Why pray?
As the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Tim 2:1-4)
Praying for our leaders pleases God and is missional in effect – it is part of His gospel plan of salvation for all people. We join God in mission when we pray!
Who are you calling to pray?
All Methodists, and friends in the Methodist community who have a heart to see the Methodist church grow and flourish in ministry as part of the larger Body of Christ.
What am I praying for?
The most important meeting of The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS), which will set its plans and directions for the next four years – the 11th Session of the General Conference or GC 2016. (Read more about the GC in Methodist Message March 2016, P4.)
Items you can pray for:
- Elections of major office-holders such as the Bishop, and Chairpersons of various Councils that oversee the church’s work over the next four years.
- Decisions made on behalf of the MCS, such as matters of church law and policy. This includes amendments to The Book of Discipline, which are debated and discussed before being accepted.
- Reports on work done in the last four years, and plans laid for the coming four years and beyond.
- Good health, protection and alertness for the delegates and supporting staff, that the proceedings may be carried out smoothly and thoroughly.
Look out for updates at www.methodist.org.sg, www.facebook.com/Methodist.SG (requires login) and www.instagram.com/Methodist.SG during the Session.
When do I need to pray?
GC 2016 will be held in two parts:
- 12-16 Sep 2016
- 1-2 Dec 2016
However, do keep our preparations in prayer in the run-up to the Session as well, and after the Session when much work will be required to follow through on decisions made then. (All the better if you can continue praying for the volunteer council members and staff, right through to the next quadrennium!)
Where must I go to pray?
Intercessors are not required to meet in person – do pray wherever you are, although organising your own prayer groups may help provide reminders to pray. You may even wish to set up e-groups or WhatsApp groups to keep GC 2016 in prayer.
We look forward to your vital participation through prayer!
Join in praying for the Methodist Church year-round – sign up at http://tinyurl.com/prayforMCS to receive monthly prayer updates so you can keep informed and pray specifically!