluckstein is continuing in Atlantic Highlands tomorrow night, Tuesday, March 11, at 6:30 p.m.
Gluckstein, who has seen the informal gathering grow from a few friends to many local residents from a variety of different religions, said this week’s Prayers on the Porch will be at the home of Ellen O’Dwyer at 81 E Lincoln Avenue.
O’Dwyer reiterated the invitation and noted the Prayers on the Porch generally lasts no more than half an hour.
“It’s a time we can all get together,” Gluckstein said, “without worrying about major situations, petty fights, differences. It’s a time when neighbors just chat with each other, share prayers for whatever they want, and in general, simply enjoy a half hour with no stress, lots of good vibes and informal prayers than truly come from the heart.
Prayers on the Porch has been held at a variety of porches and other sites since it was first started, including the lawn of one church and the parking lot of another. In inclement weather, hosts of the event have invited everyone into their homes for the get together, and in warm summer weather, hosts have gathered guests the pool side or in a family garden. Parents have come with small children; senior citizens have accepted rides from neighbors and teens have interacted with clergy and friends who also attend.
“We invited everyone to try it,” Gluckstein said, “it’s a half hour of talking to each other, talking with each other, and both asking God for blessings or thanking Him for the friendship and everything else we share.”
