Organizers seeking more volunteers for continuing prayer
As Seventh-day Adventists from Argentina to Zambia pray for divine guidance leading up to next month's General Conference Session, two employees from the denomination's world headquarters are offering a platform for a coordinated prayer effort.
Senior accountant Stanley Ponniah and software developer Ean Nugent created the website 50daysofprayerforgc.info to organize a continued sequence of prayer sessions. Members around the world can sign up to pray during half- or one-hour time slots.
The effort began May 4 and continues for 50 days until Session's June 23 start date. Held every five years, Session is the church's largest spiritual gathering and business meeting, which includes election of leaders and possible changes to the denomination's Constitution and Church Manual.
"This is one of the most important events in our church. At every important turn of events, Jesus prayed," Ponniah said. "If Jesus did it, I think it's important for the church to do it also."
The website offers prayer requests for the 10-day international gathering, including smooth leadership transition, increased unity, travel safety and healthy Christian debate.
"Sometimes people want to know what specifically to pray for. I prayed about it and the needs came up," Nugent said.
So far, signups have been fewer than those needed to fill 50 days, or 1,200 hours. But many have signed up for multiple time slots and several administrators are supporting the initiative. Associate Secretary Homer Trecartin has committed to praying for Session on June 4, while Vice President Pardon Mwansa prayed for the Session on May 8.
Already, members around the world are praying for the Session in different ways.
In Southeast Asia, church leaders report that people are praying for God's guidance in the choice of leaders who can address the growing religious intolerance within the region and around the world.
Jonathan Catolico, Communication director for the church's Southern Asia-Pacific region, said members there are also praying for peace, understanding, and consideration as delegates discuss issues during business meetings, as well God's direction in selecting leadership who can "respond to the challenges of a postmodern society."
In East-Central Africa, Communication director Steven Bina said members in that region are praying over issues that could affect church unity.
Despite challenges, Bina hoped all members would pray for courage similar to that of previous generations.
"Let the faith of our fathers remain in us as members of this church," he said.