Professional Documents
Culture Documents
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
2
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
The purpose of this handbook is to provide a Harp and Bowl Training
Manual created to equip the DHOP community members and other
believers in the city of Decatur with a Team–based Prayer Model that
enables sustained, enjoyable, effective, and biblically-based prayer
meetings.
The terminology “Harp and Bowl” comes from Revelation 5:8. Harp and
Bowl is a communication framework for combining worship and prayer
together for the purpose of unity in prayer, reaching for the fullness of
the Holy Spirit in our meetings, and sustaining longer enjoyable prayer.
We love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength by committing to
pursuing intimacy with the Lord through worship and prayer as we focus
our ministry towards Him declaring the Word of God.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
3
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
THE HOUSE OF PRAYER IN THE BIBLE
We see the model of the modern House of Prayer throughout the Bible.
One of the first, and best examples, is The Tabernacle of David.
(1 Chronicles 16) King David valued the Presence of God so greatly that
he set up a tent for the Ark of the Covenant (the Presence of God) to
dwell. 8,000 singers, musicians, and gatekeepers were organized into
teams to offer 24/7 night and day worship before the Lord.
Our ultimate example of continuous prayer is The Prayer Life of Jesus.
Even as a young man we see an example of His devotion to the Word of
God and prayer (Luke 2:41-52). His disciples recognized the value and
strength displayed in Jesus’s relationship with the Father resulting in
many miracles, displays of power, and wisdom. The disciples could have
asked Jesus how he performed miracles, but instead they asked Him
how to pray (Matthew 6:5-15). They witnessed just how important an
active, living prayer life is. Jesus is the perfect example of how to live a
Kingdom-minded lifestyle.
Prayer and worship is a thread woven deep in the fabric of the Word.
There are many other displays of its importance, but let’s look at
Revelation 4-5. This is where we find the structure used at the House of
Prayer. In Revelation chapters four and five we get a glimpse into the
Throne Room of Heaven. We see continual prayer and worship
happening day and night around the Throne. The twenty-four Elders
and the four Living Creatures continually sing praises. Each one had a
harp (the music) and a bowl (prayers), the intercessory prayers of the
people. (Rev 5:8)
Jesus taught us to pray the Lord’s Prayer ‘on earth as it is in Heaven’.
Continual prayer and worship is happening in Heaven, and we want to
see it happen here on earth! He is worthy of night and day worship and
prayer. We follow this Biblical model. Here at DHOP our prayer model is
based on that heavenly picture in Revelation chapters four and five.
DHOP Worship and Prayer Model
HARP and BOWL – worship and prayer
“And when he had taken it (the scroll), the four Living Creatures and the
twenty-four Elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they
were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people.
And they sang a new song.” (Revelation 5:8-9)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
4
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER ROOM MINISTRY
In the DHOP sanctuary we minister to God, and we encounter His heart.
In prayer, we contend for breakthrough and a release of His power in
our hearts, our community, and ministries that bring His revelation.
15 “But the priests… who kept charge of My sanctuary when the children of
Israel went astray from Me, they shall come near Me to minister to Me;…”
(Ezekiel 44:15)
We minister to God
We minister to God by declaring His sovereignty, worth, beauty, and
riches with adoration and gratitude. As we praise or verbalize what we
see of God’s beauty, our insight and delight increase and our hearts are
realigned to His heart.
We labor in intercession
We labor in intercession to release a greater measure of God's power
to win the lost, revive the Church, and impact society while also
engaging in works of justice and compassion. Constant intercession
changes the spiritual atmosphere of the region in which the gospel is
proclaimed and the work of the kingdom goes forth resulting in a
greater release of power for healing, salvation, and justice.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
5
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
HARP AND BOWL – WORSHIP AND PRAYER FORMATS
“…Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are
the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song...” (Revelation 5:8-9)
Intercession sets are time for corporate prayer. They are generally
energetic, as the room is invited to engage in corporate prayer and
worship over a specific prayer focus. Prayer Leaders will guide the room
in intercession, praying at the microphone for a corporate burden.
There are also cycles of “Rapid Fire Prayer” when individuals in the
room go to the microphone to pray a 15-second prayer on a specific
focus, as well as times of small group prayer for any who wish to
participate.
Worship with the Word sets use their time to study and focus on the
Word of God through song. The Worship Team and Prayer Leader focus
around a specific Scripture passage. The Prayer Leader highlights
certain passages, and the Singers develop greater understanding of the
Word through song. This format is conducive for meditation and
interceding for your personal burdens.
Devotional sets further cultivate the throne room atmosphere.
Generally, one or two Musicians play, focusing and directing their
worship to God. The Worship Leader may pray, read, or sing Scripture.
This format is more contemplative in nature, a great time to study or
have a quiet time with the Lord or personal prayer time.
Prophetic Worship sets combine worship songs with prophetic
chorus’s developed by waiting before the Lord and remaining sensitive
to the move of the Spirit. The goal is to release God’s prophetic plan for
the room, city, and region.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
6
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PURPOSE OF THE MODEL
We’ve been pursuing a culture of worship and prayer since 2010, and
our desire is to discern a structure that enhances the flow of the Holy
Spirit. The Harp and Bowl model is a structure designed to actually
enhance a creative, prophetic expression of the Holy Spirit in the
context of a corporate team. An effective structure helps people to flow
together in unity as a team in the Spirit. The Harp and Bowl model is a
communication tool that leads to greater flow in the Spirit, allowing us
to sustain and facilitate enjoyable prayer and worship day and night.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
7
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hospitality: Established set times enable visitors and guests to
know what to expect when they visit the DHOP Prayer Room. We
have structure through the model that has developed enjoyable,
sustaining, and consistent prayer and worship times which invites
and welcomes visitors and guests to join in the flow. Praying in one
accord is vital to the release of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:14; Acts
4:31-35)
Joy in Unity: Music helps keep the fire of intercession burning day
and night, sets our focus on the Lord, and builds connections
strengthening the body of Christ. Singing and praying together
brings unity to the city. As we cry out to God together, as one
unified voice with one heart and one mind, we enter into the joy of
the One who made us. Our goal is to enjoy God enjoying us. The
Lord will release joyful and enjoyable prayer to His church. (Isaiah
56:7)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
8
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
THE CORE OF HARP AND BOWL
There are many ways to express this model – prayer and worship.
Please note that nowhere does Scripture put forth this “as the only way
to pray” or “the best way to pray”. However, several core principles of
the model are based on Scripture. They are proven to help us grow and
sustain in prayer and worship, bringing Heaven to earth.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
9
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
KEY GOALS AND PRACTICES
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
10
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
There are three key practices the team and the room follow to pursue
these goals:
1. Win by Showing Up
Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him
day and night? Will he keep putting them off? (Luke 18:7)
If we show up for the worship and prayer session, we win! – He
welcomes us into His presence regardless of what we feel. Any touch
upon our hearts, any anointing in intercession, any knowledge of
answered prayer – these are all simply added bonuses.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
11
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
TEAM ROLES and RESPONSIBILITIES
“Here we go, let’s go to the throne, the place where we belong!”
Our main purpose is to minister to God as we draw the people in the
Prayer Room together, joining our hearts with His in prayer and
worship. Our goal is to engage the room!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
12
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Singers
Singers sing during worship songs, in response to the Prayer Leader,
and help lead the room in prophetic singing, antiphonal singing, and
spontaneous choruses. Before the session, Singers should learn the
songs chosen by the Worship Leader. Singers should also read, pray, and
sing through the Scriptures highlighted on the Lead Sheet. The Singers
will be guided by the Worship Leader.
5. Musicians
Musicians elevate the worship and support the Worship Leader with
their instruments. Musicians pray with their instruments (playing
spontaneously) as the Spirit and Worship Leader directs. (Optional role
– the Worship Leader can be the only Musician.)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
13
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
9. Dancer
The Dancer worships by interpreting prayers and music through dance.
They may dance solo or form a coordinated team. They also act as
discernment concerning other spontaneous dancers in the room. If a
dancer is dancing inappropriately, it is the responsibility of the Team
Leader to (gently) redirect them. The Dancers report to the Prayer
Leader during a set. (Optional role)
10. Artist
The Artist uses art to worship God and portray what God is speaking.
During the session, the Artist works in the designated area, on and off,
throughout the evening. At this time the Artist is responsible for
bringing his or her own canvas and easel or other equipment. Before the
session, the Artist is responsible for preparing materials and concepts in
accordance with the Apostolic Prayer themes and songs chosen by the
team leaders. To provide the needed space for the Artist, the Artist will
need to coordinate in advance with the DHOP staff and Team Leader.
During the set the Artist reports to the Prayer Leader. (Optional role)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
14
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
12. Intercessor/ Discernment
The Discernment role is to use basic spiritual discernment to keep the
room safe from off-base prayers, prophecies, or distracting behavior. In
a typical prayer session, discernment will not be needed – but when it is
needed, it is very important! The Discernment person doesn’t
necessarily confront directly, but if they discern a problem in the room
they communicate with the Prayer Leader and/or the Hospitality
person to jointly decide the appropriate response. This person may test
prophecies, discern where the Spirit is taking the room, and alert the
Hospitality person to anything that might need to happen to enhance
hospitality. This position reports to the Prayer Leader.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
15
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
WHOLE TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES
Note that the following responsibilities are for all members of the
team:
⎼ Prepare for the set by reading emails and Elvanto invites from the
Worship Leader, attending practices, reading and studying the
Scriptures for the set, and praying the themes of the set
beforehand. Cultivate consistency through accountability. Develop
a life of prayer off stage so that on stage there is a natural flow.
⎼ Attend the briefing. Show up 30 minutes before the start of the set
to prepare with the team. We will meet in the Briefing Room 30
minutes before the start of the set.
⎼ Stay engaged throughout the set. Let your heart and mind focus
on the Presence of the Lord. You are helping to maintain an
atmosphere of reverence and holiness for the Lord. Help provide
no distractions. As much as possible, prepare so that you don’t
have to leave the stage or room throughout the set (e.g., bring a
water bottle, go to the bathroom before the set starts).
⎼ Follow the model. The model is the primary communication tool
that enables Singers, Musicians, and Prayer Leaders to flow
together with confidence and with no timidity or hesitation. The
structure identifies the places for creativity.
⎼ Communicate before and during the set. Communication is key to
the flow of unity in a team. We want to ensure that everyone is
cared for and revitalized through their set and team ministry.
Nobody on the team should hesitate to bring up ideas, concerns,
or direction that’s possibly from the Lord. If you are attending or
finding a sub, please communicate with your team.
⎼ Have fun! Remember, you win just by showing up … even simply
being a member of a team is an act of dedication to the Lord that
moves His heart. When you are learning the model, there will be a
time where you feel you are more focused on the model than on
the Lord … that is normal. You will get past it as you grow more
comfortable with the model. But even in those times, your prayers
count! God knows what you are going through and loves the work
you are putting in to grow in the Harp and Bowl prayer model.
⎼ Meditate on Apostolic Prayers and Scripture as often as you can.
⎼ Watch IHOPKC and DHOP Prayer Room live streams as often as
you can.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
16
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
HARP AND BOWL FORMATS EXPLAINED
As we go into the details of each format, please note that these
components are not laid out in Scripture to this detail. We have found
that the Harp and Bowl operates through agreement with God’s heart.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
17
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
1. Intercession
This format is focused upon interceding for a general breakthrough of
God’s justice, the outpouring of the Spirit on the church in our city, and
for a specific burden, need, or corporate prayer concern in society, the
nation or our world. We also pray for certain identified group(s). The
Prayer Leaders pray Apostolic and Biblical Prayers to highlight a
particular "burden” for the prophetic singers to sing and develop into
corporate choruses.
This format generally has more energy than any other format. You also
involve the whole room with “Rapid Fire Prayer Cycles”. As we pray for
others, the reality of God's word is released into the atmosphere. That is
why we use Scriptures to pray for others. As we sing God's word back to
Him, the testimony of Jesus is released back to us. “Prophecy is the
testimony of Jesus." (Revelation 19:9-11)
Worship Cycle:
Corporate Worship Songs 20 minutes
Spontaneous Singing 5 minutes
Developing Choruses 35 minutes
*We aim for 4-6 cycles of developing a passage and singing
corporate choruses.
Rapid Fire Prayer (Other) 5 minutes
*We repeat this cycle twice in a two hour set. We aim for 3 times
of spontaneous singing and chorus.
After a time of corporate worship and praise, the Prayer Leader will
read through a Biblical sentence from a Biblical Prayer (2-4 verse
passage). After praying for a few minutes developing the Apostolic
Prayer focus, the Prayer Leader isolates a phrase by clearly designating
one key phrase from the prayer. This repeated phrase signals for the
Singers to develop the meaning by singing around the phrase. The
Singers sing short (5-10 second) songs to enhance the theme of the
isolated phrase. This process is called antiphonal praying and singing.
The Worship Leader or Chorus Leader establishes a spontaneous chorus
for all to sing (8-10 times). Rapid Fire Prayer will end the cycle to start it
again for the next hour.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
18
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Worship with the Word
This format is focused upon worshipping the Lord in His throne room. It
is designed as a discipleship set that provides training in the Word as
we function as a “singing Bible study”. In this format worship teams
focus on singing through large portions of Scripture, like an entire
Psalm. We sing through Psalms, Hymns of Revelation, Songs of Solomon
and any book of the Bible that leads us in adoration. We strive to
develop Scriptural language and confidence in prophetic singing.
Worship Cycle:
Corporate Worship Songs 15 - 20 minutes
Spontaneous Singing 5 minutes
Developing Biblical Passage 10 - 20 minutes
*We repeat this cycle through the two hour set. We aim for about
4-6 worship cycles.
The Worship Leader has the primary responsibility to lead this set and
to choose the chapter and worship outline order. The team may use the
same outline for several weeks as they study the chapter together.
After corporate worship songs, a Singers will sing through the chosen
Scripture passage, primarily using the wording of the text. Singers can
sing through the text together or one Singer may be designated by the
Worship Leader. Once the Scripture is sung, the Prayer Leader will
isolate a phrase echoing it back to the Singers, so they develop it further.
Once a theme is developed the team will establish a chorus for all to sing
(8-10 times) to emphasize, transition, and engage the room.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
19
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Devotional
This format is simply devoting our songs, our singing, and our worship
to Jesus. We sing songs that are devotional in nature providing an
anointed atmosphere for individuals to meditate on the Scriptures as
they linger in God’s presence. The songs and music aim for the heart,
that we may sit at the feet of Jesus. We sing to God of our love and
faithfulness to Him. We sing back to Him His Word. This is a quiet,
meditative format that encourages those in the Prayer Room to
meditate on God and on His Word. (This can be a group of Musicians or a
solo instrument. There is usually no prayer leading with this format.)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
20
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Prophetic
This format is designed to wait upon the Lord. We desire an outpouring
of His Spirit and an activation of the Church. Through corporate worship
we join together, lifting one voice, and remaining sensitive to the move
of the Spirit and the purpose of the moment. Ministry time is sent forth
as God’s prophetic plan for the room, city, and region is released, so that
we might experience God together.
Worship Cycle:
Corporate Worship Songs 15 - 20 minutes
Spontaneous Singing 5 minutes
Developing Prophetic Biblical Passages 10 - 20 minutes
*We repeat this cycle through the two hour set. We aim for about
4-6 worship cycles.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
21
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
BASIC OVERVIEW OF WORSHIP SET
Worship Cycle
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
22
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
⎼ Waiting for the Worship Leader: Singers should wait until a
corporate worship song is established before joining in. Wait at
least until the first verse and chorus of a song has been sung
unless the Worship Leader nods that they want you to begin
singing sooner.
⎼ Dynamics: Singers should be aware of the loud and soft dynamics
of singing that can help to build and crescendo a worship song
from the verse into the chorus, etc.
⎼ Listen: Listen for different parts and harmonies. Prophetic
Singers, sing at a volume that allows the room to hear the
Worship Leader.
Spontaneous Singing:
⎼ The purpose of the Worship Team is to lead so that the whole
room engages with God. Thus, it is important to have simple,
basic chord progressions and an easy vocal range for non-gifted
singers in the room.
⎼ Worship Leaders must choose easy predictable chord
progressions. (Even use just a two-chord progression.)
⎼ The prophetic Singers should engage boldly using long notes in
flowing melodies and harmonies instead of short staccato or
syncopated notes.
⎼ The Worship Leader should start with extended lower notes to
give the participants in the room easy melody notes that help
them find their own easy melody lines which are within their
range.
⎼ The purpose of spontaneous singing is to draw our hearts toward
God in a devotional manner. The singing is from our hearts in our
own words and melodies or from the Scripture.
⎼ The Prayer Leader is not to sing on the mic during spontaneous
time because the prayer mic is at a higher volume and will
dominate over all the voices of the prophetic Singers.
⎼ Raise your voice to the Lord. Try singing these boldly as you
engage in a time of spontaneous singing.
○ Scriptures that are on your heart.
○ Sing the theme from the worship songs.
○ Simple songs from your heart. (E.g., “I love You,” “You
are good”, “I am Yours and You are mine”).
○ Sing in your spirit.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
23
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
The point of Spontaneous Singing is to increase the intensity of the
spiritual atmosphere in the room. Please be sensitive to others when
praying in tongues or praying in your spirit language. If you are
distracting others by praying loudly in tongues, you are defeating this
purpose.
2. Isolating a Phrase
− The Intercessor designates one phrase from the passage
that the Singers are to sing around.
− Clearly designate to the Singers which phrase is meant to be
developed by saying “in Jesus name”.
o Examples of isolating a phrase from Eph. 3:16-18:
○ “In the name of Jesus, strengthen Your Church with
might through Your Spirit in their inner man.”
○ “Root us and ground us in love, in Jesus name.”
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
24
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
− Repeat: “Strengthen with might, through Your Spirit, in the
inner man”.
− Rephrase: “Release Your power to our inner man”.
− Restructure: “Impart grace to cause our hearts to flow in
love and holiness”.
Note that the Prayer Leader does have the ability to pray “over”
the Singers, which is usually in the gaps (e.g., the prayer will be a
very short phrase or even only a word, thrown in just as one
Singer is ending their song and before the next Singer begins).
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
25
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Prayer Leader can pray over the Singers to add to their
prayers.
⎼ Redirecting the Singers' prayers: When the Singers are
struggling to stay on topic and the Prayer Leader wants to
refocus them, the Prayer Leader can repeat the phrase that
was highlighted or give other related phrases that will help
the Singers pick up the theme and begin to develop it.
4. Prophetic Choruses
− The Worship Leader or Chorus Leader will create a
chorus based on the isolated phrase and prophetic songs
from the Singers. The goal of these choruses is to engage
everyone as we sing them together. (8-10 times).
− All Singers must help lead the room by singing the
chorus together boldly, so the room knows when to
engage. All prophetic Singers should help carry the chorus
and avoid singing any confusing variations disengaging the
room from joining. (Embellishment, private songs, etc.) The
more engaged we are in singing the same song, the more the
Spirit is released.
− Easy choruses should be chosen so everyone in the
room can sing them, even non-gifted singers. Seek easy
melodies with phrases easy to remember and in a common
vocal range so that all can participate quickly.
− End the prophetic choruses by singing “O God” to signal
the last time the chorus is sung.
− Prophetic chorus may occur at any time during the
process of developing a passage.
− Singers should not speak prophetic words over the mic.
− Use the same chorus many times through the prayer
meeting if it is one that the room responds to in a strong
way.
− Double choruses can be established occasionally that echo
back and forth answering each other or creating contrast
with each other. Limit of 2 choruses at one time.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
26
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Examples of developing a Chorus – Worship with the Word:
Singer 1: “Jesus, You are more beautiful than the sons of men.”
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
27
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Example of developing a Chorus - Intercession:
Singer 2: “Let Your peace and joy rain down into their hearts”
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
28
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
SINGERS TIPS
2. Check in with the Worship Leader in the Briefing Room and get all
of your music and Scriptures ready to take out on the platform.
4. Sing from the Scriptures and the focused theme to release the
prophetic.
7. If you cannot make your scheduled time to sing, please find a sub
for your set and call or text the Worship Leader.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
29
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
MUSICIAN TIPS
2. Check in with the Worship Leader in the Briefing Room and get
your Lead Sheet and music ready to take out on the platform.
7. If you cannot make your scheduled time to play, please find a sub
for your set and call or text the Worship Leader.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
30
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER LEADING AND APOSTOLIC PRAYERS
The Lord promised, “I will make you joyful in My House of Prayer” (Isaiah
56:7). The Church will be surprised by joy. In other words, God will fill
the Church with enjoyable prayer that is refreshing and invigorating . At
DHOP, we sing and pray the Word of God. The Word is central. We aim
to experience enjoyable prayer by experiencing God’s beauty and
fullness. As we focus on the Scriptures it unifies our hearts with His and
to each other.
The Word is the most needed element in the prayer and worship
movement today. DHOP is called to be a “singing seminary”. We are a
gathering of worshippers who seek to possess spiritual depth in the
Word. Drawing attention to Jesus and not the people on the platform.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
31
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
APOSTOLIC PRAYERS
Apostolic Prayers help direct our heart and heal our emotions. The
Lord designed the New Testament prayers around the spiritual
principle that we will develop Godly love for those we pray for. These
prayers were designed by God to heal and empower the human spirit.
Praying positively guards us against growing frustrated and angry.
Instead we grow in love for the people we’re praying for. We honor
those we pray for and lift our hearts to Jesus in one accord on behalf of
them. The positive focus of the Apostolic Prayers brings unity of heart.
Apostolic Prayers are for the Church. When we pray for the whole
church in a city to be revived in love and power, the answer to these
prayers will have an immense impact on the lost. We do well to labor in
prayer for an increase in the measure of the Spirit’s anointing on the
church, knowing that a harvest will surely result. No power can prevent
the lost from coming to Jesus in great numbers when the church is
revived and operating together in the anointing of the Spirit.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
32
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
How Do You Pray Biblical Prayers?
Dialogue with God by Reading the Word
The Bible is the Living Word of God, Jesus Christ. When we
dialogue with God about His Word, we invite Him to tell us about
who He is, and we open our hearts to the very nature and,
therefore, beauty of God. Pray to God instead of talking to people
when you pray corporately. Focus on asking: instead of explaining.
Speak directly to God. Be more conscious that He is watching and
listening, rather than that others are watching and listening. This
will prompt you to direct your heart toward Him in love and
partnership.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
33
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
⎼ Ask for an in-breaking of positive things rather than the
removal of negative things.
− Example:
o Positive Prayer: “Father, I ask that Your light and truth
would break into the church in Decatur!”
o Negative Prayer: “Father, I ask that You would remove
the darkness and deception from the church in Decatur!”
Note: God hears, cares about and discerns all prayer, whether positive
or negative. Because of our natural human tendency to become weary
and discouraged, praying positive prayer allows us to maintain prayer,
day in and day out, by helping us engage in joyful supplication rather
than trying to bear the emotional weight of negative realities expressed
through negative prayer. It is because of both the Biblical model and
human dynamics that we encourage positive prayer.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
34
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER LEADER RESPONSIBILITY
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
35
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
RAPID FIRE PRAYER CYCLE
Rapid Fire Prayer is a time that incorporates 10-15 second prayers from
a number of Intercessors, one after another on the microphone for a
particular focus.
We have found that having a prayer cycle like this can have a very
dynamic and powerful effect in Intercession. It allows for increased
participation of Intercessors in a very non-threatening manner because
the prayers are very short.
⎼ The Prayer Leader will establish the Apostolic Prayer topic and
introduce Rapid Fire Prayer at the designated times, inviting
Intercessors to pray for 10-15 seconds on the mic.
Please be sensitive that the microphone level is higher than the other
microphones. It is important that you do not yell on the microphone, but
please speak into the microphone. Thank You.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
36
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER LEADER TIPS
2. Check in with the Worship Leader in the Briefing Room and get
your Lead Sheet for the set. (in addition the Apostolic Prayer
schedule and Scriptures are available)
6. If you cannot make your scheduled time to pray, please find a sub
for your set and call or text the Worship Leader.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
37
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP LEADING
The primary purpose of the worship team is to lead so that the whole
room engages with God.
Worship Leaders at DHOP lead using their instruments for the following
reasons.
LEADERSHIP PROMISE
I seek to follow the two greatest commandments: to love God with all my
heart, soul, mind and strength and love my neighbor as myself.
I seek to remain in communion with the Holy Spirit, steadfast and focused
on Jesus, becoming more like Him each day. I seek to take on the character
of Christ; ministering to the Lord while serving as a leader to my team and
the Prayer Room to accomplish the will of God during the set.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
38
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Worship Leading Tips:
⎼ Choose simple songs that are easy to sing and familiar so the people
will engage in worship and go deeper in God.
⎼ Choose songs that direct the room to sing to God instead of only
about God.
⎼ Do not introduce more than one new song in a session.
⎼ The Musicians should know the songs they are playing very well.
Work on simple transitions between songs.
⎼ Work within a theme ⎼ let your song selection tell a story about God
or Jesus based upon the Scripture that the Prayer Leader will be using
that day.
⎼ Be creative and use only parts of songs as you tell the story. You can
sing the same progression of songs for weeks because God will move
on your heart in new ways each time.
⎼ Try to stay away from verse, chorus, and verse, if possible. This
allows for “automatic” singing. Which means people just sing and
don’t engage with God.
⎼ Lead them on an adventure In God. Lead them in a love story with
Jesus! Provide room for the Holy Spirit to work, as well.
⎼ Practice at home. This helps to develop transitions and themes of
songs that flow well together. Even play songs in the same keys so
they flow together without stopping.
⎼ It is the goal to have the music playing the whole session. Gaps of no
music playing should be avoided as much as possible.
⎼ The Worship Leader will fill out and complete the Lead Sheet before
briefing. Make sure it has clear instructions for the Singers, Prayer
Leaders and Musicians so everyone is on the same page. Be sensitive
to the Holy Spirit, but having a detailed and outlined lead sheet helps
to prepare everyone for victory.
⎼ Intercession chords should be energetic, warring types of rhythms.
Attempt to provide lots of energy in your chord progressions. Minor
chords work well for Intercession, too.
⎼ Worship with the Word and Devotional sessions can be slower and
with more flowing chord progressions.
⎼ As the Worship Leader you need to carry the melody.
⎼ The Worship Leader must have vocal strength. Aim for a crisp and
strong voice to establish the direction, notes and words.
⎼ Articulation is crucial. The Worship Leader must be easy to
understand.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
39
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
⎼ Sing in a range that is easy for non-gifted singers. The Worship
Leader must aim for the middle range where most all can join and
sing.
⎼ Encourage everyone to sing strong melody on the prophetic choruses.
The point of the prophetic chorus is to quickly engage the room.
⎼ Encourage the prophetic Singers to be bold in antiphonal singing.
⎼ Encourage the Singers to develop the choruses. Encourage unity!
⎼ Pay attention during prophetic singing. Keep your eyes open. Listen
for the isolated phrase and develop it.
⎼ Don’t force antiphonal singing and choruses. Trust in the process.
⎼ Use long flowing notes. The Worship Leader must train and oversee
this with their prophetic Singers. Pay attention to the room to see if
they are with you. If not, then go back into a known worship song. Do
not start antiphonal singing until there is a flow.
⎼ The Worship Leader must carry the melody. If the Worship Leader is
singing a harmony, the people just listen instead of sing. The Worship
Leader should not ad lib between songs or verses, adding extra notes
and/or words, except on rare occasions. Sing the worship songs in the
way they were learned by the people so that the room can engage.
The people in the congregation will stop singing if they are unsure of
the melody line.
⎼ Favorite chord progressions are in the Worship Leader packet. Be
cautious with chord progressions. If you have too many chords, it is
hard for the Singers to find the melody. Less is more.
If you are leading, make sure each Musician, Singer and Prayer
Leader has a copy of the Intercession or Worship with the Word Lead
Sheet.
Vocal and/or Hand Signals of the Worship Leader
⎼ Use hand signals to direct the Singers during corporate worship.
⎼ To signal spontaneous singing to begin, say or sing “Lift Your
Voices to the Lord”.
⎼ To stop a chorus, sing the words “O God”.
⎼ When the Prayer Leader is to start, the Worship Leader brings the
spontaneous singing to a close and motions to the Prayer Leader
to begin.
Refer to the Worship Leader’s packet as needed.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
40
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
DECATUR HOUSE OF PRAYER BELIEF STATEMENT
DHOP worships together under the authority and guidance of the One
true God, we believe that He eternally exists as the Holy Trinity – Father,
Son and Holy Spirit. We believe His Word, the Bible, is a vital, living part
of the Christian walk; and that it is the only inspired, infallible, and
authoritative Word of God.
We fully believe in the deity of Jesus Christ ⎼ His virgin birth, sinless life,
miracles, His death, burial, and glorious resurrection, that He ascended
to the right hand of the Father where He is now interceding on our
behalf. We accept the price that Jesus paid for us, receive Him as Lord
and Savior, and believe that we are now free to lead a new and holy life
in Christ. We believe that Jesus is the only way to eternal life.
We believe that through the freedom found in the shed blood of Jesus
Christ and with the Holy Spirit, we can come together in Spiritual unity
and draw near to God in worship. As we worship together, we delight in
the glory of God, depend on His Presence, grow in His knowledge, and
submit to the Word of God as the all sufficient authority in our lives and
this ministry.
Together, with the Holy Spirit guiding us, we will stir one another up to
love and good works. We will listen carefully, encourage, and build one
another up. We will walk in brotherly love and peace with one another
and exercise affectionate care and watchfulness over each other. We
seek, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, to be in
the world and not of the world, to deny ungodliness, and put to death
the lusts of the flesh knowing that through the work of the cross we are
new creations, working together to advance the Kingdom of God.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
41
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
DECATUR HOUSE OF PRAYER HISTORY
We fell in love with the Harp and Bowl model of worship and prayer.
During the next five years we gathered together with children and
adults at Lampstand Presbyterian Church in Decatur, IL., on Wednesday
nights. During those nights many children and adults had powerful
encounters with God. We sang and played instruments and we prayed
for healing and miracles to abound during a one-hour prayer and
worship set.
We then moved to the Guiding Light Healing Rooms on North 51. In July
2017 we relocated to 1920 N. Oakland Ave., Decatur, IL.
We have been contending for night and day prayer in the city and
region. We are blessed to have had many, many people engaged in night
and day prayer throughout our years ⎼ some for a season, many for the
long haul!
We are encouraging anyone with a love of Jesus and a heart for this city
and region to consider joining us. We know God has called us to
minister to Him and cry out to Him to release His power and anointing
for night and day prayer.
We will not stop because He is worthy, and His grace is sufficient for us.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
42
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
SECURING OUR FUTURE BY ADHERING TO THE MODEL
The more we are unified in one accord the more we experience one
reality, God's word, and the farther we go in revealing His kingdom and
His Glory.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
43
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
APPENDIX
FAQ
Q. What is the House of Prayer?/Are you a church?
A. At DHOP our worship sets are 1 to 2 hours each. We sing all styles of
worship songs and from old to new. At DHOP our focus is God. We
minister to and engage with the Lord.
Q. No two people worship or pray the same, how does that work
with the model?
A. The Harp and Bowl model is just the framework we use, and it allows
us to flow as one team in ministering to the Lord. It is all about HIM, not
us. Also, by using this framework we can trust what is happening on
stage, trust our team, and know where we are headed as a team. This
framework dismantles fear, bringing freedom in prayer and worship. In
the framework we have corporate worship, worship in spirit and truth,
prayer, and Biblical singing allowing each of us to flow with the Holy
Spirit and each other to facilitate enjoyable prayer and worship time for
all.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
44
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Q. Is DHOP Harp and Bowl the same as Kansas City Harp and Bowl?
A. No, just as Decatur is not the same as Kansas City, God has planted
His House of Prayer in Decatur to meet the needs of Decatur and the
surrounding area and region. If you are familiar with the Harp and Bowl
Intercessory prayer model from the Kansas City IHOP, you will be ready
for DHOP. We probably have adopted 90% of their model. We continue
to work with God as He leads us to develop the Decatur House of Prayer
into His House of Prayer. We thank Kansas City IHOP for the “right to
copy” their copyright policy. We use many of their resources as we
grow.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
45
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
We love our DHOP family and offer free music lessons to those
serving at DHOP and free childcare when you serve.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
46
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
DHOP BUILDING ETIQUETTE
− Pick up after yourself (friends and family) each time you visit.
− If you move any item please return it to its home.
− Sanitation: Please wipe off all areas, tables and chairs, video
equipment, etc. that you use while here at DHOP.
Prayer Room
⎼ The Prayer Room is to be kept in its present condition 24/7.
Please do not move chairs or equipment.
⎼ No running, conversations, or eating in the Prayer Room at
any time please.
⎼ Please adhere to the Prayer Room Etiquette sign ⎼ located
outside the Prayer Room.
⎼ The Prayer Room is designated as a holy place where the Lord
dwells. We thank Him for His Presence here. Please treat it as a
holy place.
⎼ If there are any issues please find DHOP Staff or a DHOP Team
Member and inform them of the issue.
⎼ If you have not been trained please do not touch the equipment.
Fellowship Area
⎼ Eating is permitted on tables only in the fellowship area.
⎼ Please clean up the food prep area when done.
⎼ Please clean up all food items, crumbs, and trash when finished
eating.
⎼ Please wipe off all tables that are used with disinfectant wipes
provided.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
47
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Practice Room
⎼ You may move around tables and chairs, as long as they are put
back in the order and condition you found them in.
⎼ Please clean up any trash, spill, cups, water bottles, ect.
⎼ Wipe off all tables and instruments used with disinfectant wipes
provided.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
48
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
AVIOM GUIDE – In Ear Monitoring System
The Aviom in ear monitoring system is a great way to hear your team,
voices, and instruments in a dynamic way.
Here are some tips to enhance your experience when using the in ear
monitors.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
49
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
50
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
DHOP FAVORITE CHORDS
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
51
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
HOW TO ENGAGE IN THE PRAYER ROOM
⎼ Bible Study Plan: Read through the Bible. Use the time to do a
Bible study (on an app, book, handout, etc.)
⎼ Prayer List for Others: Praying for others includes praying for
revival for a specific city, specific areas of justice in the
government, and specific people (friends, ministries, unsaved,
sick, etc.).
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
52
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PARTNER WITH DHOP
The Decatur House of Prayer is all about magnifying the worth of Jesus
Christ! When you partner with us, you strengthen the night-and-day
prayer movement; you propel the Gospel going forth to every nation,
tribe, and tongue; and you raise up wholehearted lovers of Jesus to
proclaim His beauty and prepare the earth for His return.
Our vision is to be open 24/7, and that takes funds and a community of
believers! These are two of the greatest ways you can partner with
DHOP. Thank you for sharing about DHOP, serving at DHOP, giving to
DHOP, and praying for DHOP. It is only through you that we are
stepping into the fulfillment of our calling here at the house.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
53
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
APOSTOLIC PRAYERS
Pray for revelation of Jesus’ beauty that we Pray for unity in the Church and to be filled with
might walk in our calling and destiny by God’s supernatural joy, peace, and hope (confidence).
power. 5 May the God of patience and comfort grant you
17 That the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit to be like-minded toward one another...6 that you
of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 may with one mind and one mouth glorify
the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; the...Father...13 May the God of hope fill you with
that you may KNOW [experience] what is the hope all joy and peace in believing, that you may
of His calling [assurance/ clarity of God’s call for our abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
life], what are the riches of the glory of His (Rom. 15:5-6, 13)
inheritance in the saints [our destiny as Jesus’ ------------
inheritance], 19 and what is the exceeding greatness
of His power toward us who believe, according to Pray to be enriched by all the gifts of the Spirit,
the working of His mighty power... (Eph. 1:17-19) including powerful preaching and prophetic
------------ revelation.
5 That you were enriched in everything by Him in
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
54
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
That the Word will increase its influence For the release of God’s promise to pour out His
(effectiveness) in the city as God releases His power Spirit and release dreams, visions, and prophecy.
on it. 17In the last days, says God, that I will pour out of
1 Pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters
[rapidly increase its influence] and be glorified shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions,
[confirmed with apostolic power and miracles], just your old men shall dream dreams. 18On My
as it is with you... 3 The Lord is faithful, who will menservants and on My maidservants I will pour
establish you and guard you from the evil one...5 out My Spirit in those days; and they shall
May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God prophesy. 19I will show wonders
and into the patience [perseverance or endurance] in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath:
of Christ. (2 Thes.3:1-5) blood, fire and vapor of smoke. 20The sun shall be
------------ turned into darkness, and the moon into blood,
BEFORE the coming of the great and awesome
For impartation of boldness (singing and speaking day of the Lord. 21Whoever calls on the name of
the Word) by releasing healing, signs, and wonders. the LORD shall be saved. (Acts 2:17-21)
29Lord... grant to Your servants that with all boldness ------------
they may speak Your word, 30 by stretching out Your
hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be Prayer for Israel to be saved and the release of the
done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus. 31 prophetic anointing, miracles, and righteousness.
And when they had prayed, the place where they 1 My heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is
were assembled together was shaken; and they that they may be saved. (Rom. 10:1)
were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the
word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:29-31) 26All Israel will be saved... The Deliverer [Jesus] will
------------ come out of Zion. He will turn away ungodliness
from Jacob; 27For this is My covenant with them,
For the Lord to release His zeal for His people and when I take away their sins. (Rom. 11:26-27)
for His manifest Presence to shake all that resists
Him. 1For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace [be silent;
15 Look down... and see from Your habitation, holy release a prophetic spirit], and for Jerusalem’s
and glorious. Where are [the manifestations of] Your sake I will not rest [or I will not be inactive: release
zeal and Your strength, the yearning of Your heart power], UNTIL her righteousness [in all heart issues]
and Your mercies toward me? 16...You, O Lord, are goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a
our Father, Our redeemer from Everlasting is Your lamp that burns [ministry to others]. (Isa. 62:1)
name. 64:1 Oh, that you would rend the heavens! That ------------
You would come down [manifest Your power]! That
the mountains [obstacles] might shake at Your Pray to know God’s will and to be fruitful in ministry
presence—2 as fire burns brushwood, as fire causes and strengthened by intimacy with Him.
water to boil—to make Your name known to Your 9 That you may be filled with the knowledge of His
adversaries [sin, sickness, Satan], that the nations will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
may tremble at Your presence! 3 When You did 10that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord,
awesome things for which we did not look fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good
[expect]... 4 Since the beginning of the world men work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
have no 11strengthened with all might, according to His
heard...nor has the eye seen any God besides You, glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering
who acts for the one who waits for Him. 5 You meet with joy... (Col. 1:9-11)
him who rejoices and does righteousness, who
remembers you in Your ways. (Isa. 63:15-16; 64:1-7)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org
55
Decatur House of Prayer Handbook
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
TERMS USED AT DHOP
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Decatur House of Prayer
www.decaturhop.org