“Always be joyful. Never stop praying” (1 Thes. 5:16-17).

This Week’s Prayers of the People. Loving God, hear our prayers…

Let us pray:

Pastor Kevin is home, recovering from  cancer surgery on 2/20. The prayers and expressions of love and support mean so much to him and Melissa. We are grateful to the worship and preaching team for providing great experiences until Pastor Kevin returns to full health.

Mary Wender, liver failure. Mary Jane on passing of Dale Moyer, Larry’ barber. George Barsby recovering at home. Chris Randle, Carlene Moyer’s brother, home recovering, (heart attack). Larry’s cousin’s daughter Cathy passed away. Paul Haggy. Laurie Johnson. Michael with ALS. The people of Turkey and Syria as they struggle in the aftermath of devastating earthquakes. Rev. Doug Madden and Rev. Reeder (surgery). Lloyd and Sharron Posnikoff, Eileen and David Word. Glenn McDonough. Those on hospice: Bob Fite, Gertrude Hess. For healing: Susan Dehart, Eileen Stalford is doing better Barbara Smith. Those undergoing cancer treatment: Robin B, Carmela G, Mike, Kim, Steve, Rickey, Lorraine, Kate, Candy, and Dr. Regina.

We mourn racial injustice and gun violence in our country. We pray we would love mercy, do justice, and walk humbly as Jesus’ followers. We pray for the people of Ukraine. We pray for those suffering from Covid-19 and severe weather events. We pray for those serving in healthcare, law enforcement, fire, government, armed forces, education, and business.

Our 2023 mission theme is Be Involved! Ask God to show you how to become more involved serving our communities. Praying is a great first step to being involved!

What is Prayer?

Prayer may best be described as a conversation with God. While folding our hands is frequently associated with someone praying, hand-folding is not required for God to hear us, of course! Eyes open or closed. Standing, sitting, walking, driving, or any possible activity can be a perfect context for talking to God. Record, write or draw your prayers. Remember, the apostle Paul said to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). So, the main thing is just to pray.

How Important Is Prayer? What is your response when someone offers to pray for you? You welcome the prayer, right? Have you ever replied, “No thanks, I don’t want your prayer”? Some people may resist the idea of prayer for many reasons, but most of the time, people welcome prayer. Jesus models a life deeply expressed by prayer. Our active prayer list engages us. Every week, we share requests and answers to prayers that encourage all of us.