Listening to the Universe
is a private thing, but I can do it anywhere. It's just me being quiet and aware.
Talking to God is very private and best confined to closets, as you, ER, and Matthew have all pointed out. That's why I avoid congregations. This gathering with friends is bittersweet: the community is nice, its purpose profoundly sad, the adherence to a religeous sect not apparent. We gather to help support someone we love. To call it a prayer meeting is the wrong term.