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Cloud of Witnesses: A Treasury of Prayers and Petitions through the Ages
A Comprehensive Anthology of Prayers and Petitions throughout Church History Throughout history, Christians have sought guidance to bolster their spiritual walk with Christ and life of prayer. Even Christ’s disciples would ask, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). But in our current individualistic culture, it’s almost too easy to neglect the wisdom of those who came before us. To restore a love of historic Christian tradition, theology, and practice, this comprehensive anthology combines prayers and petitions of the greatest figures throughout the formation of the church, continuing through the medieval, Reformation, and modern eras. Editors Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter provide context for each prayer through expert introductions, commentary, and biographical explorations. Ultimately readers will be encouraged in their faith as they learn the importance of prayer and witness the hearts and struggles of the saints.
344 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2024
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317 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 11, 2024
I really liked this book. A collection of prayers across a range of reformed church heritage. There are prayers from the patristics, medieval divines, reformers, all the way to 19th century Protestants. These prayers also span a wide range of topics from the simplest plea to the most theology-soaked pastoral prayer.
I also appreciated the appendices. The authors included a short biography on each Christian whose prayer was featured in the book. Finally (and most nerdy), they included an appendix with all of prayers transcribed exactly how they were written in the original language (Greek, Latin, old English, etc). I appreciate that the authors took their scholarship seriously and very helpful resources. Perhaps they may stir in the reader a desire to further research the life and works of the one of the Christians featured in this book!
I also appreciated the appendices. The authors included a short biography on each Christian whose prayer was featured in the book. Finally (and most nerdy), they included an appendix with all of prayers transcribed exactly how they were written in the original language (Greek, Latin, old English, etc). I appreciate that the authors took their scholarship seriously and very helpful resources. Perhaps they may stir in the reader a desire to further research the life and works of the one of the Christians featured in this book!
December 10, 2024
Absolutely wonderful.
September 30, 2024
2.5 stars. Rounded up because this isn't bad, most of it just didn't appeal to me. I do, however, think it's rather sad that this collection that's supposed to be from the historical cloud of witnesses surrounding us doesn't contain a single prayer written by a woman.
April 9, 2025
A superb treasury of prayers are across the ages.
There is a biographical background to each of the authors.
The appendix also has the original version of each prayer.
A wonderful companion to prayer.
There is a biographical background to each of the authors.
The appendix also has the original version of each prayer.
A wonderful companion to prayer.
November 22, 2024
This is a book I didn't expect to enjoy so much. In contrast, I previously read a different book of prayers, anticipating something like a successor to the Valley of Vision. But I found it rather flat. I went into this volume with low exceptions and found myself feeling like workers at Sutter's Mill who just discovered pure gold. I love this book. The selected prayers are fresh and penetrating. They are steeped in biblical language and an evident love for God. Several times, I broke out in prayer while reading the book! There is also a nice balance from across church history, rather than being focused on one era. The historical notes and explanations of the text of interesting in themselves. And the original language prayers in the Appendix were a welcome treat. This book is highly instructive for anyone seeking a better prayer life.
August 31, 2024
5 stars
Living up to its name, this book is truly a treasure and valuable resource to own. Filled with prayers from the early church to the modern day, Arnold and Carter provide a beautifully organized and researched collection of prayers. Translated for the modern reader, one can also find the original language/text and background on the author/source of the prayer.
I personally plan to utilize this book as an ongoing resource to help my own prayer life. The cover is gorgeous and it would make a great gift.
Living up to its name, this book is truly a treasure and valuable resource to own. Filled with prayers from the early church to the modern day, Arnold and Carter provide a beautifully organized and researched collection of prayers. Translated for the modern reader, one can also find the original language/text and background on the author/source of the prayer.
I personally plan to utilize this book as an ongoing resource to help my own prayer life. The cover is gorgeous and it would make a great gift.
September 2, 2024
This was a sweet supplement to my daily quiet time. These prayers and petitions throughout history are rich in theology and application. These prayers are from those that labored tirelessly for the Lord. May we continue to echo these prayers today. I loved this book. There was also a lot of really neat history per each writer (author of the prayer). A great source in history as well!
May 6, 2025
This was a good little resource full of rich prayers from church history. It also has helpful sections in the back which provide the historical context to each of the prayers. I’d recommend this for people who want to engage church history on a spiritual level.
August 7, 2024
A fantastic walk through history by prayers. Experience the richness of prayer throughout time as you read prayers from several different ages of the church.
July 8, 2025
Such an encouraging, rich, and sound book filled with prayers and petitions from great theologians! I personally prayed through a couple for my daily devotion, and found it to be so encouraging, and helpful to open my heart to the word of God! A super good resource to have, the index in the back is also really helpful and gives topics and the correlating prayer(s). I highly recommend, could be used for individual study, family worship, or corporate prayer.
“…True God, help me receive, “that my joy may be full” (John 16:24). In the meantime, let my mind meditate on it. Let my younger speak of it. Let my heart love it, my mouth proclaim it. Let all of me hunger for it, my flesh thirst for it, my whole substance long for it, until “I enter into the joy of my Lord” (Matt. 25:21), who in God, triune and one, “blessed forever. Amen” (Rom 1:35” -Anselm (1033/34-1109)
“…True God, help me receive, “that my joy may be full” (John 16:24). In the meantime, let my mind meditate on it. Let my younger speak of it. Let my heart love it, my mouth proclaim it. Let all of me hunger for it, my flesh thirst for it, my whole substance long for it, until “I enter into the joy of my Lord” (Matt. 25:21), who in God, triune and one, “blessed forever. Amen” (Rom 1:35” -Anselm (1033/34-1109)
November 14, 2024
A bank of rich prayers collected from generations of faithful saints to revive and deepen your own prayer life. Highly recommend this resource to meditate on and incorporate into your regular spiritual habits.
April 27, 2024
5+ Stars!
Cloud of Witnesses - A Treasury of Prayers & Petitions through the Ages is like a time-traveling adventure through the prayers of Christians across history. Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter put together this extraordinary book that is filled with magnificent, awe-inspiring treasures – prayers from way back when till now.
In a world where everyone's all about the latest and greatest, this book reminds us that the old stuff is gold. It's like getting to peek into the hearts of all these famous Christians from ages ago, seeing what they said to God when they prayed.
Each prayer isn't just words on a page; it's little pieces of someone's soul, poured out to our awesome, unchanging, faithful God. From the humble prayers of figures like Clement of Rome to the bold and courageous ones of Martin Luther, you can tangibly sense the profound depth of their faith, firmly anchored in unwavering trust in God and His promises, and intricately woven with the knowledge and faith in the inseparable work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
From the very first prayer I encountered in Cloud of Witnesses, I was captivated by the profound depth of faith that permeates each page. As I journeyed through the prayers of Christians across history, I found myself deeply moved by the devotion and timeless truths they convey. Each prayer, regardless of its origin or author, continues to impact me and my walk with God.
Regardless of your spiritual maturity, these prayers can serve as a launching pad for your own conversations with God. They provide ideas and inspiration for what to say when you're reaching out to Him. The editors have given us superb examples and templates, empowering us to craft our own sincere, heartfelt prayers to the one and only true and living God.
The book's laid out really nicely, too. It's divided up by different time periods, with a bit of background info at the start of each section. So, even if you're not a history buff, you can still get why these prayers are so special.
And hey, if you're into digging deep, there's even some original language stuff in the back. Plus, indexes to help you find what you're looking for.
Here is a quote from the editors: “…it is intended to encourage you to greater faith, remind you that you are not alone even in your struggles, provide a template for prayer when you are at a loss for words, and allow you to see that we are all walking this journey of faith among a great cloud of witnesses to the faithfulness of the one true God.” Wow! Everyone should own a copy of this treasure!
Cloud of Witnesses isn't just a book – it’s a sanctuary overflowing with the richness of faith and God’s faithfulness. It's like having a bunch of wise old friends cheering you on in your own journey with God. Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter did an awesome job putting this together, and it's definitely something I don’t ever want to leave my hands. In fact, I think I’ll order the digital version -- so it is always with me!
I received a hardback copy of Cloud of Witnesses from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the content and substance of this book, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Cloud of Witnesses - A Treasury of Prayers & Petitions through the Ages is like a time-traveling adventure through the prayers of Christians across history. Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter put together this extraordinary book that is filled with magnificent, awe-inspiring treasures – prayers from way back when till now.
In a world where everyone's all about the latest and greatest, this book reminds us that the old stuff is gold. It's like getting to peek into the hearts of all these famous Christians from ages ago, seeing what they said to God when they prayed.
Each prayer isn't just words on a page; it's little pieces of someone's soul, poured out to our awesome, unchanging, faithful God. From the humble prayers of figures like Clement of Rome to the bold and courageous ones of Martin Luther, you can tangibly sense the profound depth of their faith, firmly anchored in unwavering trust in God and His promises, and intricately woven with the knowledge and faith in the inseparable work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
From the very first prayer I encountered in Cloud of Witnesses, I was captivated by the profound depth of faith that permeates each page. As I journeyed through the prayers of Christians across history, I found myself deeply moved by the devotion and timeless truths they convey. Each prayer, regardless of its origin or author, continues to impact me and my walk with God.
Regardless of your spiritual maturity, these prayers can serve as a launching pad for your own conversations with God. They provide ideas and inspiration for what to say when you're reaching out to Him. The editors have given us superb examples and templates, empowering us to craft our own sincere, heartfelt prayers to the one and only true and living God.
The book's laid out really nicely, too. It's divided up by different time periods, with a bit of background info at the start of each section. So, even if you're not a history buff, you can still get why these prayers are so special.
And hey, if you're into digging deep, there's even some original language stuff in the back. Plus, indexes to help you find what you're looking for.
Here is a quote from the editors: “…it is intended to encourage you to greater faith, remind you that you are not alone even in your struggles, provide a template for prayer when you are at a loss for words, and allow you to see that we are all walking this journey of faith among a great cloud of witnesses to the faithfulness of the one true God.” Wow! Everyone should own a copy of this treasure!
Cloud of Witnesses isn't just a book – it’s a sanctuary overflowing with the richness of faith and God’s faithfulness. It's like having a bunch of wise old friends cheering you on in your own journey with God. Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter did an awesome job putting this together, and it's definitely something I don’t ever want to leave my hands. In fact, I think I’ll order the digital version -- so it is always with me!
I received a hardback copy of Cloud of Witnesses from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the content and substance of this book, ensuring transparency and reliability.
November 26, 2024
First sentence: He said to them, "When you pray, say: 'Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.'"
Cloud of Witnesses is a collection of [historic] prayers. This book of prayer features exactly one hundred prayers covering a wide range of subjects, themes, topics. The book is organized relatively chronological. The first section of the prayer book covers the early church (100-500), the medieval church (600-1500), the reformation church (1500-1700), and finally the modern church (1700-1900). The second section isn't so much a 'prayer book' as a history lesson. It features mini-introductions of all the writers included in the one hundred prayers. Again these mini-biographies are arranged chronologically. They do provide greater context for appreciating the one hundred prayers. The third section is technically the appendix, this section might be the least practical, however it isn't without its charms. This third section features the one hundred prayers in their original languages--or the source material for which these English translations are made.
If you are looking for a prayer covering a specific topic or subject, there is an index for that.
The prayers vary in length and style. Some are very short, concise, practical. Others are longer--much longer. A few seem a little too wordy to be practical. But overall, I enjoyed reading this devotional prayer book.
Prayer number 14 (Old Gallican Rite)
Grant holiness to new believers, O Father. Give knowledge to the ignorant. Give aide to those who are running their course. Give sorrow to those who have erred without knowledge. Give passion to those who are lukewarm. To those who are mature, give a good ending. We ask all of this for the sake of Christ Jesus, our Lord, Amen.
Prayer number 70 (Thomas Cranmer)
Blessed Lord, who has caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning, allow us to hear them, read them, mark them, learn them, and inwardly digest them in such a way that, by the patience and comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and ever hold on to the blessed hope of everlasting life that you have given to us in our Savior, Jesus Christ.
I am so glad that I read this one! Don't be intimidated. The one hundred prayers make up a small part of this one. They can be read and reread.
Cloud of Witnesses is a collection of [historic] prayers. This book of prayer features exactly one hundred prayers covering a wide range of subjects, themes, topics. The book is organized relatively chronological. The first section of the prayer book covers the early church (100-500), the medieval church (600-1500), the reformation church (1500-1700), and finally the modern church (1700-1900). The second section isn't so much a 'prayer book' as a history lesson. It features mini-introductions of all the writers included in the one hundred prayers. Again these mini-biographies are arranged chronologically. They do provide greater context for appreciating the one hundred prayers. The third section is technically the appendix, this section might be the least practical, however it isn't without its charms. This third section features the one hundred prayers in their original languages--or the source material for which these English translations are made.
If you are looking for a prayer covering a specific topic or subject, there is an index for that.
The prayers vary in length and style. Some are very short, concise, practical. Others are longer--much longer. A few seem a little too wordy to be practical. But overall, I enjoyed reading this devotional prayer book.
Prayer number 14 (Old Gallican Rite)
Grant holiness to new believers, O Father. Give knowledge to the ignorant. Give aide to those who are running their course. Give sorrow to those who have erred without knowledge. Give passion to those who are lukewarm. To those who are mature, give a good ending. We ask all of this for the sake of Christ Jesus, our Lord, Amen.
Prayer number 70 (Thomas Cranmer)
Blessed Lord, who has caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning, allow us to hear them, read them, mark them, learn them, and inwardly digest them in such a way that, by the patience and comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and ever hold on to the blessed hope of everlasting life that you have given to us in our Savior, Jesus Christ.
I am so glad that I read this one! Don't be intimidated. The one hundred prayers make up a small part of this one. They can be read and reread.
June 7, 2024
Ever since attending and belonging to an Anglican Church, we have been interested in ways to bring literacy and church history into our home to help build our faith and be encouraged by "so great a cloud of witnesses" that have come before us. This book is filled with historical prayers from many denominations, generations, locations, and centuries! We are reading one prayer a day as part of our homeschool morning time rhythms. This works really well because many of the prayers have historical information that we get to read in addition to better know and understand the context of these prayers. Even though my kids are young, they are picking up on habits and rhythms of talking to God through these prayers. I love to hear my 5-year-old at the dinner table saying things like "most merciful God" and "we praise you and thank you for your abundant blessings." It helps all of us to have a growing bank of words and ways to pray to the Lord to help grow our relationship with him. Every historical prayer was personal to someone and can be personal to us too!
My only complaint is that I wish the book was organized to have the history of the prayers right after the written prayer OR two built-in bookmark ribbons so that I can mark my place in the prayers as well as the historical context area.
My only complaint is that I wish the book was organized to have the history of the prayers right after the written prayer OR two built-in bookmark ribbons so that I can mark my place in the prayers as well as the historical context area.
June 15, 2024
The new book put out by Crossway Publishers is going to be a classic and one all Christians should want to own! Cloud of Witnesses: A Treasury of Prayers and Petitions through the Ages Edited by Jonathan W. Arnold, Zachariah M. Carter
This hard-cover book is absolutely beautiful inside and out! The book is put together based on the scripture. “Lord, teach us to pray – Luke 11:1. This is a gathering of prayers and writings from over the ages, from the Early Church 100-800, Medieval Church 800-1500, Reformation Church 1500-1700, and the Modern Church 1700-1900.
The editors provide an explanation of how and why these are gathered and how to use them. This is a reminder to think of these as examples and templates to use.
If you are looking for a book for yourself to help you deepen the importance of prayer or a book to gift, this is one you book you will want to get! It is a perfect book to keep by your bedside or reading area.
This hard-cover book is absolutely beautiful inside and out! The book is put together based on the scripture. “Lord, teach us to pray – Luke 11:1. This is a gathering of prayers and writings from over the ages, from the Early Church 100-800, Medieval Church 800-1500, Reformation Church 1500-1700, and the Modern Church 1700-1900.
The editors provide an explanation of how and why these are gathered and how to use them. This is a reminder to think of these as examples and templates to use.
If you are looking for a book for yourself to help you deepen the importance of prayer or a book to gift, this is one you book you will want to get! It is a perfect book to keep by your bedside or reading area.
May 7, 2025
These prayers have deeply moved my heart- what an anthology! I have my copy marked up, highlighted, underlined and full of sticky notes.
I appreciate the three sections of the book: the prayers, the historical backgrounds of those who wrote them and then the original text. Very thorough in this sense.
I will use this as a resource continually!
The reason for one star deducted is that although the editors state in the introduction they “sought to provide a broad glimpse into the faith of the church for readers of all backgrounds,” there is not one female voice represented in this book a MANY prayers. It seems these two Baptist dudes were very choosy, as a whole, when it comes the voices that are actually represented. That was quite disappointing, but unfortunately not surprising.
Nevertheless, I am choosing to get over this & cherish this collection of prayers.
I appreciate the three sections of the book: the prayers, the historical backgrounds of those who wrote them and then the original text. Very thorough in this sense.
I will use this as a resource continually!
The reason for one star deducted is that although the editors state in the introduction they “sought to provide a broad glimpse into the faith of the church for readers of all backgrounds,” there is not one female voice represented in this book a MANY prayers. It seems these two Baptist dudes were very choosy, as a whole, when it comes the voices that are actually represented. That was quite disappointing, but unfortunately not surprising.
Nevertheless, I am choosing to get over this & cherish this collection of prayers.
November 5, 2025
Read hard cover. This prayer book was given to me as a gift. I truly treasure this book and the one who gave it to me.
It is filled with the words of previous generations of believers and Church leaders. The book is broken down into 100 prayers and then a bio of each author, what was happening at the time they lived, and what positions they held in the Church. It also contains the prayers in their original form and language (but I didn’t read that part 😉).
I first read and prayed through the 100 prayers and then went back and read the bios of the men and their prayers a second time.
What a rich treasure we have in the Word of God and those obedient to Him in prayer. So much of what they prayed is still very relevant today.
Very strongly recommend. I will read this over and over again.
It is filled with the words of previous generations of believers and Church leaders. The book is broken down into 100 prayers and then a bio of each author, what was happening at the time they lived, and what positions they held in the Church. It also contains the prayers in their original form and language (but I didn’t read that part 😉).
I first read and prayed through the 100 prayers and then went back and read the bios of the men and their prayers a second time.
What a rich treasure we have in the Word of God and those obedient to Him in prayer. So much of what they prayed is still very relevant today.
Very strongly recommend. I will read this over and over again.
August 16, 2024
Was looking for this resource. Exactly what I needed. I appreciate the preface part where a good explanation is given to why Protestants should consider written prayers passed to us throughout the centuries.
April 24, 2024
Very good! New translations w/ originals in final section. Historical bios of selection authors. Unique and helpful collection of prayers from across the great tradition.
June 4, 2024
AMAZING
Read
August 27, 2024Not sure how to rate this… it’s more like a reference book, compiling a sample of prayers from different eras. The appendix includes some of the prayers in their original language.
January 10, 2025
If you like church history. If you like a quick devotional. This book of prayers is very very good.
January 12, 2025
A helpful look at church history. Prayers from various sources and short bios of church leaders from different eras.
February 19, 2025
Really enjoyed reading this treasury of prayers through history. I appreciated the short bios of each author. It would be a neat read alongside a church history class.
May 6, 2025
Do you struggle to find the right words to pray? Read a few of the prayers of saints that have traveled this earth before us. Read as they share the prayers of past ages.
August 13, 2025
More than just a collection of prayers, the historical introductions guide you through the contexts these prayers were written in.
May 31, 2025
Includes 100 prayers spanning the Church age. Includes biographical details for each prayer writer. Each prayer has been given a title, making it easy to find something appropriate for a specific situation. Beautiful hardback with ribbon marker.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews