We had a wonderful conversation with Julie Lane Gay, author of The Riches of Your Grace: Living in the Book of Common Prayer, on our latest episode of Ordinary Matters.
“For me, the Book of Common Prayer is more than just a collection of prayers—it's a lifeline, a daily invitation to experience God’s grace, love, and mercy in the midst of our ordinary routines”
Julie Lane Gay
Julie shared how she and her husband, Craig, begin each morning with a ritual of prayer rooted in a centuries-old tradition. As they sip their tea and coffee, wrapped in their flannel robes, they turn to the Book of Common Prayer (BCP) to guide them into the presence of God, even when words might otherwise fail them. For Julie, the BCP is more than just a collection of prayers; it’s a gift that has profoundly shaped her understanding of God’s grace, love, and mercy.
Our conversation explored why prayer can often feel difficult—whether due to life's distractions, the fear of saying the wrong thing, or uncertainty about whether our prayers are heard. Julie offered wisdom on how the BCP can serve as a guide, not only in church but in our daily routines, helping us connect with God in meaningful ways. Whether you’re familiar with the BCP or completely new to it, this episode provides a fresh perspective on how structured prayer can enhance our ordinary lives, allowing us to experience God’s love in a profound way.
We offer you this episode in the hope that it might encourage you in the challenges of prayer and help you rest in the goodness of God.
… and one last note: my new book, Longing for Joy: An Invitation into the Goodness and Beauty of Life releases on October 29th. In our world, where algorithms shape what we see, I need your help: Please pre-order a copy today. You can also learn about other ways to help at thejoyrefuge.com
The Difficulty of Prayer and the Goodness of God