Upton Methodist Church - Prayer Diary

Upton Methodist Church Prayer Diary March 2009

This month we are saking for prayers for:-
The diversity of our world.
Prayers for those who live in poverty.
Prayers for those who who cannot read or write and those helping them to learn.
Prayers for those who are hungry and the agencies trying to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.
Prayers for those who those who are dying and those who grieve.
Prayers for the newborn and those who deliver them.
Prayers for those who develop new technologies, that they may use their skills to benefit all.
Prayers for those in education and those who are uneducated.
Prayers for the sick and those who care for them.
Prayers for those who have experienced the horror of war, solitude of prison, and the pain of torture.
Prayers for those who are persecuted for their faith.
Prayers for those who are homeless and homeless charities.
Prayers for those who have money worries and those who face unemployment.
Prayers for families everywhere.

Upton Methodist Church Prayer Diary January/February 2009

Sunday:
The Nazareth School of Nursing offers training to both men and women, Muslims, Christians and Jews all learn alongside each other. Pray for the students in this diversity - for understanding and tolerance.

Monday:
African Hope Learning Centre in Cairo provides education, medical care and daily nutritious meals to 500 Sudanese refugee children who, as they have no legal status, are excluded from other schools. Please pray for the Centre and for the children.

Tuesday
The Jesuit Brothers' Association runs a residential Vocational Training Centre for children and adults with physical and learning disabilities, and outreach programmes for families in the surrounding villages. Please pray for all who give and those who recieve this service.

Wednesday
Shams el Birr, on the outskirts of Cairo, is a centre for children and adults with visual impairments and a variety of learning disabilities. With a focus on inclusion, the centre supports each individual, as well as their family and the local community. Pray that each person will be able to reach their full potential with the centre's help

Thursday
The St Andrew's Refugee Services in Cairo provides support and training to the many refugees in Egypt, offering displaced people a hope and a future not simply as a programme, but rather a community, serving each other. Please pray for the staff, as they continue to provide care and practical help to those who have lost everything.

Friday
The Bethlehem Arab Society for Rehabilitation cares for children with severe physical disabilities, many having suffered injury as a result of the unrest in Israel and the Occupied Territories. Please pray for the children, as they learn how to live with their disabilities.

Saturday
The Helen Keller Centre for the Visually Impaired, in Jerusalem, provides a specialised primary education and support for when students move on to their secondary (often mainstream) school. The staff at Helen Keller ask for prayers for continued dedication, and for the children.

THE METHODIST CHURCH AT UPTON

PRAYER DIARY FOR DECEMBER 2008

SUNDAY

God is our loving Father. We all belong to God's family. We can all come to his house
to say to him:

"We love you,
God our Father.
We thank you for
Jesus your Son.
Send us your Holy Spirit."

Words taken from A Mass Book for Young Children published by HarperCollinsReligious

MONDAY Let us pray:
For the Church of Christ as it exists in this place where we belong.
That we continue to grow together in Christ centred fellowship.
That together we discover more of the detail of God's mission plan for our church.
For our Minister, Helen, and all those who share in the directing of our church's resources and energies.

TUESDAY Let us pray:
For the community which surrounds us based on whatever insight we have into its problems and needs,
and
for more certainty about how our church can and ought to be a meaningful presence in Upton.

WED'DAY Let us pray:
For wisdom about what our response should be when faced with news of the world's needs, its troubles and disasters and about how we should pray for and help resource the caring and aiding agencies which distressed people rely on.

THUR'DAY Let us pray,
as we read our newspapers and watch the television newscasts and see injustice, oppression and war being made without end, that our God will reassure us that praying against these things has usefulness.
and
for leaders of nations and others who wield power and influence, that those who are men and women of good intention may be powerfully used to change even those things about which one could despair.

FRIDAY Let us pray:
For those we know and love and for those we only know about and are yet called to love;
for all in sorrow, need, anxiety or sickness,
for the neglected, the persecuted and the lonely,
and for those in any need or trouble.
and
let us pray too that, as we pray for others, we may have assurance that others care about us and pray for us in our need.

SAT'DAY This day and every day we can remember with thanks what God has done for us:
I belong
to God's family.

He gives me
his life
and his love.

and
each day acknowledge our undeserving:
I am not always good,

I am sorry
for the times
I do not love my neighbour.

I ask God
to help me

Lord have mercy.

Adapted from A mass Book for Young Children

A PRAYER FOR THE ADVENT SEASON

Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and to put on the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which your Son Jesus Christ came to us in great humility: so that on the last day; when he shall come again in his glorious Majesty to judge the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Collect for the First Sunday in Advent : Methodist Service Book of 1975

Prayer Diary November 2008

SUNDAY That we might welcome this and every day as a gift and an opportunity to be useful to God the giver of it.
Dear father, take this day's life into thine own keeping. Control all my thoughts and feelings. Direct all my energies. Instruct my mind. Sustain my will. Take my hands and make them skilful to serve thee. Take my feet and make them swift to do thy bidding. Take my eyes and keep them fixed upon thine everlasting beauty. Take my mouth and make it eloquent in testimony to thy love. Make this day a day of obedience, a day of spiritual joy and peace. Make what I do this day a little part of the work of the Kingdom of my Lord Christ, in whose name these my prayers are said. Amen
From A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie sometime Professor of Divinity Edinburgh University
Awake my soul and with the sun thy daily stage of duty run;
Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise to pay thy morning sacrifice
Redeem thy misspent moments past, and live this day as if thy last;
Improve thy talent with due care; for the great day thyself prepare.
Hymns & Psalms 632 Thomas Ken 1637 - 1711

MONDAY For a fair share for all in God's provision.
Worldwide, fair trade sales totalled $2.6 billion in 2006 according to the International Fair Trade Association. Seems a lot, a matter for rejoicing.
Of $3.6 trillion of all goods traded globally, fair trade accounts for only 0.01%. A long way still to go.
The Fair Trade stall in our church is a time to time reminder to us, and shops which now stock fair trade goods are a challenge to us and a means to inform our praying.
"Across the world, across the street, the victims of injustice cry for shelter and for bread to eat , and never live until they die."
Hymns & Psalms 804 A reminder that Fair Trade enables people to earn their bread to eat and to live with dignity and not as beggars.

TUESDAY "That God will increase our faith in his ability to act in the life of his church here in Upton and that he will inspire us to persevere in our praying for those things he gives us to hope for." From our church prayer guide of over 20 years ago and not so far redundant.
"All we can do is nothing worth, unless God blesses the deed;
Vainly we hope for the harvest-tide, till God gives life to the seed."
Hymns & Psalms 769

WED'DAY Taking time to think about and to ask God to challenge us to care about Christian people who suffer because, defying persecution and even threat to life, they honour Jesus as Lord.
Just one instance among many for us to think about prayerfully: The families of two pastors assassinated recently for preaching the gospel in Columbia, Sth America. They were leading a meeting when men from an illegal armed group arrived, took them away and later killed them. One of these two had a newborn baby daughter. People who faced the reality of our Covenant Service when we pray "Put me to what you will…….put me to doing, put me to suffering…."

THU'DAY Lots of little books on the bookstalls at mainline stations and elsewhere aimed at people living high pressure lives and under strain who are seeking peace and release from fears -often secret and unshared. Here is another direction they could look in; the times of the writer of these words would one could think have their fears and uncertainties just as much but different to today's.
O God from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed; Give unto thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that both our hearts may be set to obey thy commandments and also that by thee we being defended from the fear of our enemies may pass our time in rest and quietness; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord; and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of thy only Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The Second and Third Collects at Evening Prayer. Book of Common Prayer.
"He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in his care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you."
Words from Psalm 91

FRIDAY "That we shall be drawn closer together as a family as we pray for one another and for the community in which God has placed us to serve him."
"Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good."
Words from Hebrews 10
"Sweetly may we all agree, touched with loving sympathy:
Kindly for each other care; every member feel its share.
Move and actuate and guide: divers gifts to each divide;
Placed according to thy will. Let us all our work fulfil." H&P 764

SAT'DAY Concerns about the Laws relating to abortion remind that our law makers in Parliament do share in taking decisions far from trivial. Thinking about this let's remember to pray for them to have wisdom, disregard for self and independence of mind as they deal with legislation about things having moral and ethical relevance such as gambling, civil liberties, care of the sick the old and the vulnerable and the unborn infant.
"The integrity of the upright guides them." Proverbs 11 verse 3.
"O loving Lord, who art forever seeking men (and needless to say, women) of thy mind intent to do thy will….." H&P 798
We can remember that there are professing Christian members of both Houses of Parliament and that they must from time to time likely have significant conflicts of loyalties.
May God assure us that praying for them has value.

Upton Methodist Church Prayer Diary October 2008

Wed	1	Pray for all those who have recently started university. May they soon settle into their new way of life
Thur	2	Pray for Helen our minister as she settles into her new surroundings and ministers to her new people.
Fri	3	Samaritan's Purse reminds us to praise God for all the preparations that have been made during the summer period in distributing Operation Christmas Child resources and for many the opportunities there have been to present this particular campaign in churches and schools
Sat	4	We pray for strength for all the volunteers who will be working timelessly in warehouses, processing centres and driving to collect Christmas Child gift filled show boxes
Sun	5	We pray for John Wadsworth as he leads our worship this morning
Mon	6	Pray for all Christians who work alongside unbelievers, that they will maintain their Christian values and be shining lights
Tues	7	Care asks us to pray for people with disabilities, their families and carers and ask you to bless them with your strength, comfort and provision for their needs
Wed	8	Care asks to pray for women who are considering an abortion because they have been told their baby has serious problems or they feel they cannot cope with continuing their pregnancy. Ask God to lead many to contact Care Confidential or other support that will allow them to realise the implications of their choice
Thur	9	Care asks us to praise God for every Christian called to work in the medical, nursing and other health professions. And that He will help them understand how their faith applies to their training and practice at every stage of their preparations and career.
Fri	10	Care asks us to pray that governments and other agencies with responsibility for mental health care across the world will increase their commitment to support people needing help. Pray for better access to information, personalised treatment and resources be made available to mental health patients
Sat	11	Pray for all those whose lives have been torn apart because a loved one has been murdered, That God will help them pick up the pieces
Sun	12	We pray for Sandra Heap as she brings God's message to us. May we be drawn closer to God as we share communion
Mon	13	We pray for children living in foster homes, that they will have the love and security they need
Tues	14	We pray for people who run youth centres to keep teenagers off the street, to avoid a life of crime.
Wed	15	We pray for people who run homes that offer a safe haven for battered wives
Thur	16	Care asks: Pray for young people who use the internet constantly to obtain information, play games and connect with others to be careful about guarding their personal details and making unhelpful on-line contacts
Fri	17	Care asks; Pray that the serious increase of knife and gun crimes be reduced as police, social workers and probation officers work with local community and church groups to support vulnerable young people in the poorest of our cities and towns.
Sat	18	Pray for Tearfund's church partners in Ethiopia who are trying to bring help to families torn apart by the impact of Aids.
Sun	19	Pray for John Wooffindin as he leads our worship this morning. We thank God for our freedom to come to worship.
Mon	20	Pray for 200 million people in 60 countries who are denied fundamental human rights solely because of their Christian faith- grant them Your comfort
Tues	21	Pray for Tearfund as they want to secure three meals a day, forever, to make life taste better for the most marginalised people. Pray that then can achieve this vision.
Wed	22	Thank God for all we receive from Him and ask for generous hearts towards the people in the world who have so little- that we would share more of what we have.
Thur	23	Pray for those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet due to the high rises in the cost of living.
Fri	24	Pray for our emergency services and thank God for them
Sat	25	Pray for all who serve God in full-time ministry in a strange country. Ask God to help them to adjust to their new way of life.
Sun	26	Pray for Helen Harrell as she leads our All Age Worship.
Mon	27	Pray for Tearfund, World Vision and other organisations working to bring relief to all whose lives are at risk because they do not have access to basic sanitation and safe water.
Tues	28	Care asks; Pray for political leaders in the world today who are unjust, corrupt and tyrannical- harming their countries and people. Bring their power to an end and in their place raise up men and women of righteousness and integrity.
Wed	29	Pray for those who have lost their desire to attend a place of worship
Thur	30	Remember those who give their time educating, leading and being role models to all younger people. That the adults would be strong and the youngsters receptive to decent values and actions.
Fri	31	Pray for our fellowship as we learn more together of what challenges we should be undertaking to live out God's plan in our lives

Prayer Diary Upton Methodist Church September 2008

Mon	1	On this the first day of the new Methodist Church year we pray for the ministers and their families who are starting life in their new appointments. That God will bless the relationship between them and their congregations.
Tue	2	As Helen Hurrell starts her new appointment we pray that God will bless and keep her during her ministry among us.
Wed	3	We pray for our Local Preachers and Worship Leaders as they meet.
Thu	4	We pray for those with afflicted by substance addiction, both alcohol and drugs, that they will find the help they need.
Fri	5	We pray for our world that we will use its resources wisely and remember that we are only in charge of it for a short time. Ever mindful of our responsibilities to future generations.
Sat	6	We pray for those who sponsor children in the poor countries throughout the world, that their involvement in the children's life will continue and that others will become child sponsors.
Sun	7	We pray the blessing of the Holy Spirit on Martin Walmsley as he leads us in this morning's worship.
Mon	8	As our children return to school or start school for the first time we pray for those who teach and care for them, that they will be taught in an environment conducive to good learning and safety.
Tue	9	We pray for those children, here and throughout the world who are the victims of abuse both from in and outside the family environment.
Wed	10	We pray for the members and supporters of the church guild.
Thu	11	We pray for those who live in residential care and for the staff who care for them.
Fri	12	We pray for those around us and those with whom we come into contact day by day, that God's love will shine from us as a beacon to them in the way that we live our lives.
Sat	13	We pray for a successful Leprosy Mission Festival at Ropewalk and for the Autumn Synod which meets today at Ashville College.
Sun	14	We pray for Rex Owen, that the Holy Spirit will inspire him as he leads today's worship.

Mon	15	We pray for members of our armed forces as they are stationed in various places that they will carry out their duties judiciously and fairly.
Tue	16	We pray for the victims of domestic abuse that the victims will find the help they need and the perpetrators will realise the evil of their actions.
Wed	17	We pray for the uniformed organisations that meet at our churches, for their leaders that they will show the children true Christian values.
Thu	18	We pray for the Circuit Meeting which meets tonight in Altofts.
Fri	19	We pray for the children and young people within our church, that their numbers will grow and their strength of faith will mature. We also pray for those who teach and guide them
Sat	20	We pray for the people of Georgia and southern Russia that the trouble which has flared up lately we be solved and that both sides will draw back from brinkmanship.
Sun	21	We pray for Helen Harrell as she leads our morning worship for the first time, that the Holy Spirit will fill his heart as he brings us God's message.
Mon	22	We pray for those suffering the pain of bereavement, may the Holy Spirit be the light that brings them through this dark time.
Tue	23	We pray for friends and family wherever they may be.
Wed	24	We pray for voluntary organisations throughout the world that God will bless their work.
Thu	25	We pray for those who govern us both locally and nationally that they will do so with honesty and integrity, considering the needs of everyone and not just groups with whom they have an interest.
Fri	26	As winter approaches, we pray for those who are homeless. We think also of the organisations that care for them.
Sat	27	We pray for growth in our church family here in Upton, and the church in the wider circuit and the world beyond.
Sun	28	On this our Harvest Festival we thank God for all the gifts he has given us and pray his blessing on Major Ken Lawson as he leads us in worship.
Mon	29	We pray for the work of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Ateen and Al-Anon, which gives hope to sufferers of alcoholism and a haven of love and support to their families.
Tue	30	We pray for tolerance between different faiths; that the people of this world live together in peace and harmony respecting and accepting each other's beliefs.

UPTON METHODIST CHURCH PRAYER DIARY AUGUST 2008

SUNDAY That we might remember that the early Christians "devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" Acts chapter 2 verse 42 and take them as our example.

Come, divine interpreter, bring us eyes thy book to read,
Ears the mystic words to hear, words which did from thee proceed,
Words that endless bliss impart, kept in an obedient heart.

All who read, or hear, are blessed, if they plain commands we do;
Of thy kingdom here possessed, thee we shall in glory view-
When thou com'st on earth to abide, reign triumphant at thy side.
Hymns & Psalms 468 Charles Wesley 1707-88

Grant, O Lord, that through our worship this day we may be awakened to the wonder of thy love for us; that familiar words may shine with new meaning and that the habit of worship may be cleansed of all stale formality and mere ceremonial observance……..
From A Private House of Prayer Leslie D Weatherhead

MONDAY Remembering those in authority and public administration, believing in the possibility of their being open to the prompting of God's Spirit as they exercise their authority and as people pray for them.

….Zacchaeus (he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy) stood up and said to the Lord, " Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount". Luke chapter 19 verse 8

Rulers of earth, give ear! Should you not justice know?
Will God your pleading hear.
While crime and cruelty grow?
Do justly; Love mercy, Walk humbly with your God.
Hymns & Psalms 414 Albert F Bayly 1901-1984

TUESDAY Remembering all who exercise leadership in Christ's Church especially in these, for all kinds of reasons, more challenging times and praying that the right people are appointed to the right jobs.

So the apostles gathered all the disciples together and said, "it would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word". Acts chapter 6 verses 2 to 4

This ministry will make great demands on you: the power to fulfil it is the gift of God alone.
From the Methodist Service Book - words to those called to the ordained ministry.

O loving Lord who art for ever seeking
those of thy mind intent to do thy will,
Strong in thy strength, thy power and grace bespeaking,
faithful to thee, through good report and ill.
Hymns & Psalms 798 William Vaughan Jenkins 1868-1920

WEDNESDAY About the effect we have on those around us - whoever they are!

O God our father, who hast bidden us to live in fellowship with one another, keep us from everything which would make us difficult to live with today……………. Grant unto us all through this day something of the grace and beauty which shone upon our blessed Lord.
Hear this our prayer for thy love's sake. Amen.
From The Plain Man's Book of Prayers William Barclay

"……..set an example for the believers, in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity".
Paul's good advice in his first letter to Timothy chapter 4 verse 12

Me if thy grace vouchsafe to use, meanest of all thy creatures, me,
The deed, the time, the manner choose; let all my fruit be found of thee;
Let all my works in thee be wrought, by thee to full perfection brought.
Hymns & Psalms 788 Charles Wesley

THURSDAY For the mission of the church in every place and among all people, not least in Upton and the circuit we belong to.

After this the Lord appointed seventy two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field". Luke chapter 10 verses 1 and 2

O thou that dwellest within me, set there thine own will to seek and to save:
as thou didst burn with compassion for the multitudes who hungered, so inflame me;
bid me go forth with the Bread of Life, east and west and north and south,
by thy might, in thy love, to thy glory.
"Who Will Go For Us" from Eric Milner-White's My God My Glory

I would the precious time redeem, and longer live for this alone:
To spend and to be spent for them who have not yet my Saviour known;
Fully on these my mission prove, and only breathe to breathe thy love.
Hymns & Psalms 767 Charles Wesley

FRIDAY Remembering the now routine daily news headlines about the ills of our world which are to prompt our praying for those who suffer these things and for those individuals and agencies who work to bring about peace, justice and fair shares for all. And, as well as our prayers, to think about what we might do.

"What is written in the Law", Jesus replied, "how do you read it?" He answered: "Love the Lord your God……………" and, "Love your neighbour as yourself." "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live." But the expert in the law wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbour?"
Luke chapter 10 verses 26 to 29

Let us pray for all the nations and peoples of the world; for all who serve the common good.
From The Methodist Service Book

Millions believe the law of life is cunning within a world of cruelty and greed;
How can they know God's charity and justice if helping hands have never reached their need?
The law of Christ alone can make us free,
And love is the fulfilling of the law.
Hymns & Psalms 407 J P McAuley 1917-76

SATURDAY Our prayers are asked for all in sorrow, need, anxiety or sickness;
for the neglected, the persecuted and the lonely.
And for those in any need or trouble
From The Methodist Service Book

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Prayer Diary Upton Methodist Church July 2008

Tue	1	As we start a new month pray that the Holy Spirit will renew, repair and re-invigorate our faith each and every day.
Wed	2	Pray for all who are attending the Ministerial Session of the Methodist Church Conference which opens today in Scarborough
Thu	3	Pray for the Revd. Stephen Poxon, President-elect and David Walton Vice President elect as they prepare to assume office for the next 12 months
Fri	4	Pray for the widows and widowers and families of ministers who have died in the past 12 months as they attend a Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance at Conference.
Sat	5	Pray for those attending this morning's Diaconal Session and the Representative Session of the Conference, which starts this afternoon, that the debate will be fair and take place in Christian love and that all decisions made will be to and for the glory of God.
Sun	6	Pray God's blessing of his Holy Spirit on Iris as she brings us his word whilst leading us in worship this morning. Pray for all the Ordinands as they prepare for their Reception into Full Connexion this morning and Ordination at services this afternoon.
Mon	7	Pray, as today the Methodist Council brings before Conference the first of its reports by the 'Fresh Ways Working Group' on developing fresh ways of being church. Reports will go to the next 6 conferences.
Tue	8	Pray for the work of Methodist Homes for the Aged (MHA) as they present a report to Conference, today. Currently MHA tries to meet the needs of 12500 older people.
Wed	9	Pray for today's conference sessions amongst which is the future of training strategy.
Thu	10	As the Conference breaks up and representatives go to their home churches and circuits pray for the work of the Methodist Church in the next 12 months. Pray, also, for those who have new placements which were confirmed during the conference period.
Fri	11	Pray for Methodist Association of Youth Clubs as they meet for this years Breakout at Cliff college in Derbyshire
Sat	12	Pray for the young people of our church family and for those who care for and teach them each Sunday.
Sun	13	Pray that the Holy Spirit will fill Sandra as she leads us in today's act of worship
Mon	14	Pray for the work of NCH, an organisation which, 'helps the most vulnerable children and young people in the UK break through injustice, deprivation and inequality, so they can achieve their full potential.'

Tue	15	Pray for the world's trouble spots, where there is war and suffering. That the leaders of these countries will seek a peaceful solution.
Wed	16	Pray for those in the village who are sick or infirm and for those who care for them.
Thu	17	Pray for ourselves remembering the importance of speaking to God on our own behalf.
Fri	18	Pray for those who govern us both nationally and locally that they will do so with honesty and integrity, considering the needs of all strands of society.
Sat	19	Pray for members of our church family as they leave for their summer holidays that they will travel with God's blessings and return refreshed.
Sun	20	Pray for Arnold this morning as he leads us in our act of worship, that the Holy Spirit will lead him.
Mon	21	Pray for the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and their leaders who meet in our church. We pray that we may look for opportunities to involve them and their families in our church life.
Tue	22	Pray for victims of domestic abuse, that the perpetrators will realise that how they live within their relationship is wrong and change their ways.
Wed	23	Pray for the Guild as they meet week by week for fellowship.
Thu	24	Pray for the work of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Ateen and Al-Anon, which gives hope to sufferers of alcoholism and a haven of love and support to their families and loved ones.
Fri	25	Pray for the homeless and those who run homeless shelters.
Sat	26	Pray for our neighbours, those around us and those with whom we come into contact day by day, that God's love will shine through to them in the way that we live our lives.
Sun	27	Pray that the Holy Spirit will inspire Jim as he leads us in this morning's act of worship
Mon	28	Pray for those who work within our local hospices. Help them to bring support and comfort to those who are terminally ill.
Tue	29	Pray for the circuit meeting as it discusses the way the circuit will look in the future
Wed	30	Pray that we will have time for prayer even when we are rushed.
Thu	31	Pray for voluntary organisations both at home and abroad, thanking God for their work.

If there is anything or anyone you would like included in the August diary, let Arnold or Nigel know or leave a note in the vestry.

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UPTON METHODIST CHURCH PRAYER DIARY FOR MAY 2008

The idea that guided my thinking for this month's diary was looking "up" (to God), looking "in" (at myself and you, yourself), looking "out" (at "our world" and our mission).

SUNDAY "O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him?" from Psalm 8

"We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen." from the Nicene Creed

"God is a name my soul adores, the almighty Three, the eternal One;

Nature and grace with all their powers confess the infinite unknown.

A glance of thine runs through the globe, rules the bright worlds and moves their frame; of light thou form'st thy dazzling robe, thy ministers are living flame.

How shall polluted mortals dare to sing thy glory or thy grace?

Beneath thy feet we lie afar, and see but shadows of thy face."

Hymns & Psalms 24 Isaac Watts

MONDAY "Blessed are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the ways of the Lord. Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!" from Psalm 119

"Almighty God, our heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and against our fellow men, in thought and word and deed, in the evil we have done and in the good we have not done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault".

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." from the Sunday Service

"Dear Master, in whose life I see all that I would but fail to be, let thy clear light for ever shine, to shame and guide this life of mine.

Though what I dream and what I do in my weak days are always two, help me oppressed by things undone, O thou, whose deeds and dreams were one!"

Hymns & Psalms 522 John Hunter

TUESDAY "May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations." from Psalm 67

"Strengthen your church to carry forward the work of Christ; that we and all who confess your name may be united in your truth, live together in your love, and reveal your glory to the world." from The Methodist Service Book page B24

"Lord thy church on earth is seeking thy renewal for above; teach us all the art of speaking with the accent of thy love. In the streets of every city where the bruised and lonely dwell, let us show the Saviour's pity, let us of his mercy tell."

Hymns and Psalms 774 Hugh Sherlock

WED'DAY "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." from Psalm 46

"I ask your prayers for all in sorrow, need, anxiety or sickness, for the neglected, the persecuted and the lonely, and for those in any need or trouble.

The Lord hears our prayer.

Thanks be to God." From The Methodist Service Book page B29

"He's got you and me brother, in his hand.

He's got you and me sister, in his hand.

He's got the whole world in his hand."

Hymns & Psalms 25 Traditional

THURSDAY "Have mercy on me O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin." from Psalm 51

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.

Hear then the word of grace:

Your sins are forgiven.

Amen. Thanks be to God." from the Methodist Service Book page B6

"Out of the depths I cry to thee, Lord God! O hear my prayer!

Incline a gracious ear to me, and bid me not despair:

If thou rememberest each misdeed, if each should have its rightful meed,

Lord who shall stand before thee?

Though great our sins and sore our wounds, and deep and dark our fall,

His helping mercy hath no bounds, his love surpasseth all:

Our trusty loving Shepherd he, who shall at last set Israel free

From all their sin and sorrow."

Hymns & Psalms 429 Martin Luther

FRIDAY "Trust in the Lord and do good. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: he will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." from Psalm 37

"You are now to be confirmed as members of a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, sent forth as Christ's servants and witnesses into the world. For all this God will strengthen you by his Holy Spirit." from the Methodist Service Book page A21

"O Breath of life, come sweeping through us, revive your church with life and power;

O Breath of life, come cleanse, renew us, and fit your church to meet this hour.

O Wind of God, come bend us break us, till humbly we confess our need;

Then in your tenderness remake us, revive, restore, for this we plead.

O Breath of love, come breath within us, renewing thought and will and heart;

Come love of Christ, afresh to win us. Revive your church in every part."

Hymns & Psalms 777 Bessie Porter Head

SATURDAY "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbour his anger for ever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love to those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." from Psalm 103

"Lord, we come to your table trusting in your mercy and not in any goodness of our own.

We are not worthy even to gather up the crumbs under your table, but it is your nature always to have mercy and on that we depend.

So feed us with the body and blood of Jesus Christ, your Son, that we may forever live in him and he in us". from the Methodist Service Book page B15

"Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not; as thou hast been thou forever wilt be………Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;………..

Hymns & Psalms 66 Thomas O Chisholm

Upton Methodist Church; Prayer Diary for April 2008

Tue	1		As a new month begins we pray for a renewal of our faith through the intervention of the Holy Spirit.
Wed	2		We pray thankfully to God that Helen Harrell has accepted the invitation to become our new minister later this year.
Thu	3		We pray that the Holy Spirit will speak to someone with regard to coming forward as a nominee for the vacant position of Church Steward.
Fri	4		We pray for the success of the 'Passion for Life' Roadshow in Sheffield, where a group of Christian politicians are meeting to discuss the proposed Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill.
Sat	5		We pray for friends and family wherever they may be.
Sun	6		We pray for Ruth Miles as she brings God's message to us this morning, may the Holy Spirit guide all her thoughts and words.
Mon	7		We pray for the local schools and nurseries that our children will be taught in a happy environment.
Tue	8		We pray for our neighbours, those around us and those with whom we come into contact day by day.
Wed	9		We pray for the people who live in the world's many trouble spots, that their leaders will work hard to attain peace.
Thu	10		We pray for those who live in residential care and for the staff who care for them.
Fri	11		We pray for the work of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Ateen and Al-Anon, which gives hope to sufferers of alcoholism and a haven of love and support to their families.
Sat	12		We pray that the Holy Spirit will fill and renew Revd. J Gichaara from Kenya who is the speaker at this evening's Mission Banquet at Central Church.
Sun	13		We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide Iris as she leads us in worship during which we celebrate the Lord's Supper, on this Vocations Sunday.
Mon	14		We pray for the success of tonight's church Annual General Meeting that the business will be concluded to the glory of God.
Tue	15	We pray for tolerance between different faiths; that the people of this world can live together in peace and harmony respecting and accepting each other's beliefs.
Wed	16	We pray that the Holy Spirit will move within our village and create a revival, that more people will join us in worship find Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.
Thu	17	We pray for those who are sick, for the medical personnel who care for them, and for home helps who make their lives more comfortable.
Fri	18	We pray for the uniformed organisations that meet at our church, for their leaders that they will show the children true Christian values.
Sat	19	We pray for members of the armed forces currently fighting and peacekeeping in some of the world's worst trouble spots, that God will keep them safe and bless them and their families.
Sun	20	We pray for Brian Ridley as he leads us in worship on this service to celebrate our church anniversary, may the Holy Spirit inspire him.
Mon	21	We pray for those with substance addiction, whether it is alcohol or drugs that they will find the help they need.
Tue	22	We pray for our leaders both local and national, that they will govern us with fairness and compassion.
Wed	23	On this the feast day of our patron saint; Saint George, we pray for our country and all the people who live within its borders. This also being the commemoration of the birth of William Shakespeare we pray for all in the literary world that they will write with moral care.
Thu	24	We pray for those suffering the pain of bereavement, that the Holy Spirit be the light to guide them through these sad times
Fri	25	We pray for all who are organising this year's Methodist Church conference as they meet for the final few times that all their preparations are coming to completion and that the event runs without problem.
Sat	26	We pray for our brothers and sisters of the Orthodox Christian Church as they prepare to celebrate Easter this weekend.
Sun	27	We pray for Rex Owen as he leads us in worship this morning, we look forward to hearing his message. We pray the Holy Spirit's blessing on him.
Mon	28	We pray for growth in our church family here in Upton, in the wider circuit and the world beyond.
Tue	29	We pray for victims of domestic abuse, that the perpetrators will realise the evil of their actions and cease.
Wed	30	We pray for the Ladies Fellowship as they meet each week in the church.

Upton Methodist Church; Prayer Diary for March 2008

Sun	2	We give thanks for our mothers and those who care for us. Remember Agnes as she leads our worship.
Mon	3	Pray for students at university and other institutions to lead balanced, healthy lives and not be drawn into any harmful activities.
Tues	4	Pray for the politicians, those in civil and diplomatic service and others involved in European institutions who have to spend a lot of time away from home. Ask God to help in their loneliness; to act with integrity and maintain strong relationships with family and friends
Wed	5	Pray for those who find the message of the cross offensive and difficult to understand. Ask God to equip and anoint all who seek to explain and demonstrate the truth and grace of the Gospel.
Thur	6	Ask God to give wisdom to those seeking to help young people addicted to drugs and other harmful substances and habits
Fri	7	Remember the many adopion and fostering agencies in the UK seeking to match children with families.
Sat	8	Pray for church leaders and others who have been entrusted with the God given responsibility to teach and preach from the Bible. Ask God to grant them His understanding and compassion as they communicate the grace of the gospel through word and deed.
Sun	9	Remember Max Bradley as he leads our service today.
Mon	10	Give thanks for the ministries of Christians in caring professions.
Tues	11	Remember the administrative staff, lab technicians, caretakers, cooks and cleaners who make an essential contribution to the life of schools and colleges.
Wed	12	Pray for the thousands of men and women whose lives have been thrown into turmoil because of abortion, miscarriage of the death of a newborn baby or older child. Pray that they will benefit from the professional support available, also finding hope and help from family, friends and others whom God sends into their lives.
Thur	13	Pray for mayors and other community leaders of cities known to us. Ask God to raise up many Christians to serve as leaders in local government, the business community, health, education, social services and other places of responsibility and influence.
Fri	14	Ask God to encourage more of us to make our views known and regularly communicate with local and national newspapers, broadcasters and others- whether it be to commend what is good, or to object.
Sat	15	Ask God the help those in authority in Strategic Health Authorities, Primary Care Trusts and Hospital trusts to distribute funding and deploy resources fairly and effectively.
Sun	16	Remember Reverend Iris as she leads our communion service and worship today.
Mon	17	Remember parents and others bringing up children, trying to make the best decisions about disciplining them
Tues	18	Remember those working to bring about change in society who serve within political parties, Trade Unions and other campaigning groups. Pray that God will bring to the public eye those who speak and act with integrity and wisdom to promote justice and defend the vulnerable.
Wed	19	Remember those who have suffered as a result of crime.
Thur	20	Pray that God would bring release to any who have become entangled in the occult, witchcraft or other dark beliefs and practices.
Fri	21	Pray for the world's 15 million registered refugees. Ask God to bring peace, security and justice where war, want and persecution have forced people to leave so that then can return to their homes.
Sat	22	Pray about the culture of political correctness, which makes it difficult to express opinions that may be deemed as offensive to certain minority groups.
Sun	23	Remember Meg Towle as she leads our worship today. We pray that Easter would become especially meaningful for all of us as we remember rebirth.
Mon	24	Thank God that continuing legislation about making buildings accessible to wheel chair users has opened up many opportunities for people with disabilities wishing to study, work, attend church and enjoy other activities.
Tues	25	Ask God to remind us to be grateful for all that we have and not always want all the other things other people have got.
Wed	26	Thank God for the work of the hospice movement here in the UK. Remember those working in them and pray for a continued spirit of peace and compassion.
Thur	27	Pray about the continuing secularisation of education and its impact upon Christian belief, practice and values. Thank God for every opportunity for local churches and other Christian groups to lead assemblies, teach RE lessons and be involved in counselling and other activities in schools.
Fri	28	Pray that childminders and others in homes and nurseries looking after young children will be able to give them consistent, loving attention and security.
Sat	29	Pray for those whose lives are ruled by a philosophy of materialism that can never satisfy their deepest yearnings for security, self worth and significance. Pray that people will increasingly turn to the Christian Faith and find true fulfilment through Christ.
Sun	30	Pray for Rev Martin Wood as he leads our service this morning. Also to remember via the evening circuit service, those elsewhere in other churches in our area.
Mon	31	Pray for victims of accidents, attacks and war trying to regain normality and be healed of psychological wounds as well as their physical injuries. Ask God to grant insight to their doctors, therapists and other practitioners.

Upton Methodist Church; Prayer Diary for February 2008

Upton Methodist Church; Prayer Diary for January 2008

Tues	1	At the beginning of a new year renew your commitment to Jesus in your life and pray that he will guide you.
Wed	2	We thank God for links made within our community during the Christmas period- pray that we might know what to do next to reach out to those around us.
Thur	3	We pray for our emergency services. The people who we rely on when we are in trouble.
Fri	4	Pray for the work of Tear fund and remember those who work for them across the world.
Sat	5	Pray that we shall have time for prayer even when we are rushed - maybe especially then.
Sun	6	We give thanks for the younger members of our church family. Remember Max Bradley as he leads our worship.
Mon	7	Remember all those young people who have exams over the next couple of weeks- we pray they will feel God's peace at this time.
Tues	8	Pray for the work of Christian Aid, particularly as it is trying to change the lives of people through practical aid and support.
Wed	9	We continue to pray for the future of the circuit and pray that the right ministers may be led to join us.
Thur	10	Pray for those who work within our local hospices. Help them to bring support and comfort to those who are terminally ill.
Fri	11	We remember all the areas around the world suffering because of war and pray that they will experience God's peace.
Sat	12	We pray for the homeless, for those in sheltered accommodation and those who will be spending the night on the streets.
Sun	13	Remember Our minister Iris as she leads our covenant service today. We pray that we all will take this opportunity to recommit ourselves to God.
Mon	14	Pray for all those who work as chaplains within the armed forces that they might know how to provide support and share Jesus in a practical way.
Tues	15	Pray for all those involved with Fair Trade- that it will make a difference to the lives of people whose efforts are being recognised and valued.
Wed	16	Pray for all those who care for a disabled child or adult- That they might have a real sense of God's love in their lives to help them with the extra pressure that this role can bring.
Thur	17	We pray for the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and their leaders who meet in our church. We pray that we may look for opportunities to involve them and their families in our church life.
Fri	18	Pray for the work of Care for the Family as they seek to promote Christian family values.

Sat	19	Pray that we might try to see our church through the eyes of any visitor so that we may have something to offer which is right for them.
Sun	20	Remember Arnold as he leads our worship today. We remember the family who bring their child for baptism today.
Mon	21	Remember all those involved with Alpha- in particular those involved in leading their training sessions.
Tues	22	Remember Christians within sport as they seek to share Jesus with those around them.
Wed	23	Pray for the work of Boys Brigade- particularly locally at Ackworth and South Kirkby. Guide the leaders as they seek to share Jesus through the movement.
Thur	24	We pray for church growth world wide, and we pray that new members will be attracted to Upton Methodist Church.
Fri	25	We thank God that there are people with new ideas and we pray that we might be receptive to at least giving new ideas a try.
Sat	26	We give thanks for all those involved in our music ministry. May they be able to use their gifts to help us all to worship more effectively.
Sun	27	Remember John Wooffindin as he leads our worship today.
Mon	28	We continue to pray for the unsettled situation in Iraq as they strive to create a workable government and bring peace to the country.
Tues	29	Remember those who have been recently bereaved- either friends known to us or people made known to us through our TV or newspaper.
Wed	30	Laughter is so important to our well being and our welfare. We pray for those who make us laugh and generally lift our spirits, may they feel the blessing of God.
Thur	31	We thank God for the work of Twelve baskets and ask that its influence may be seen particularly in schools.

If there is anything or anyone you would like including on the February diary, let Arnold, Nigel or Deb know or leave a note in the vestry.

Prayer Diary Upton Methodist Church December 2007

Sat	1	At the start of a new month we pray for renewal, day by day, through the intervention of the Holy Spirit.
Sun	2	On this Advent Sunday we pray that the Holy Spirit will inspire Arnold as he leads our worship this morning. 'Veni Immanuel'!
Mon	3	We pray for members of the three emergency services, for their skills and dedication.
Tue	4	As our Jewish friends commence their celebration of Hanukkah we pray that God will bring to their homeland 'Shalom'.
Wed	5	As the Local Preachers meet, we pray that the message they bring to us week by week will cause us all to grow our faith.
Thu	6	We pray for the people of Burma as they continue their struggle for democracy and the right to worship.
Fri	7	We pray for peace in the world's many trouble spots, that leaders in these places will walk the extra mile to discuss their differences in a selfless manner.
Sat	8	We pray for the homeless and the agencies who care for them.
Sun	9	We pray for Sandra, that the Holy Spirit will guide her as she leads us in worship and presides at the Lord's Table.
Mon	10	We pray for all the study groups within the circuit that they will grow in faith and understanding of God's word.
Tue	11	We pray for growth of our church family here in Upton and in the wider circuit and beyond.
Wed	12	We pray for all those attending today's Circuit Meeting, may all that decide bring glory to God
Thu	13	We pray for those who suffer the affliction of drug or alcohol addiction and those who offer them help.
Fri	14	We pray for our children and young people
Sat	15	We pray for members of our armed forces who will spend Christmas away from their family and loved ones, that God will keep them safe and that they will soon return home.
Sun	16	We pray for Iris and our children and young people as they lead us in this morning's worship.

Mon	17	We pray for all who work within the NHS, for their skills, talent and dedication.
Tue	18	On this the 300^th anniversary of the birth of Charles Wesley we thank God for the wonderful hymns of praise (over 9000) written by his faithful servant.
Wed	19	We pray for those who live in residential care and for the staff who care for them.
Thu	20	We pray for the work of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Ateen and Al-Anon, which gives hope to sufferers of alcoholism and a haven of love and support to their families.
Fri	21	We pray that our children will learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Sat	22	We pray for those suffering the pain of bereavement, that the Holy Spirit will be the light that guides them from their darkness.
Sun	23	We pray for Arnold as he leads us in both acts of worship today. We pray for the people of the village as we gather for the evening Carol Service.
Mon	24	We pray for all children in the world who will not receive expensive presents and who will struggle to even find enough to eat as they struggle to survive poverty.
Tue	25	As we enjoy Christmas Day we pray for those around the country who will be hungry and cold because of homelessness.
Wed	26	On this the feast of the first martyr, St Stephen, we pray for all who suffer persecution for their faith, may the Holy Spirit strengthen them.
Thu	27	We pray for all children, here and abroad who are the victims of abuse both from within and outside the family environment.
Fri	28	We pray for those who are coming to the end of a particularly bad year, that 2008 will bring hope and new blessings.
Sat	29	We pray that we will make sensible New Year Resolutions and do our utmost to keep them!!
Sun	30	We welcome and pray for Martin as he visits to lead this morning's act of worship, may the Holy Spirit lead him.
Mon	31	As we await for the coming of a new year, we pray that our faith will be renewed and revived and that Jesus will grow in all our hearts, through prayer and Bible study.

UPTON METHODIST CHURCH PRAYER DIARY NOVEMBER 2007

SUNDAY That we might welcome this and every day as a gift and an opportunity to be useful to God the giver of it.

Dear father, take this day's life into thine own keeping. Control all my thoughts and feelings. Direct all my energies. Instruct my mind. Sustain my will. Take my hands and make them skilful to serve thee. Take my feet and make them swift to do thy bidding. Take my eyes and keep them fixed upon thine everlasting beauty. Take my mouth and make it eloquent in testimony to thy love. Make this day a day of obedience, a day of spiritual joy and peace. Make what I do this day a little part of the work of the Kingdom of my Lord Christ, in whose name these my prayers are said. Amen

From A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie sometime Professor of Divinity Edinburgh University

Awake my soul and with the sun thy daily stage of duty run;

Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise to pay thy morning sacrifice

Redeem thy misspent moments past, and live this day as if thy last;

Improve thy talent with due care; for the great day thyself prepare.

Hymns & Psalms 632 Thomas Ken 1637 - 1711

MONDAY For a fair share for all in God's provision.

Worldwide, fair trade sales totalled $2.6 billion in 2006 according to the International Fair Trade Association. Seems a lot, a matter for rejoicing.

Of $3.6 trillion of all goods traded globally, fair trade accounts for only 0.01%. A long way still to go.

The Fair Trade stall in our church is a time to time reminder to us, and shops which now stock fair trade goods are a challenge to us and a means to inform our praying.

"Across the world, across the street, the victims of injustice cry for shelter and for bread to eat , and never live until they die."

Hymns & Psalms 804 A reminder that Fair Trade enables people to earn their bread to eat and to live with dignity and not as beggars.

"All we can do is nothing worth, unless God blesses the deed;

Vainly we hope for the harvest-tide, till God gives life to the seed."

Hymns & Psalms 769

WED'DAY Taking time to think about and to ask God to challenge us to care about Christian people who suffer because, defying persecution and even threat to life, they honour Jesus as Lord.

Just one instance among many for us to think about prayerfully: The families of two pastors assassinated recently for preaching the gospel in Columbia, Sth America. They were leading a meeting when men from an illegal armed group arrived, took them away and later killed them. One of these two had a newborn baby daughter. People who faced the reality of our Covenant Service when we pray "Put me to what you will…….put me to doing, put me to suffering…."

O God from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed; Give unto thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that both our hearts may be set to obey thy commandments and also that by thee we being defended from the fear of our enemies may pass our time in rest and quietness; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord; and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of thy only Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

The Second and Third Collects at Evening Prayer. Book of Common Prayer.

"He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in his care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you."

Words from Psalm 91

FRIDAY "That we shall be drawn closer together as a family as we pray for one another and for the community in which God has placed us to serve him."

"Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good."

Words from Hebrews 10

"Sweetly may we all agree, touched with loving sympathy:

Kindly for each other care; every member feel its share.

Move and actuate and guide: divers gifts to each divide;

Placed according to thy will. Let us all our work fulfil." H&P 764

SAT'DAY Current concerns about the Laws relating to abortion remind that our law makers in Parliament do share in taking decisions far from trivial. Thinking about this let's remember to pray for them to have wisdom, disregard for self and independence of mind as they deal with legislation about things having moral and ethical relevance such as gambling, civil liberties, care of the sick the old and the vulnerable and the unborn infant.

"The integrity of the upright guides them." Proverbs 11 verse 3.

"O loving Lord, who art forever seeking men (and needless to say, women) of thy mind intent to do thy will….." H&P 798

We can remember that there are professing Christian members of both Houses of Parliament and that they must from time to time likely have significant conflicts of loyalties.

May God assure us that praying for them has value.

Prayer Diary - October

Mon	1	Pray for Christian broadcasters as they seek to entertain and interest the general public whilst also communicating the good news of Jesus.
Tue	2	Remember farmers and those who tend crops and look after animals to feed us. As we harvest plenty, remember that others in the world have less to eat.
Wed	3	Pray for the CREST meeting as it organises events and activities for the circuit's churches, with an especial concern for all younger people.
Thur	4	Remember Churches Together in this area
Fri	5	Pray for our fellowship and its pastoral links and care.
Sat	6	Remember Normanton church as it is formally opened today following refurbishment. Pray this activity and publicity might remind those in the locality of the Christian people there.
Sun	7	Our service this morning is Own Arrangement where we share together something of songs which have meaning to us.
Mon	8	Remember our community leaders and parish councillors as they seek to help provide a local community in which we live.
Tue	9	Pray for patience in all things. Ask God to help you to control your anger.
Wed	10	Mercy Ships has just retired the ship 'Anastasis' and commissioned the 'African Mercy' which doubles its medical capacity for the needy areas of the world. Remember those who give sacrificially to help provide the care we sometimes in this country take for granted.
Thur	11	Pray for the children orphaned by Aids and those who support them.
Fri	12	Give thanks for the many opportunities we have to contribute to our national life
Sat	13	Pray for those who have fallen behind in their daily walk with God. Restore to them the joy of their salvation together with a newness and sense of purpose in their faith.
Sun	14	Kathryn is baptised today. A formal declaration of faith in Jesus as saviour. Remember God.com meeting tonight.
Mon	15	Pray that we shall have time for prayer even when we are rushed - maybe especially then.
Tue	16	Pray for our church council as it meets to conduct formal business concerning the organisation and running of our fellowship.

Wed	17	Pray for those working in healthcare.
Thur	18	Give thanks for many Christians working in the legal profession. Pray for groups like the Lawyer's Christian Fellowship and the Association of Christian Law Firms.
Fri	19	Pray to remind all the prisoners who are Christians that Jesus has forgiven them and that they have a new life with Him by their side. Remember those running Alpha courses in prison.
Sat	20	Pray for British Youth for Christ and its work with youth clubs. Remember those who have many distractions and peer pressures. Those in contact with drugs.
Sun	21	Prayer for Arnold as he leads worship today.
Mon	22	Pray for Ropewalk's Holiday club as it commences its week today and invites younger people (some from outside the church) to meet together for fun and a message.
Tues	23	Pray for World leaders to make the world a more peaceful and safer place to be
Wed	24	Care for the Family continues to organise support activities for the family. Pray that the value of families would not be forgotten.
Thur	25	Pray for Open Doors and its support for persecuted Christians world-wide.
Fri	26	Remember those without permanent homes- living rough and being cold all night.
Sat	27	Ask God to comfort and strengthen parents, particularly fathers, who are estranged from their children.
Sun	28	Pray for Val Brook as she ministers to us this morning
Mon	29	Mission Aviation Fellowship operates many small planes in remote regions providing essential transport- often for medical reasons. Pray that each worker would also be able to declare their love for Jesus in all they do.
Tues	30	Pray for our circuit leadership team as they meet tonight.

Prayer Diary - September

Saturday 1^st	Pray for Methodist ministers beginning new appointments.
Sunday 2^nd	Pray for those involved in the 'own arrangement' service today.
Monday 3^rd	As a new school year begins pray for children and young people.
Tuesday 4^th	During 'National Organic Fortnight' pray that we may use our scarce resources wisely.
Wednesday 5^th	Pray for all those involved in educating and supporting our children and young people.
Thursday 6^th	As the 'Lost for Words' course running at Central begins pray for those both running and attending the course.
Friday 7^th	For the work of JMA
Saturday 8^th	International Literacy Day - pray for the millions who are denied access to any form of education.
Sunday 9^th	Pray for Ruth Miles as she leads our service today.
Monday 10^th	For all volunteers - providing activities for young and old
Tuesday 11^th	Pray for marine experts and conservationists working in coastal and inland waters.
Wednesday 12^th	For those affected by extremes of weather
Thursday 13^th	Pray for our armed forces and their families
Friday 14^th	For all carers
Saturday 15^th	Pray for all those in authority that they may use their position to do good.
Sunday 16^th	Pray for Doreen Sweeting and Sam Aldridge as they lead our service today.
Monday 17^th	When the day doesn't go as planned pray: Dear God, The little plans I tried to carry through have failed. I will not sorrow. I'll pause a little while, Dear God, and try, again, tomorrow.
Tuesday 18^th	For those working with disadvantaged people
Wednesday 19^th	Pray for those working in the many war-torn areas of the world
Thursday 20^th	Pray that we may be moved to help tackle the bigger issues of today's world - little by little.
Friday 21^st	On this International Day of Peace pray that God's peace may come to all.
Saturday 22^nd	On the first day of autumn - pray that all may appreciate the glory of God's creation.
Sunday 23^rd	Pray for Iris as she leads our service today.
Monday 24^th	Pray for those involved in charity work, aiming to make the lives of people better.
Tuesday 25^th	Pray for bible study groups enabling people to grow in faith
Wednesday 26^th	For friends near and far
Thursday 27^th	Pray for the White Rose Initiative
Friday 28^th	Pray for hospital visitors
Saturday 29^th	As we look forward to our service tomorrow, pray for all those who 'harvest'.
Sunday 30^th	Pray for the Rev G Fisher leading our harvest festival today.

pjr31/08/2007

Prayer Diary For August 2007
UPTON METHODIST CHURCH PRAYER DIARY

SUNDAY: That our worship, whatever in its variety it seems to be, will always be a means to deepen and strengthen our Christian faith.
"….we assemble and meet together to humbly acknowledge our sins before God, to render thanks for the great benefits that we have received at his hands, to set forth his most worthy praise, to hear his most holy Word and to ask those things which are requisite and necessary as well for the body as the soul." Book of Common Prayer

"This day give me grace to lift up my soul,
to pray without ceasing. to hear thy voice, speak thy word, do thy will. seek thy forgiveness." From My God My Glory by E. M-W.

MONDAY: For acceptance of the fact that the Christian life is no soft option, and that we shall not be discouraged by our failures in following Jesus, but always rely on God's perfect understanding and ever present help.

"O God, I started out today with all kinds of high hopes and resolutions, but it has just been another of those days. I have been just as easily irritated and annoyed as ever I was. I have been just as easily worried and flustered and upset as ever I was. I have been just as impatient with people, just as quick in temper and tongue. I have been no kinder, no more considerate, no more like Jesus.

O God, it would be easy to make excuses, to blame others, to say it was not all my fault. But I don't want to say that because it would not really be true. All I want to say is; forgive me, help me not to be discouraged and not to give up the battle for goodness, and help me to do better tomorrow. "

More Prayers for The Plain Man Wm Barclay

TUESDAY: For leaders everywhere; international and national, in politics, commerce and industry, in education and health services and in the media. For them to be straight and honest in purpose and action and have a concern to serve those whom they were elected or appointed to lead; for them to be careless for their own interests and for them to own that there is one whose authority is higher and reaches further than theirs.

Jesus said "You call me teacher and Lord, and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example…"

John chapter 13

O God, grant that in all the public work which has been given to me to do my only motive may be to serve my fellow-men and my only master may be my conscience.

A prayer for those who serve the community from MPFTPM Wm Barclay

Let us pray that men and women will be found who would pray such a pray WEDNESDAY: Let us pray Giving thanks for what the Bible tells us about God and ourselves in relation to him; that we may respect its authority, learn from its teaching, rely on its guidance and lean on its comfort

John Wesley was a homo unius libri - a man of one book, the Bible. He wrote: "I am a creature of a day, passing through life as an arrow through the air. I am a spirit from God returning to God. God himself condescends to teach me the way. He hath written it down in a Book. Oh, give me that Book! At any price give me the Book of God.

I have it. Here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be homo unius libri. Here then I am far from the busy ways of men. I sit down alone. Only God is here. In His presence I open, I read His Book. THURSDAY: Let us pray For our church here in Upton, for its different fellowships and activities, for its leaders and those with special responsibilities, for the wider community of our village and opportunities to engage with it, for the mission which God undoubtedly has for our church, that we may apprehend and fulfil it.

Christ from whom all blessings flow, perfecting thy saints below,
Hear us who thy nature share, who thy mystic body are.
Join us in one spirit join, let us all receive of thine;
Still for more on thee we call, thou who fillest all in all.
Move and actuate, and guide: divers gifts to each divide:
Placed according to thy will, Let us all our work fu Methodist Hymn Book 720 FRIDAY:Let us pray Remembering the fragility of the world we inhabit and which sustains all life. For all who strive to create awareness of damage being caused. That we, in the detail of our daily living, our shopping and using, may not fail in our personal stewardship of God's creation.

The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and to take care of it." Genesis chapter 2

From The Daily Telegraph 24 July 2007

Earlier this month, it was revealed that the government (of China) was trying to stop the World Bank publishing details of the number of deaths caused by water and air pollution in China every year.

Vast clouds of dusty industrial smog filled with carbon, sulphates and nitrates are drifting across the Pacific and gathering above cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco

SATURDAY: For all preachers; that they may be sure of their calling to be ministers of God's word, careful in preparing the message and, in delivering it, open to the help of the Holy For our preacher appointed for tomorrow that she/he may be conscious that people here are praying for God's blessing on her/his ministry to us.

For our worship leaders and music makers, for their guiding and inspiration "For my part in the worship of my church tomorrow and that I may look forward to it believing that God my Father wants to do good to me through it.

Remember all those involved with Alpha- in particular those involved in leading their training sessions.