Prayer app study: does daily devotion beat stress?

NCT ID NCT05622604

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether using a Christian prayer app (Pray.com) could reduce stress in adults who reported high stress levels. 312 participants were randomly assigned to use the app freely, listen to guided meditative prayers, or join a waitlist. Stress, anxiety, and mindfulness were measured at the start, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Pray.com mobile app (Christian prayer and meditation)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a simple, low-cost way to help people manage stress using religious or meditative practices.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed study with no phase designation. Results may not apply to everyone, and the effect may be small or due to placebo.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Biola University

    La Mirada, California, 90639, United States

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