Harp Tea – Christian Prayer Version
A Silent Harp & Scripture Listening Workshop
This workshop invites participants into a sacred hour of silence, prayer, and attentive listening in the presence of God. Silence—without conversation or distraction—creates space to hear the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit and to rest in God’s wisdom.
Participants are invited to bring a Bible, a devotional book, a book of Christian poetry, or a blank journal for prayerful reflection—whatever helps them listen more deeply to God during this time. This quiet, shared experience can be profoundly meaningful and spiritually renewing. We conclude with tea, light refreshments, and optional sharing.
The workshop may be held in a church, chapel, parish hall, or home—any space that supports reverence, quiet, and hospitality.
Origins of the Practice
I first experienced this format through a harp student who invited me to one of her harp teas. As she played the harp, we sat together in silence reading Scripture. I brought my well-worn Catholic Bible, entered the experience prayerfully, and remained open to God’s leading. The time was deeply blessed, and the spiritual fruit that followed in my own life was unmistakable. In addition to this experience, I have been deeply influenced by Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer. Her teaching on learning to recognize God’s voice through Scripture, prayer, and attentive listening has further shaped this workshop and confirmed my desire to offer it to others. This gathering is one way of creating intentional space to practice that kind of listening—quieting our own voices so we may better hear God’s.
Structure of the Hour
This gathering is similar to other forms of Christian contemplative prayer, with the emphasis on silence and personal reflection guided by God rather than spoken instruction.
During the hour, I offer gentle harp music and reflective hymn-based or sacred repertoire, played reverently as an accompaniment to prayer and Scripture reading. As I play, I hold the gathering in prayer, contemplating Christian virtues such as:
Patience and gentleness
Trust in God’s providence
Gratitude
Faithful service
Love and kindness toward others and all of God’s creation
Conclusion & Hospitality
After approximately one hour, tea and light refreshments—arranged by the host—are served. Participants who wish to share reflections may do so; those who prefer to remain silent are fully respected.
This service works beautifully for small groups and larger gatherings, even up to 50 people. Hosts are encouraged to ask guests to arrive on time and to bring a Bible or devotional material. Comfortable seating and simple hospitality help create a welcoming and prayerful atmosphere.
