01/06/2024
Let’s Pray Together
Lord, John Wesley envisioned holy conferencing as a means of grace and a way for you to shape our lives. Help us remember that General Conference is so much more than a business meeting - it truly is holy conferencing. We pray that it will be a powerful means of grace for The United Methodist Church this coming spring. Prepare us to receive more from you than we could ask or imagine.
As clergy and laity from four continents gathered in Charlotte, we ask for visas to arrive in a timely manner; for safe travel; for comfortable lodging and good health; for clear and loving communication as we pray, worship, and make decisions. Provide sacred space for meaningful dialog and for healing of divisions throughout The United Methodist Church. Guide each participant attending General Conference and each congregation of The United Methodist Church.
As we wait for your direction, reveal ways we can each be faithful servants and followers of Jesus. Teach us to be accountable to you and to one another. Fill us with the Holy Spirit so our actions and relationships reflect the fruit of the Spirit as we exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Holy One, you invite us to live in a countercultural and Christlike way. When we are poor in spirit, give us a growing awareness of your love and care. When we mourn, comfort us. When we are angry, remind us of your meekness. Show us how to be both merciful and pure in heart. Inspire us to be peacemakers.
Most of all, we ask for your divine presence to be revealed at General Conference and throughout our congregations. Help us remember that every person is a child of God. Because our experiences are diverse, we trust you to grow our understanding of what it means to love you and our neighbor.
We claim the promises and instructions found in Deuteronomy 31:8 (MSG): God is striding ahead of you. He's right there with you. He won't let you down; he won't leave you. Don't be intimidated. Don't worry.
We are yours and we want to be all that you desire. Let it be so with each of us. ln Christ's name, amen.
Submitted by: Renni Morris