Linda Griggs
Director of Christian Formation
Generations Prayer Partnerships:
A Spiritual Discipline for Advent (and Beyond)
Advent is a prayerful time-a season when the Church encourages us to make room for God. This can be a challenge at a time when spiritual and worldly cultures seem to be in competition. But the world is not a bad thing in itself; after all, God became part of God's own creation in Jesus. So as we prepare to celebrate Emmanuel-God With Us-- I invite you to enter into a special partnership at St. Martin's-a prayerful partnership.
Praying for someone, and knowing that someone is praying for you, can be a meaningful part of your spiritual life. Generations Prayer Partnerships seeks to pair adults and young people who agree to include each other in their regular prayers.
How much you do with this prayer relationship is up to you. You may be inspired to say hello at coffee hour. You may want to make sure you exchange the Peace with your prayer partner during a worship service. Younger children may want to remember their prayer partners in their bedtime prayers or as part of table grace. It is your choice, as long as you are willing to be faithful in holding your partner in prayer regularly.
If you would like to be part of this partnership just fill out a sign-up form. The forms will be in the bulletins on Sunday as well as in a basket at the back of the church. Or you can contact me at [email protected]. Check the appropriate box indicating whether you are age 0-18 or 19-above. I will collect the forms, match names together and let each of you know who your Prayer Partner will be. Please return your completed form by 30 November.
No one will be checking up on you-it's between you, the person for whom you pray, and God. It is my prayer that this partnership will be a fruitful one in this season of hope and anticipation.
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There are a number of other formation opportunities coming up:
Our Advent Festival will take place in the Great Hall after the 10:00 a.m. service on 30 November. Make an Advent wreath to take home for family worship. Materials will be provided for a suggested donation of $10. Feel free to bring floral clippers, wire cutters, or even your own wreath form if you would prefer.
While at the Advent Festival plan to sign up to participate in our Christmas Pageant on Christmas Eve at 4:00 p.m.
Finally, this month's Youth and Family Dinner Church is going on the road! Join us on 21 December at 5:00 at ECC for their annual Advent Service in the Barn followed by a simple supper. Follow this link for details.
Peace and Cheers,
Linda