21st January 2006

Pray without ceasing begins in the Leeds District

Almost 100 people gathered for a communion service at Oxford Place in the centre of Leeds to launch the Leeds District ‘Pray without Ceasing’ fortnight, when Leeds took over the baton of prayer from the Isle of Man.

The Chair of District, the Revd Michael Townsend, presided and the address was given by the Revd Bev Hollings, the District Evangelism Enabler. She reminded people that God delights when we simply spend time with him as his children; gave examples of ‘co-incidents’ which happened as people prayed and encouraged people to ‘stand in the gap’ in repentance and prayer for our communities.

The District candle, which was received from the launch of Pray Without Ceasing at the Methodist Conference 2005, was used to light other candles. Candles were lit by representatives of each Circuit to be taken back for use during their events in the coming fortnight. Prayer now starts in earnest across the District.

In some circuits Prayer Rooms will be open for anything from 12 hours to 7 days. People are committing themselves to pray in their own homes. Prayer breakfasts, lunches, safaris and walks are being organised, a Prayer Café will be open, special services held and lots more besides. Click here to see when each circuit is involved.

The District will gather at Hunslet Methodist on Saturday 28th January at 2pm for Praying Together with 12 workshops to choose from in the afternoon and a worship and prayer event in the evening. Book your workshops now to avoid disappointment!

The baton passes to Lincoln and Grimsby on 3rd February but special liturgy will be used in all churches on 5th February to give thanks for this special period of prayer and as a commitment to go on praying.

At the front of the Church was displayed a banner which had been created by a member in Cornwall for their fortnight and sent on to Leeds as a sign of the continued chain of prayer across the Connexion. Another banner which is touring the country during the year of prayer was displayed outside informing passers by what was happening.

Click photos to enlarge them

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