A United Methodist Pastor's Theological Reflections

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (nikos) through our Lord Jesus Christ." - I Corinthians 15:57


Monday, May 16, 2016

Pastoral Prayer (May 15/Pentecost Sunday) - Athens First UMC

[We received four confirmands into the membership of our church yesterday which was Pentecost Sunday. These four young people have met over the past several months to explore what it means to claim the name of Christ. Our church is blessed by their faith perspective and enthusiasm in serving the Lord.]


Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on each person here today. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on our confirmands who will be received into full membership this morning. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on our Stephen Ministers who offer one to one peer support for those who are facing transitions in their lives. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on our Sunday School teachers, our ushers, our musicians, our Leadership Board, our gardeners, our staff members, and all who seek to live out their desire to be your disciples through this particular church.

Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on our denomination’s General Conference as they continue to meet and deliberate over church policies in Portland, Oregon. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on our city’s Mayor, our city council, our city and county police and first responders, school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and support staff.

Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on those who are facing medical challenges, financial difficulties, relational strains, grief and heartache, and loneliness. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on the LGBT community and any one who may not always feel welcomed and included in the life of the church. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on the political leaders of our nation that they would seek justice and freedom for all people.

Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us, fall afresh on us, fall afresh on us on this Day of Pentecost, even as we pray the words that Jesus taught us to say together…


“Our Father, who art in heaven…”

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