SIMPLE "PRAYER STATIONS" STOP PEOPLE IN THEIR TRACKS IN BUSY CITY

THEN, OCTOBER 1997: An unlikely offer to passers-by was reaching the hearts of busy New Yorkers in a way that traditional evangelism methods had previously failed to achieve.

People who wouldn't stop in the street to take a gospel tract or listen to someone preaching were lining up to be prayed for by volunteers from local churches.

The deceptively simple idea of offering free prayer had proved a success everywhere from commuter crossroads and tourist spots to low-income neighborhoods in the bustling American city, according to Prayer Station originator Nick Savoca.

"I have been involved in many different kinds of open-air evangelism in New York over the years, but I have never seen anything so effective at establishing a connection with people," he said. "It's so simple, yet it somehow seems to disarm people in a tremendous way. It reaches into their heart."

Youth With A Mission's New York Metro director, Savoca met some resistance to his idea at first. "Some thought most New Yorkers would be too sophisticated for it. But we have found that because we are giving something away, in a sense, rather than asking for anything, that people respond."

NOW: Savoca's office is still fielding inquiries from around the world from pastors and others keen to try the Prayer Station approach in their communities. "We have had a continual flow of letters, phone calls, faxes and e-mails. It has been quite remarkable."

Prayer Station kits are available for purchase by local churches. They include a table, banners and aprons to be worn by volunteers manning the station. Thanks to a grant from a Christian foundation, Savoca is able to subsidize the materials to churches that don't have a large budget.

Churches leaders in Washington, Pennsylvania agreed to make the Prayer Station their combined community outreach for the Christmas season, Savoca said, advertising the offer of prayer in local newspapers. A woman approach another group in Spanish Harlem and tearfully asked them: Are you angels?"

"They looked at her a bit strange and asked her why. She told them that she was very depressed and had left work early with the intention of going home and taking her life. They prayed with her and she not only decided not to go through with her plan, but gave her heart to Christ right there on the street."

While believing that one of the reasons for the Prayer Station's impact is that it is "non-confrontational - it puts felt needs before talking people about their eternal needs", Savoca admitted to still being "baffled" by its effect. "It is amazing how disarmed people can be by prayer."

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