PRAYER GUIDE
2009
Key Dates for your diary The Baptist Assembly 1-4 May 2009, Bournemouth: ‘Who do we think we are?’ www.baptistassembly.org.uk Main speakers: Kingsley Appiagyei, Lauran Bethell, Neville Callam, Jonathan Edwards and Pat Took. Leading Edge 10-16 August 2009, Warwick: ‘Without Walls.’ www.baptist. org.uk/leadingedge Main speakers: Ian and Ruth Coffey, Fran Beckett and Mark Greene. Webwatch Would you like to keep in touch with resources and news being updated on the BUGB website? Want to know about special events (eg Coffee Shop Facilitation Days), new mission resources or the latest technical/ governance guidelines from the Baptist Union Corporation? If so, email bugbwebwatch@baptist.org.uk to be added to the Webwatch distribution list. E-News Sweep Would you like to sign up for the popular ‘E-News Sweep’? This daily email (weekdays) gives you fresh links to stories relating to the church in the news helping you to keep up to date with issues and sometimes more unusual stories! Go to www.baptist.org. uk/news.html to sign up. Also remember that you can now get The Baptist Times online at http://www.baptisttimes.co.uk
Jonathan Edwards - BUGB General Secretary AN UNCHANGING COMMITMENT TO PRAYER Dear Friends, The first English Baptist church was established in 1609. The fires of persecution were raging in this country and so it was in Amsterdam that the first church was formed. The church would have been profoundly different from a modern Baptist church but there is no doubt that we are united in our common commitment to prayer. Those early Baptists were passionately committed to the belief that every single Christian had the right of personal access to God in prayer. Four hundred years later we need to be reminded of the crucial importance of prayer. Even today there are many people in our world who live in fear because of persecution from the authorities. Indeed, the past century has seen more Christian martyrs than all the rest of Christian history put together. As we give thanks for our Baptist forefathers we need to pray for those today who are willing to put their life on the line because of their Christian commitment. This prayer guide is enormously important because it says something about who we are as a Baptist family. First it affirms our belief in a God who answers prayer. But it also affirms our belief that God has given us responsibilities for one another. As we pray for one another we show our love for one another in the clearest possible way. May God bless us in 2009 as we express our commitment to him and to one another in prayer. Yours in Christ,
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
How to use the Baptist Union Prayer Diary 2009
Weekly prayer focus: Every week there is a different aspect of Baptist Union life to pray for. A church a day: On the diary listings for each week there is a Baptist Union church listed each day for you to pray for. We have provided church website links where applicable if you want to find out more about them online. Events: Also on the diary listings are Baptist Union and ecumenical meetings and events, as well as notable dates for your information and to pray for. A comprehensive list is available at www.baptist.org.uk/prayer Associations: Where regional associations are mentioned in the Guide, the ‘Baptist Association’ has been omitted from their title ie South Eastern Baptist Association is ‘South Eastern’, South West Baptist Association is ‘South West’ etc. Prayer Resources Online This year your Baptist Union Prayer Guide is just one of a range of prayer resources available for your church. Fresh stories and updates will be available on the BUGB website at www.baptist.org.uk/prayer. To remind you to check we have included this link on each new monthly prayer page. Thanks Special thanks to the Revd Sue Thompson from Sandbach Baptist Church, Cheshire for writing the prayers at the start of each month.
PRAYER GUIDE
2009
January Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 18-25 January What a journey we are on, Lord, and what a mixture of travelling companions!! some worship in noise and dancing, some in silence, some preach for an hour, some for two minutes, some have coffee after the service, some leave in silence and thought. Some of us kneel, some of us stand, some of us bow and genuflect, some have candles, flowers, a Bible, a cross, bread and wine on the table. But all of us are linked by worshiping you, following you, centring our lives on you. And you look on us, in all our variety, and you love us all. Thank you Amen www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
28 December 2008 - 03 January 2009
week 01
www.southwalesbaptistassociation.org.uk
sun
28
mon
29
tues
30
wed
31
thur
01
fri
02
Melton Road, Nottinghamshire
sat
South Wales Baptist Association How can we best become involved in God’s mission in the world? It’s a constant question for us all and one that the South Wales Baptist Association is addressing through a series of road shows, ‘Beyond our Imagining’ in 2009. The road shows will seek to grapple with the need for local churches to remain faithful to the missionary God we serve and to meaningfully engage with the cultural communities in which they are set. These road shows are specifically designed for leadership teams (deacons, elders, home group leaders) who can continue to develop and implement what is learned, and potentially team up with other churches in their shared local mission. Pray for these road shows, that they will lead to exciting mission opportunities in South Wales Baptist churches.
03
Bethal, Gwynedd
New Year’s Day
Pear Tree Road, Derbyshire
York Street, West Glamorgan
Putson, Herefordshire
Presteigne, Powys
Hamsterley, Tyne & Wear
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
04 - 10 January 2009
week 02
sun
04
mon
05
tues
06
wed
07
thur
08
fri
09
Ambleside, Cumbria www.amblesidebaptistchurch.co.uk
sat
Winton Baptist Church, Eccles (North Western) Pray for Winton Baptist as they assess all areas of what they do, including whether to have a full-time minister and how to have a greater community outreach. The church moved out of its building four years ago and is currently meeting in a local community centre. Through their schools work, the church is able to reach 1000’s of children, please pray for these opportunities. Eccles is part of the City of Salford which is set for major development due to the proposed move of some BBC production from London. Pray for the church as it decides on the way forward with regards to premises and location. Pray too for their relationship with local churches as they respond to the changes happening in Salford.
10
Amesbury, Wiltshire www.amesburybaptistcentre.co.uk
Epiphany
Quaystone, Isle of Dogs quaystone.org Gospel Mission, Strood strood.2day.ws Ogden, Greater Manchester web.ukonline.co.uk/phil.m22 Ainon, Neath www.ainon.org.uk Faith & Unity Executive
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Albany Road, Cardiff www.albanyroadbaptist.org.uk
11 - 17 January 2009
week 03
www.baptist-heartofengland.org
sun
11
mon
12
tues
13
wed
14
thur
15
fri
16
sat
Heart of England Baptist Association An exciting partnership between the Heart of England Baptist Association and BMS World Mission will see the Association Office move in early 2009 to the International Mission Centre in Selly Oak. It is hoped the move will strengthen existing links and generate new initiatives as HEBA and BMS work together in both local and global mission. There will be much reorganisation of office functions and the integration of new staff within the Team. Please pray for the present and new staff as they deal with the challenges associated with relocation and for the exciting new opportunities made possible in the new location. Pray for the Regional Ministers as they continue to come alongside the churches of the Association to encourage and support them in their mission.
17
Ashtead, Surrey www.ashteadbaptist.org.uk/welcome.htm Mainstream Conference
Attleborough, Nuneaton www.attleboroughbaptist.org.uk
Mainstream Conference
Forest Gate Baptist Church, Blackpool www.baptist-blackpool.org.uk
Mainstream Conference
Barnsley, South Yorkshire www.barnsley-baptist-chapel.faithweb.com
Ministerial Recognition Committee
Barnwell, Cambridge www.barnwellbaptistchurch.org.uk Basingstoke, Hampshire www.basingstokebaptist.org.uk
Fresh Horizons Tour - Cardiff
Beechen Grove, Watford www.bgbaptist.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
18 - 24 January 2009
week 04
www.baptisthouse.org.uk
sun
18
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Bethel, Macclesfield www.bethelmacclesfield.org.uk
mon
19
Nationl Settlement Team Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire www.bidfordbaptistchurch.org.uk
tues
20
Nationl Settlement Team Team Leaders Meeting Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Bishopdown, Salisbury www.bishopdownbaptistchurch.org.uk
wed
21
Team Leaders Meeting Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Blackley, Elland www.blackleychurch.org.uk
thur
22
Mission Executive Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Bloomsbury Central, London www.bloomsbury.org.uk
fri
23
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Bluntisham, Cambridgeshire www.bluntishambaptist.org
sat
Baptist House Baptist House in Didcot, Oxfordshire is home to the BUGB’s National Resource, BMS World Mission, the Baptist Times and The Girls’ Brigade (England and Wales). The building is used regularly by BUGB committees and local outside organisations for meetings. A small team of Baptist House staff provide a range of services including reception, postal services, and the maintenance of the building. Pray for Jon, Cath, Stella, Sarah, Martin, and the cleaning staff in their important role of keeping Baptist House running. Pray that they will be able to meet the needs of all their customers and that more outside organisations will use their services despite the financial downturn. Pray for Mel and her restaurant team as they produce meals every weekday for people in the house.
24
Fresh Horizons Tour - Gateshead Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Borstal, Rochester www.borstalbaptistchurch.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
25 - 31 January 2009
week 05
www.scba.org.uk Southern Counties Baptist Association (SCBA) One major area of prayer for 2009 is the appointment of a new regional minister to replace Kathryn Morgan, now Mission Advisor at BUGB; give thanks to the Lord for her ministry, and pray for guidance to the right person. Pray for SCBA as they consider how they can be an Association with ‘Impact’. This will involve assessment of how their clusters function, how the Association can provide intentional Baptist input, and how the theme of ‘Encouraging Missionary Disciples‘ is to be developed. The availability of Mission Consultancy is valuable for churches: pray for SCBA consultants as they help fellowships to see their own mission potential. Youth ministers and workers are vital: pray for SCBA as it supports them in enabling young people to become missionary disciples in their generation.
sun mon
26
tues
27
wed
28
Easthampstead, Bracknell www.ebc-bracknell.org
thur
29
Sandhurst, Berkshire www.sandhurstbaptistchurch.org.uk
fri
30
Wokingham, Berkshire www.wokinghambaptist.org.uk/cm
sat
Homelessness Sunday Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
25
31
Bromham, Bedfordshire www.bromham.org King’s, Stotfold www.kingsbaptist.org.uk
Holocaust Memorial Day
Poverty and Homelessness Week
Bunyan Meeting Free, Bedford
Anderson, Reading
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
February Lent A difficult time of year, Lord, - drizzly, sleety, depressing. We long for sunshine and warmth. It’s a time of hardship for our souls too - going with you into the wilderness to find purpose, meaning, and hope . Lord, may we this Lent, journey deeply and creatively into the wilderness of our lives. Then may we at Easter discover a new dawn, a new birth, a new rising of hope and joy. Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
01 - 07 February 2009
week 06
www.centralba.org.uk
sun
01
mon
02
tues
03
wed
04
thur
05
fri
06
sat
Central Baptist Association (CBA) Please pray for the CBA as it develops a ‘Women in Leadership’ network to encourage and support women involved in various kinds of ministries in Baptist churches. Churches in CBA were involved in Hope ‘08 events and Back to Church Sunday. It is hoped that this year will give opportunity to build on these initiatives. In the early part of 2009 regional ministers will lead sessions on helping churches to manage conflict, entitled “When Christians Disagree”. Pray for a good reception for discussion on this important area of discipleship. The difficulties affecting the housing market have adversely impacted many new build developments within Central’s borders. Please pray for churches and individuals whose plans have been affected by the uncertain financial environment.
07
Southcourt, Aylesbury www.southcourtbaptist.org.uk Ministers’ Conference - London
Edward Road, Balsall Heath www.erbc.org.uk/erbc/default.cfm
Incarnate Houseparty Ministers’ Conference - London
Olney, Buckinghamshire www.olneybaptist.org.uk
Incarnate Houseparty Ministers’ Conference - London
Gold Hill, Chalfont St Peter www.goldhill.org
Incarnate Houseparty Ministry Executive
Little Stoke, Bristol
Langley Free, Slough
National Marriage Week
Chenies, Buckinghamshire
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
08 - 14 February 2009
week 07
www.baptist.org.uk
sun
08
Fresh Horizons time-out scheme (until 14 Feb) Education Sunday
mon
09
Global Baptist Peace Conference www.globalbaptistpeace.org Park Road, Peterborough Ministers’ Conference - West of England
tues
10
Global Baptist Peace Conference Ministers’ Conference - West of England
wed
11
Ministers’ Conferences - West of England, Heart of England Global Baptist Peace Conference
thur
12
Ministers’ Conference - Heart of England Global Baptist Peace Conference
Free, Little Kimble
fri
13
Global Baptist Peace Conference Ministers’ Conference - Heart of England
Emmanuel, Chatteris
sat
General Secretariat Please pray for the work of the General Secretariat of the Baptist Union. Jonathan Edwards, General Secretary, has a packed diary of meetings, visits and preaching engagements as he seeks to lead the Baptist Union. The majority of his time is spent beyond Baptist House and so pray particularly for his PA, Monica Long, as she seeks to organize his diary and correspondence. Richard Nicholls, General Manager, works closely with Jonathan as he oversees the work of the staff in Didcot. Pray that Richard will continue to be given wisdom and grace as he attends innumerable committees and as he seeks to ensure that the work that is done in close partnership with the Associations and the Colleges. Please also remember Angie Bryant, Richard’s PA, as she supports his vital ministry.
14
Global Baptist Peace Conference
Hope, Caerau
www.parkroad.org.uk
St Valentine’s Day
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Little Thetford, Cambridgeshire
Siloam, Ferwig
Stantonbury Ecumenical Parish, Milton Keynes
15 - 21 February 2009
week 08
www.webassoc.org.uk
sun
15
Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire www.waterbeachbc.org.uk/
mon
16
Union Street, Crewe www.crewebaptist.co.uk
tues
17
Cambourne, Cambridgeshire www.cambournechurch.org.uk
wed
18
Winslow, Buckinghamshire www.winslowbaptistchurch.org.uk
thur
19
Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes www.stonystratfordbaptistchurch.org
fri
20
Shiloh Church, Guernsey www.shiloh.org.uk
sat
West of England Baptist Association (WEBA) WEBA will begin 2009 with a new logo and a new website, which will provide new ways for the Association team to connect with churches and for churches to encourage and inspire one another. For example, under the heading ‘How not to re-invent the wheel’, churches can share the details of their successful mission initiatives, and under ‘WECYCLE’, they can find a home for their old song books! At the same time, the Association team are taking time to reconsider their priorities as an Association. Pray that God will use these efforts to equip WEBA churches so that they in turn can make a difference in the region.
21
St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge www.standrewsstreetbaptist.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
22 - 28 February 2009
week 09
sun
22
Abbots Langley, Hertfordshire
mon
23
Residential Selection Conference Poynton, Cheshire Ministers’ Conferences - Eastern, North Western, Southern Counties, www.pbc.org.uk South West, Yorkshire, Fairtrade Fortnight
tues
24
Residential Selection Conference Thornaby, Cleveland Ministers’ Conferences - Eastern, North Western, Southern Counties, South West, Yorkshire, Shrove Tuesday
wed
25
Residential Selection Conference Albemarle, Scarborough Ministers’ Conferences - Eastern, North Western, Southern Counties, South West, Yorkshire, Ash Wednesday
thur
26
Residential Selection Conference Mission Network
Stockport, Cheshire www.stockportbaptist.org
fri
27
Residential Selection Conference
Oxford Road, Hartlepool www.orbc.org.uk
sat
The Baptist Union Retreat Group The Baptist Union Retreat Group began twenty years ago following Margaret Jarman’s year as BUGB President. It encourages individuals and churches to explore prayer, silence and stillness. It offers both conducted and individually guided retreats and supports leaders and others on their spiritual journey by providing companions (spiritual directors). It also trains people to accompany others in weeks and months of guided prayer within a local church or group of churches. Pray that as the committee seeks those willing to serve or train as companions, they may find a good response. Pray for those seeking a quiet place in the midst of their busy lives. Pray for those going on retreat, that when they return they will make a difference in the community where they live and work.
28
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Lymm, Cheshire www.lymmbaptistchurch.com
March Mothering Sunday We’ve all got a mother, Lord, for some of us it may be an adoptive mother, a foster-mother, a relative or friend who is like a mother to us. For some of us our mother is long dead, for some she is still very much alive, for some of us our mother is still alive but sadly no longer the woman we once knew. Today we thank you for all those who have nurtured and mothered us. And especially, we give thanks for those who, by their example, mothered us into your kingdom. Remind us that in you we have mother, father, parent, companion and friend. Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
01 - 07 March 2009
week 10
www.minehead-baptist.com
sun
01
mon
02
tues
03
wed
04
thur
05
fri
06
sat
Minehead Baptist Church, Somerset (South West) Minehead has a reputation as a good retirement area on the West Somerset coast. Underneath, however, it has many social needs. In 2007 Minehead Baptist Church established The Hope Centre to provide weekly outreach to the homeless and those suffering from addictions or related issues. In its first nine months two people were baptised, exceeding all expectations (it has been awarded the ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Reduction of Re-offending’ award from Somerset and Avon Criminal Justice Board). The Centre’s work is expected to grow in 2009. Pray for wisdom and discernment on the way forward. The Centre has inspired the church to consider how it can reach other areas of society too. Pray for wisdom as they seek God’s direction on how best to do this.
07
National Settlement Team St David’s Day
Llandudno, Conwy
Emmanuel, Falmouth www.emmanuelbaptist.co.uk Team Leaders Meeting
Women’s World Day of Prayer
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Trinity, Falmouth
Great Asby, Cumbria
Upper Eden, Kirkby Stephen
Sussex Street, Rhyl www.rhylbaptist.org.uk Melbourne, Derbyshire
08 - 14 March 2009
week 11
www.baptist.org.uk/colleges
sun
08
Whaley Bridge Uniting Partnership, Whaley Bridge
mon
09
Windley, Derbyshire www.derbyshirebaptists.org.uk/windley.htm
tues
10
Wirksworth, Derbyshire www.findachurch.co.uk/churches/sk/sk25/wirksworthbc
wed
11
Appledore, Devon
thur
12
Bratton Fleming, Devon www.brattonflemingbaptistchurch.org.uk
fri
13
Cranbrook, Ilford www.cranbrookbaptistchurch.org.uk
sat
Baptist Colleges (Part 1) Please pray for: Regent’s Park College and the work of its Centre for Baptist History and Heritage; Spurgeon’s College as they redevelop their premises internally; Northern Baptist College as a new full time tutor joins the team; and South Wales Baptist College, that God will continue to develop the pastoral training of the rich mix of students. Pray too that God will guide the South Wales College and Cardiff University in the key appointment of a new head of the School of Religious and Theological Studies. Pray for ministerial students as they prepare for ministry through study, practical ministry and discipleship, and for their families as they support them. Pray for college staff as they help students to learn and for placement churches as they help ministers in training.
14
Kingswood, Basildon www.kingswoodbaptistchurch.com
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
15 - 21 March 2009
week 12
www.londonbaptist.org.uk
sun
15
mon
16
tues
17
wed
18
thur
19
Watchet and Stogumber, Somerset www.watchetbaptist.org.uk
fri
20
Meredith Road, Coventry
sat
London Baptist Association (LBA) Please pray for the LBA Team as they review staffing structures and consider how to make the most of their resources. In early 2009 they will be holding a series of road shows across London to discuss the Association’s strategy. Please pray that these will be well attended. Pray for the continuing struggle to reach alienated young people, especially as the Association faces the loss of its youth worker, Pete Leveson, in the summer. Pray that congregations joining the Association are made to feel welcome and able to make a good contribution to the life of the LBA. Thank God for Association Ambassador Mike Wood building friendship and co-operation with newcomers, and for Small Church Co-ordinator Hilary Taylor who encourages the many, very small congregations in London.
21
The Haven , Crawley Down www.crawleydownvillage.co.uk/churches
Potters Bar, Hertfordshire www.pbbc.org.uk/god BU Council, Swanwick
BU Council St Patrick’s Day BU Council Trustee Board
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Sabden, Lancashire
Welbeck Street, Ashton Under Lyne
The Well: Retford Baptist Church, Nottinghamshire www.thewellrbc.org
22 - 28 March 2009
week 13
Berwick Baptist Church, Northumberland (Northern) Berwick Baptist Church is close to the Scottish border and is the most northerly church in the BUGB. In October 2008 the church appointed Helen Hume (above) as a part time children’s worker to build up work in schools, town and church. Pray for openings in schools, the growing numbers at church youth clubs and for Helen as she develops her role. Pray for opportunities to build relationships with parents and families. Give thanks for the Young People’s Fellowship, Banner Group, Ladies Bible Study, and Prayer and Bible Study Group. Please pray for the church leadership team as they continue to minister to and support the members and for the church as they seek God’s guidance as to how to best serve one another and the communities in which they live and work.
sun mon
23
Chorlton Central Church, Manchester www.chorlton-central.org.uk
tues
24
Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire www.sbbaptist.org.uk
wed
25
Beltinge, Herne Bay
thur
26
Socketts Heath, Grays www.sockettsheath.org.uk
fri
27
Damerham, Hampshire
sat
Mothering Sunday
22
28
Kings Lynn, Norfolk www.klbc.org.uk
Association Assemblies - East Midland, North Western
Tangier Road, Portsmouth www.trbc.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
29 March - 04 April 2009
week 14
www.baptist.org.uk BUGB Finance and Administration Department including BU Corporation From income tax and pension funds to loans and BUGB Mission Grants, the Finance and Administration Department helps churches with practical, financial and legal matters. Pray for new staff in both the Finance Office and the Baptist Union Corporation, as they continue to settle and be effective members of the team. Pray too for Malcolm Broad, the Union Treasurer, and the Association Treasurers, as they work with Finance staff to ensure that Home Mission targets are met and that resources are effectively used. The Baptist Union Corporation acts as custodian trustee for many of the churches in membership of the Baptist Union. Pray for their staff as they undertake the tasks of charity and land registration for many of the churches of the Union.
sun mon
April Fool’s Day
tues
Broadwater, Worthing www.broadwaterbaptist.org.uk
wed
National Settlement Team Team Leaders Meeting
31 01
thur
Llandough, Penarth
02
Delves, Walsall
fri
National Settlement Team
30
03
Wellington, Somerset www.wellingtonchurch.com
sat
British Summer Time begins
29
04
Hayling Island, Hampshire
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Fivehead, Somerset www.fiveheadbaptist.co.uk
West Croydon, Croydon www.westcroydon.com
April Easter So there is new life after all!!! Forgive us, living Lord, that sometimes we are tempted to lose our nerve, to imagine that there is no new life, that death really does kill all hope. We pray that this Easter we may renew our hope, strengthen our nerve and re-discover hope rising again. We pray in the name of the risen Lord Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
05 - 11 April 2009
week 15
Easter Pray for Baptist churches across the Union as they celebrate Easter this week. Pray for churches that are dramatising the events of Holy Week, that are bringing to life Palm Sunday with palms leaves and donkeys, carrying a cross through the streets of where they live on Good Friday, and meeting early on Easter Sunday to celebrate the risen Lord. Pray for churches that are doing special Easter events for children and families Pray that the resurrection hope of Easter will impact on communities - they will fully understand how this can bring them hope.
sun mon tues
07
wed
08
thur
09
Maundy Thursday
fri
UK financial year starts
06
10
Good Friday (Bank Holiday)
sat
Palm Sunday
05
11
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Chalk Farm, Camden
Emmanuel, Gravesend www.emmanuelgravesend.org Ilfracombe, Devon
Meanwood Valley, Leeds www.mvbc.org.uk Fordhouses, Wolverhampton
Finchley, London
Earlswood, Redhill
12 - 18 April 2009
week 16
www.joppa-uk.org JOPPA JOPPA is the Baptist interfaith network, engaging in dialogue with other faiths, advising local Baptists in their relationships with the religious communities they are living alongside. They produce materials on issues such as effective Christian witness in a multi-faith society. JOPPA holds a seminar at the Baptist Assembly each year: in 2008 Anjum Anwar MBE (above), the first Muslim woman to work at a British cathedral, was interviewed. The 2009 speaker will be David Gifford, Chief Executive of the Council of Christians and Jews. Pray for those from JOPPA and BUGB working on interfaith resources for use in churches. Pray for Baptists and other Christians engaged in sensitive issues in local communities. Pray for our society, that people will learn to live together as good neighbours.
sun mon tues
14
Polesworth, Staffordshire www.polesworthbaptistchurch.co.uk
wed
15
Cote, Aston www.occ.org.uk
thur
16
Woodville, Cardiff www.woodybap.org.uk
fri
Easter Monday (Bank Holiday)
13
17
Simonside, Jarrow
sat
Easter Sunday
12
18
Stourbridge: Hanbury Hill, Dudley
Hillingdon Park, Middlesex www.hillypark.org.uk Hope, Gelli
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
19 - 25 April 2009
week 17
sun
19
mon
20
tues
21
wed
22
thur
23
fri
24
Hebron, Saundersfoot www.hebronbaptistsaundersfoot.org.uk
sat
2009/10 BUGB President: Kingsley Appiagyei Kingsley Appiagyei, Senior Minister at Trinity Baptist Church in West Norwood, London will become Baptist Union President at the Baptist Assembly in May. “The emphasis that I will bring through my presidential year will be that a fresh passion for prayer and revival will be ignited in our churches”, says Kingsley. “Pray that I will inspire again the faith of the forefathers of this great nation, who selflessly toiled against the odds by affecting and changing the continents of the world with the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. Pray that in simplicity and with much humility I may serve my generation by the will of God. Pray for travelling mercies and for the orphanage work in Ghana that I am involved in.”
25
Stocksfield, Northumberland
Moreton, Wirral www.moretonbaptistchurch.org.uk Grenfell, Birmingham
Eurochurch Conference
Tyndale, Bristol www.digitalbristol.org/members/tyndaleb
Eurochurch Conference Earth Day
Wolston, Coventry
Eurochurch Conference Earth Day
Philadelphia: St Thomas, Sheffield www.sttoms.net
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
26 April - 02 May 2009
week 18
www.baptistassembly.org.uk
sun
26
mon
27
tues
28
wed
29
thur
30 Baptist Assembly, Bournemouth
fri
01
sat
Baptist Assembly ‘Who do we think we are?’ – Baptist identity is the theme of the 2009 Baptist Assembly being held at the Bournemouth International Centre. The Assembly theme is inspired by the anniversary of 400 years of Baptist witness in Europe. Pray that the exploration of what Baptists stood for in 1609 and what they stand for today will energise Baptist Christians in their mission. Pray that the Assembly will be well attended and there will be a real sense of family and shared Christian purpose. Pray that those attending will be encouraged and challenged to act on what God is telling them in their home churches. Pray for all those taking part and working behind the scenes.
02
Baptist Assembly
Ash Street, Bootle
Riverside, Port Talbot
Swaffham, Norfolk www.swaffhambaptistchurch.co.uk St Andrews, Shepperton
Brackley, Northamptonshire www.brackley.org.uk Didcot Baptist Church, Oxfordshire www.didcotbaptist.org.uk Creech St Michael, Somerset
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
May Pentecost Holy Spirit, come wind and fire, colour and energy, blowing and burning, dynamic and life-giving, come to us as red fire to burn all that is unworthy of you, come as invisible wind to sweep clean all the dusty corners of our hearts, come as a white dove, bringing peace and purity, come as yellow energy to inspire us to new activity, come as black unfathomable mystery to lead us further into your depths. Holy Spirit, Come Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
03 - 09 May 2009
week 19
Calverton Baptist Church, Nottingham (East Midland) Calverton Baptist Church has had a vision for the last five years of being more involved in their community. In September 2008, Mike Arnold became their full time minister. Mike has been employed to enable the congregation to engage with non-Christians, taking church to them. This is Mike’s first pastorate: pray for him as he settles into Calverton and that he will be bold in the job God has called him to do. Pray for the congregation, that they will not be afraid to do new, potentially scary things, and will feel God’s peace in what they are doing. Pray for wisdom as they discern God’s vision for the church.
sun mon tues
05
wed
Winford, North Somerset
06
thur
Baptist Assembly Bank Holiday
04
07
fri
Beckington, Somerset
08
International Red Cross Day
sat
Baptist Assembly
03
09
World Fair Trade Day
St Andrews Church, Walthamstow
Cannon Street, Accrington
Wapping Community, London
Scarisbrick New Road, Southport www.snrbc.eclipse.co.uk Grange Park, Hayes www.grangeparkbaptist.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
10 - 16 May 2009
week 20
Bryn Sion Baptist Church, Trecynon, Aberdare (South Wales) In October 2008, exactly four years since Bryn Sion Baptist Church reformed as a fellowship, it appointed Lewis Fry to be its minister. Thank God for this answer to prayer and pray for Lewis as he settles into ministry and continues his studies at South Wales Baptist College. Lewis shares the vision of the congregation to be active in the community. In late August 2008 the church cancelled Sunday evening services and was involved in regular Sunday afternoon family outreach in the local park including a fun day that led to some good conversations with the general public. Pray for the follow-up work the church is planning to do, especially speaking to young people on the streets. Pray too as the church strengthens links with the Anglican Church in Trecynon.
sun mon tues wed
13
thur
National Settlement Team National Christian Resources Exhibition (until 15 May)
12
14
fri
National Settlement Team
11
15
Totterdown, Bristol www.tbc.org.uk
sat
Christian Aid Week
10
16
Hay Hill Baptist , Bath
Ebenezer, Griffithstown
Dawley, Telford www.dawleybaptist.org.uk Lliswerry, Newport www.lliswerrybaptist.org.uk Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne www.heatonbaptist.org
Trustee Board
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Upper Studley, Trowbridge www.upperstudleybaptistchurch.co.uk
17 - 23 May 2009
week 21
www.bmsworldmission.org
sun
17
mon
18
tues
19
wed
20
thur
21
fri
22
Hope, Bridgend
sat
BMS World Mission More than a billion people on earth live on less than 50 pence a day. BMS World Mission workers and partners minister in practical and spiritual ways to some of those in greatest need. They bring hope and healing to society’s most vulnerable and ignored people groups: orphaned children, single mothers, illiterate and unemployed men, women trafficked for prostitution, people from minority groups, and those with disease and disabilities. Pray for BMS workers and partners, often working in desperately difficult situations – that, through building lasting relationships, people may come to know the fullness of life that is only found in Christ. Pray too that many more UK Christians would follow God’s call to serve overseas.
23
North: Oldfield Free, Greenford
Woodside, Norwood www.woodsidechurch.org.uk Blaby, Leicestershire
Tonyfelin, Caerphilly
Fellowship of British Baptists Heart of England AGM
Maghull, Liverpool
Fellowship of British Baptists Ascension Day
Jerusalem, Pentrebach
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
24 - 30 May 2009
week 22
www.swbaptists.org.uk
sun
24
mon
25
tues
26
Baptist Community Church, Fakenham www.fakenhambaptist.org.uk
wed
27
Bottesford, North Lincolnshire www.bottesfordbaptist.org.uk
thur
28
Clevedon, North Somerset www.clevedonbaptistchurch.org
fri
29
Aldwincle, Northamptonshire
sat
South West Baptist Association (SWBA) The team at SWBA are focusing on developing church leaderships in 2009 through a variety of events. Working at both ends of the spectrum they want to develop the breadth of ministry of those who have been in leadership for many years through to helping and supporting new leaders who are just taking their first steps. SWBA churches need good leadership teams to deal with the increasing challenges facing them today, and the vision of the SWBA team is to ensure all church leaders from the oldest to the newest are equipped to meet these demands. Please pray for the team as they seek to encourage, inspire and empower church leaders.
30
Cholsey, Oxfordshire
Suffolks, Enfield
Bank Holiday
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Llangwm, Monmouthshire www.dawleybaptist.org.uk
31 May - 06 June 2009
week 23
Memorial Community Church, Plaistow (London) Memorial Community is in the Borough of Newham which has the highest percentage of young people aged 0 - 25 years in London. The church organises a number of activities for young people. In 2008 it received a BUGB Mission Project Grant towards the setting up of a centre with IT facilities to give young people alternatives to the knife crime culture which has become a problem in the area. This summer some young people from the church will be involved in a neighbourhood project in Kenya and in the UK others will be attending a camp the church helps organise to train up the next generation of leaders. A number of members are also involved in the Street Pastors initiative in Newham. Pray for all the work that Memorial Community is doing with young people.
sun mon tues
Oakham, Rutland www.oakhambaptist.org.uk
wed
National Settlement Team
02 03
Mexborough, South Yorkshire www.mexboroughbaptist.org.uk
thur
Mount Zion, Trebanog
04
Ely Baptist: The Church on the Roundabout, Cardiff www.elybaptist.org
fri
National Settlement Team
01
05
Bridgwater, Somerset
sat
Pentecost
31
06
Bethesda, Haverfordwest
Association Assemblies - Northern, Central
Chorley, Shropshire www.chorley-chapel.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
June Fathers’ day Father God, - what a picture of warmth and affection, support and strength. We thank you for fathering us, for your constant on-going unconditional love for us. We thank you for our earthly fathers who often echoed this love. But we remember too before you those for whom the sight of cards and gifts for dad in the shops evoke memories of violence and neglect. Lord, as Father’s Day comes round, may those who dread the season because of their terrible experiences, come to find in you a different fatherhood, and deeper pictures of nurture and love In Jesus’ name, we ask this
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
07 - 13 June 2009
week 24
www.yba.org.uk
sun
07
Trinity Sunday
mon
08
CMCS Steering Group
tues
09
Ministers’ and Church Leaders’ Conference - South Eastern
Golcar, West Yorkshire
wed
10
Ministers’ and Church Leaders’ Conference - South Eastern
Bolstermoor, Golcar
thur
11
Ministers’ and Church Leaders’ Conference - South Eastern Association Treasurers Day
Durrington, Worthing
fri
12
South Wales Assembly
sat
Yorkshire Baptist Association (YBA) Following listening events across Yorkshire, the YBA Executive will be discerning priorities for the way they work, the issues they tackle, the events they run and the money they will spend in the future. Give thanks for the stories of what God is doing in Yorkshire Baptist churches. Pray for wisdom and courage for the Executive, that they can agree fruitful plans and direction. Around twelve churches are participating in a ‘telling the story of Jesus’ course run jointly by the YBA team with Viz-a-Viz Ministries. Pray for YBA Commissioned Minister Jane Day as she encourages these churches and facilitates the training. Pray that the churches will apply what they have learnt. Pray for the whole Association as it celebrates this focus at the YBA Assembly on 13 June.
13
Association Assemblies - London, South Wales, Yorkshire
Fleet, Hampshire www.fleetbaptist.org.uk Cheriton, Folkestone www.cheritonbaptist.co.uk
Chew Magna, Somerset www.chewbaptist.org Kirby Muxloe Free, Leicestershire www.kirbyfree.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
14 - 20 June 2009
week 25
www.baptist.org.uk
sun
14
mon
15
Newly Accredited Ministers’ Conference
Helmshore Christian Fellowship, Haslingden
tues
16
Newly Accredited Ministers’ Conference
Market Harborough, Leicestershire
wed
17
Newly Accredited Ministers’ Conference
Selly Park, Birmingham www.spbc.co.uk
thur
18
Newly Accredited Ministers’ Conference
Stubbington, Hampshire
fri
19
BU Staff Away Day
sat
Ministry The Ministry Department supports ministers throughout all stages of their service. This includes the conference for Newly Accredited Ministers. Pray for those attending the conference this week, that they will find their ministry enriched and inspired. In addition to attending this conference, ministers in the first three years of ministry are mentored and continue to study and learn. Pray for them, that all may find a firm foundation for a life-time of ministry laid in these early years. Pray for wisdom for the Ministry Department as they implement changes in immigration policy and the safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Pray for all the department staff, in their varied roles, that together they will enable ministers to be effective and faithful in service.
20
South West Assembly
East Dartmoor, Devon www.edbc.co.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
West Hove Community, Hove
Zion, Bradford on Avon
21 - 27 June 2009
week 26
www.brbc-horsham.org.uk
sun
21
mon
22
tues
23
wed
24
thur
25
fri
26
sat
Brighton Road Baptist Church, Horsham (South Eastern) Brighton Road has gone through dramatic change over the last two years. In December 2007 the Revd David Richardson, their minister of twenty-seven years, died during an operation. Months later Chris Bird their church secretary of ten years, died of terminal cancer, meaning a strong partnership at the core of the church had disappeared. The church moved into a new purpose built building in July 2008 which is attracting new people and has opened up new opportunities for work in the community. Mission in schools and amongst the elderly is also developing. Pray for the church as it undergoes change. Pray for its future direction and strategy in regards to community and youth work. Pray too for God’s guidance as members look at what church actually means for them.
27
Father’s Day Longest Day Traidcraft Week
East Hill, Wandsworth www.ehbc.co.uk Grange Park, Northampton www.grangeparkchurch.com Hesters Way, Gloucestershire www.hestersway.org
Trustee Board
Kingsbridge, Devon
Trustee Board
New Life, West Bridgford www.newlifebaptist.co.uk Parkend, Gloucestershire
Eastern Annual Assembly
South Craven, Sutton in Craven
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
28 June - 04 July 2009
week 27
www.baptist.org.uk Mission Department The Mission Department is a busy team that aims to equip churches and Regional Associations to fulfil their God-given mission. They do this in partnership with Colleges, Associations and others. The Department is working on a number of exciting projects. Pray for the Fresh Horizons initiative amongst those in their ‘third age’. Pray for the Evangelism conference this week that it will equip churches and individuals to tell the gospel message. Pray too for the many varied networks that the department facilitates. Give thanks to God for the 5000 that came back to Baptist churches last September through the Back to Church Sunday initiative. Pray for this year’s campaign, that more churches will sign up and encourage people to return to church and find faith.
sun mon
29
tues
30
wed
01
thur
02
fri
03
West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire www.wb-bc.org.uk
sat
West of England 3 in 1 event
28
04
Stoke Gifford, South Gloucestershire
West Vale, Halifax www.westvalebaptist.org.uk Sparkbrook, Birmingham
Evangelism Conference (Mission Dept)
Lawn Community Church, Swindon www.lawncc.org.uk
Evangelism Conference (Mission Dept)
Godalming, Surrey www.godalmingbaptistchurch.org.uk
Evangelism Conference (Mission Dept)
High Street, Merthyr Tydfil
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
July Amsterdam 400 years of Baptist history! Part of the story of faith throughout the world. And it is our story. We thank you for all those who faithfully bore witness to you in times past and still do today. We thank you for Baptist friends, churches, communities of faith. We remember that many suffered persecution and hardship because of their faith and we pray for all those, Baptists and many others, who today suffer violence, ridicule and disadvantage because they are Christians. May we, who have the freedom to believe, never take that freedom for granted. We ask this in Jesus’ name
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
05 - 11 July 2009
week 28
www.thenba.org.uk
sun
05
mon
06
tues
07
wed
08
Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire
thur
09
Newbridge, Birmingham
fri
10
South Street & Lewisham Road, Greenwich www.southstreetchurch.org.uk
sat
Northern Baptist Association (NBA) The NBA is seeking to build on the mission experience of 2008, particularly that of Hope ‘08 and Back to Church Sunday. Springboard, the Association’s church consultancy programme, continues to bear fruit as churches use it to consider their mission and life. The staff team will encourage churches to make good use of it in 2009. The Association, itself, will be reflecting on the report of its own review which was submitted at the end of 2008. Pray that the review may lead to creative developments in the Association’s life that ultimately promote the better equipping of Baptist Christians in the north to be missionary disciples. Pray too that the Association’s new moderator and treasurer may settle well into their roles.
11
Tilehouse Street, Hitchin www.ths-baptist.org.uk
Quinton Park, Coventry www.quintonparkbaptistchurch.org.uk National Settlement Team
Haywards Heath, West Sussex
National Settlement Team
Normanton, West Yorkshire
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
12 - 18 July 2009
week 29
www.imcgb.org.uk
sun
12
mon
13
tues
14
wed
15
Conference of European Churches, at Lyon,France
Newington Free, Ramsgate
thur
16
Conference of European Churches
St Helens, Lancashire www.sthelensbaptist.co.uk
fri
17
Conference of European Churches
Sneyd Road, Cricklewood
sat
Independent Methodist Connexion The end of 2009 sees the completion of the initial integration phase of the covenant partnership agreement between the Independent Methodist Connexion (IMC) and BUGB. At the IMC Annual Meeting, to be held 25-26 July at Liverpool Hope University, important decisions will be taken on the next steps in the process. Pray that all churches will seek the mind of Christ on this matter in the coming months. Pray for the newest IM churches – Westy and Appleton (Warrington), Croft (Leigh), Trafford (Manchester) and Bethel, Thorney Close (Sunderland) as they aim to engage with their local communities in presenting the good news of Jesus.
18
Conference of European Churches
Speke, Liverpool
Waltham Abbey, Essex www.wab.org.uk Arlington, Bibury
Lyndhurst, Hampshire www.lyndhurstbaptistchurch.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
19 - 25 July 2009
week 30
www.amsterdam400.org Amsterdam 400 This week over 1700 Baptists from across Europe will be coming to Amsterdam to celebrate the four hundredth anniversary of the first Baptist congregation in the continent which was formed in the city in 1609. Organised by the European Baptist Federation (EBF) it will not only be a chance for European Baptists to look back, but also to seek to discern God’s calling on them for the future. Pray for safe travel for those attending the conference and that any potential visa problems will be resolved. Pray that the organisation of the event will go smoothly. Pray that the programme and opportunity to make new friends in Christ will bless all those that attend. Pray too that the EBF will have a sense of its future direction after the conference.
sun mon
Penge, London www.pengebaptist.co.uk
tues
Conference of European Churches
21
wed
Harringay United Church, London www.huc.org.uk
22
thur
Conference of European Churches
20
23
fri
Grimsby, Lincolnshire www.grimsbybaptistchurch.co.uk
24
Amsterdam 400
sat
Conference of European Churches
19
25
Amsterdam 400 Independant Methodist Connexion Annual Meeting
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Tiptoe, Lymington
West Drayton, Middlesex
Park, Great Yarmouth
Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
26 July - 01 August 2009
week 31
www.shirleybaptist.org
sun
26
Amsterdam 400 Independant Methodist Connexion Annual Meeting
mon
27
BWA Annual Gathering, Ede, Netherlands
tues
28
BWA Annual Gathering
Wimbledon and District Korean Church, Merton Park
wed
29
BWA Annual Gathering
Darwen, Lancashire
thur
30
BWA Annual Gathering
Crofton, Orpington www.croftonbaptist.org.uk
fri
31
BWA Annual Gathering
Victoria, Deal www.victoriabaptist.co.uk
sat
Shirley Baptist Church, Southampton (Southern Counties) Praise God for the thriving youth work amongst children under 14. Pray for guidance and personnel to put something in place for older young people. The church’s large social action programme includes a Child Contact Centre for separated couples, where the non-resident parent meets with his/her children in a safe environment, a Lunch Club, a large Senior Citizens’ club and a thriving Toddler Group. A weekly Advice Centre provides free advice from solicitors, councillors and NHS health trainers. The church has also spearheaded a popular ecumenical initiative with over 100 volunteers, befriending council-referred people, providing transport, shopping, childcare or otherwise helping them. Pray that all this work will be done in the name of Christ and new ways will be found of linking it into church life.
01
BWA Annual Gathering
Carey, Preston www.careybaptistpreston.org.uk
Holbeach, Lincolnshire
Patchway, Bristol www.patchwaybaptist.com
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
August Holidays
At last, a time of rest and refreshment, a break from the daily routine. Well, the children are off school, anyway. Lord, you rested from work on the seventh day. Teach us the value of balance in our lives. When we work, may we work with vision and enthusiasm. When we rest, help us to turn off, not to take our work home with us. And if our work is hard, unfulfilling, boring, help us to see it nevertheless as service to you. And if we would love to work but can’t, help us to make the best of the enforced leisure and serve you and our neighbour in it. For Jesus’ sake we ask this
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
02 - 08 August 2009
week 32
www.nwba.org.uk
sun
02
Yalding, Kent
mon
03
Trinity, Colne
tues
04
East Plumstead, London www.plumsteadbaptists.org
wed
05
Dereham, Norfolk www.derehambaptist.org
thur
06
Rowlett Road, Corby
fri
07
Fleetmeadow, Didcot www.fmbc.org.uk
sat
North Western Baptist Association (NWBA) Pray for NWBA churches that as they explore what it means to be ‘missionary disciples’ and ‘disciple-forming communities’, new and exciting mission opportunities will be discovered. The NWBA’s Mission Networks have identified key strategic mission projects which are now being supported by BUGB Mission Grants. Please pray for church planters Jo and Eli Hassoun in Melling, North Merseyside; Trevor Beckett, working in community mission in Ellesmere Port; Community Minister Angie Tunstall at the Synergy project in Manchester; and missioner Glyn Watson in the Vale of Clwyd, North Wales. Pray as the Association explores with local churches the development of café church, supporting people with debt problems, and better understanding their multi-faith/multi-cultural context.
08
Llangloffan, Pembrokeshire
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
09 - 15 August 2009
week 33
www.baptist.org.uk/leadingedge
sun
09
mon
10
Leading Edge, Warwick
tues
11
Leading Edge
Temple Grafton, Warwickshire
wed
12
Leading Edge
Lee Mount, Halifax www.leemountbaptist.org.uk
thur
13
Leading Edge
Brecon, Watergate & Sardis
fri
14
Leading Edge
Heath Street, Hampstead www.heath-street-baptist-church-hampstead.org.uk
sat
Leading Edge Leading Edge, the BUGB’s summer family festival is being held 10-16 August at the Warwick School in Warwick. The theme this year is ‘Without Walls’. Please pray for the many who come for the week, that God will use this week to refresh and renew their faith and sense of mission. Pray for the many contributors to the week including Ian and Ruth Coffey, Fran Beckett, Mark Greene, David Shosanya, Kingsley Appiagyei, Jonathan Edwards and Dennis Pethers. As most people camp or bring caravans, pray too for good weather so that they can be open to hearing from God without the distractions of wet weather camping. Pray too that children and youth will settle quickly into their programmes and receive encouragements in their own faith.
15
Leading Edge
Horfield, Bristol www.digitalbristol.org/members/hbchurch
Donnington Wood, Telford www.shropshirebaptist.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Narberth Baptist Fellowship, Narberth
16 - 22 August 2009
week 34
www.hillfieldsparkbaptist.co.uk Hillfields Park Baptist Church, Bristol (West of England) Thank God for the recent transformation of Hillfields Park from a small elderly faithful congregation of twenty to the congregation that is ‘bulging at the seams’ in their current premises. Thank God for the arrival of Ian Davies and family, whose contact with men and women with drug and alcohol problems has led to many of them becoming Christians, abandoning their habits, and taking part in the local Christian witness. Pray for the various outreach activities the church is involved in, especially those they have adopted since the local community centre closed. The church has a vision to build a community centre. Architect drawings are with the planning authorities and as the Prayer Guide goes to press, permission is expected soon. Pray that the £500,000 cost will be met.
sun mon
17
Church of the Redeemer, Birmingham www.geocities.com/thechurchoftheredeemer
tues
18
Edmonton, London www.edmontonbaptist.org
wed
19
Cleveleys, Blackpool www.cleveleys-baptist.co.uk
thur
20
Isle of Man Christian Fellowship, Peel
fri
21
Summerhill, Newport
sat
Leading Edge
16
22
Shoeburyness & Thorpe Bay, Essex www.shoeburybaptistchurch.org.uk
Netherton: Lodge Farm, Dudley
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
23 - 29 August 2009
week 35
www.seba-baptist.org.uk
sun
23
mon
24
tues
25
wed
26
thur
27
Gorsley Festival, Herefordshire
fri
28
Gorsley Festival
Royal Docks Community Church, Britannia Village
sat
South Eastern Baptist Association (SEBA) Please pray that during 2009 SEBA’s nine geographical networks will make significant progress in their development. In addition to arranging events, training and celebrations, it is hoped that that they will be supportive environments for churches and ministers – sources of inspiration and encouragement. Please continue to pray for the SEBA Team, that they will be able to adapt to changes as they unfold during the year and for Sheila Smith and Anne Jeater as they oversee the vital work of the busy Ministerial Recognition Committee. Pray for Penny Marsh who leads the exciting Kent Thameside Church Project which began in 2008, and where the growth of the new housing areas is dependent upon the state of the property market.
29
Gorsley Festival
North Street, Hornchurch
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Christ Church, Aberdare
Rowley, Durham
United Free, Totnes www.totnesunitedfree.org.uk Theydon Bois, Essex www.tbbc.org.uk Prescott, Devon
30 August - 05 September 2009
week 36
King’s Community Church, Oldbury (Heart of England) King’s Community wanted to reconnect with their community and realised that if they did not know them, they could not love and introduce them to Jesus. The decision to build a community centre and become more community focussed has led to exciting developments. Kath Tranter started a group for Mums suffering from post natal depression which has led to some mothers being baptised. Kath is now the church’s family champion working in local schools. 75% of the church congregation are involved in Alpha, Freedom in Christ and other groups. Pray for the mission work that King’s Community is doing. Pray that they can continue to be relevant to people’s needs and not get burnt out by their ministries. Pray for discernment to cope with the growth they have experienced
sun mon tues
01
wed
Peacehaven, East Sussex
02
thur
Gorsley Festival Bank Holiday
31
03
fri
Brixham, Devon www.brixhambaptist.org.uk
04
Panshanger, Welwyn Garden City www.panshangerchurch.com
sat
Gorsley Festival
30
05
Greenhill Community Church, Coalville www.greenhillcommunitychurch.org.uk
Trustee Board
Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire
North End, Portsmouth
Croxley Green, Rickmansworth www.croxleybaptist.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
September Racial Justice Sunday Just look around at all those faces - the innocent faces of children, the characterful faces of the old, the vibrant faces of the teenager, the worried faces of the adult, and all different in shape and colour reflecting our origin and our race. What a variety but each one made in the image of the Creator, Lord as we look at other people, may we see you.
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
06 - 12 September 2009
week 37
www.baptist.org.uk/homemission
sun
06
mon
07
tues
08
wed
09
thur
10
fri
11
Wade Street Church, Lichfield www.lichfieldwebdesign.co.uk/urc
sat
Home Mission Home Mission is the Baptist national purse and as such is the way that the Baptist family can support one another in mission. It funds the national resource centre in Didcot, the thirteen associations and BUGB Mission Grants to churches and projects. Pray for the Home Mission Appeal, that it will be reached, despite the difficult financial climate. Pray for Grants Manager, Rachel Tole, and the Grants Committee as they make decisions on which projects and church situations can be supported. Pray for guidance for those that visit potential grant aided churches and recommend if they should receive money. Pray for those who spread the stories of Home Mission across the Union; that local churches will understand the importance of Home Mission and respond generously.
12
Alcester, Warwickshire
Untitled-1 1
London Network Church - West, Acton www.lnc.org.uk Silver Road, Norwich
Earls Barton, Northamptonshire
New Life Community Church, Middleton Cheney
11/08/2008 11:40:44
Mission Network
Wellington: Union Free,Telford
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
13 - 19 September 2009
week 38
www.baptist.org.uk
sun
13
mon
14
tues
15
wed
16
thur
17
fri
18
London Colney, St Albans www.lcbc.ik.com
sat
Racial Justice The BUGB is currently on ‘The Journey’ to building a culturally inclusive Union. The aim is for all parts of the BUGB (churches, colleges, associations and national resource) to become truly multi-cultural. There are three phases to the ‘Journey’: the listening phase, where a small team will make visits to different areas of BUGB to audit how multicultural the Union is; the collating phase, where information from the visits will be gathered and analysed; and, the implementation phase, when decisions will be made and acted on, informed from the first two phases. Pray for BUGB Racial Justice Coordinator Wale Hudson-Roberts and the team as they make listening visits during 2009 and 2010. Pray that God will guide us as a Union through ‘The Journey’.
19
Maidstone Road, Felixstowe www.mrbcfelixstowe.org.uk
Faith & Unity Executive
Loch Road, Parkstone www.parkstonebaptistchurch.co.uk Downs, Brighton www.downsbaptistchurch.org Eastgate, Lewes www.lewesbaptistchurch.org.uk Welcome, Heathfield www.welcomechurch.org.uk Mission Executive
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Rayleigh, Essex www.rayleighbaptist.org.uk
20 - 26 September 2009
week 39
www.baptist.org.uk/colleges
sun
20
mon
21
Ministry Refresher Conference, Swanwick International Day of Peace
tues
22
Baptist Strategy Building Scheme Ministry Refresher Conference
wed
23
Ministry Refresher Conference Ministers’ Conference - East Midland
Hunslet, Leeds www.hunslet-baptist.org.uk
thur
24
Ministers’ Conference - East Midland
Charis, Dagenham
fri
25
Ministers’ Conference - East Midland
Holland on Sea, Essex www.h-o-sbaptistchurch.org.uk
sat
Baptist Colleges Part 2 Pray for Bristol Baptist College as they launch a new degree in ministry to children and families this month; and students and staff at the Scottish Baptist Colleges. Pray too for part-time students of the International Baptist Theological Seminary who work fulltime in their native countries: that they will be able to progress steadily in their studies as they minister at home. Pray for those that are starting as ministerial students at BUGB colleges this autumn and for their families as they adapt to potentially moving home and making new friends. Pray for those that are considering a call to Christian ministry, that they and those who guide them might have discernment and imagination in their waiting on God. Pray for those that have recently left college and are now starting new pastorates.
26
Stradbroke, Suffolk www.lnc.org.uk Stourbridge: Hanbury Hill, Dudley
Green Fields, Crawley
Seaford, East Sussex www.seafordbaptistchurch.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
27 September - 03 October 2009
week 40
www.baptist.org.uk/communications BUGB Communications Department The Department brings together several functions ‘under one roof’ – internal communications (eg Prayer Guide, BUGB Magazine, BUGB DVD and Transform), the BUGB website, media relations, managing major events (eg the Baptist Assembly & Leading Edge), Home Mission Promotion and management of BUGB Publications. Pray for this busy department as it seeks to develop initiatives and resources for BUGB. Pray that at a time when there are ‘quantum leaps’ in all areas of communications that the team will be inspired, equipped and creative as they seek to serve churches and associations effectively. Pray that through these functions our churches will be enabled as they seek to be missionary disciples where they have been called to be.
sun mon
28
tues
29
wed
30
thur
01
Ministry Executive Black History Month
fri
02
Trustee Board
sat
Back to Church Sunday
27
03
Association Treasurers Day North Western Forum & Celebration
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Hamstead Road: Handsworth, Birmingham
Dundry, Dundry
Ebenezer, Coseley
Boston Road, Croydon
Woodseats, Sheffield www.woodseatsbaptistchurch.org North Road, Milford Haven
Bulwell, Nottingham
October Harvest Is this it, Lord? Is this all there is? Just this one world to live in, grow up in, grow old in? Well, if this is the only world we’ve got - we’d better look after it, better make sure it is still there for the future. May our concern for this world echo your enormous generosity. May we scatter love and care prodigally and in an uncalculating way give ourselves to save this fragile planet and its people. In Christ’s name
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
04 - 10 October 2009
week 41
www.baptistconnexion.org.uk
sun
04
mon
05
tues
06
wed
07
Pembury, Kent www.pemburybaptistchurch.org
thur
08
Earls Colne, Essex
fri
09
Burnham on Crouch, Essex
sat
Connexion Connexion is a support network for men and women married to UK Baptist ministers and missionaries. They produce a magazine three times a year and have their own national residential conference every two years. They recognise the diverse roles of those married to ministers and missionaries in today’s church and society and offer friendship, support and prayer. Pray for these marriages and the welfare, education and faith of ministers’ children. Pray for ministerial student families coping with the demands of study alongside church life. Pray for the recently widowed, coming to terms with life from a whole new perspective. Pray for missionary families adjusting to a new culture. Pray for the Connexion Executive Committee that they would be led by Gods’ will.
10
Broadclyst, Devon www.broadclystbaptistchurch.co.uk
Stalham, Norfolk
National Settlement Team
West Green, Tottenham www.netministries.org/see/churches.exe/ch13921
National Settlement Team
Westbury Avenue, Wood Green www.westburyavenuebaptistchurch.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
11 - 17 October 2009
week 42
www.bwanet.org
sun
11
mon
12
tues
13
wed
14
thur
15
Barnack, Lincolnshire
fri
16
Purley Baptist Church, Purley www.purleybaptist.org
sat
Baptist World Alliance (BWA) Every October, the Baptist World Alliance observes Hunger Month, which highlights the levels of poverty that lead to starvation, malnutrition, and other related diseases worldwide. Hunger is caused by a number of factors, including poor agricultural practices, disasters such as flooding and drought, political and commercial mismanagement, war and civil strife, and climate change. Baptist World Aid (BWAid), the relief and development arm of the BWA amongst other tasks, feeds the hungry, and also seeks to address the root causes of hunger. Pray that Baptists all over the world will learn more about hunger issues during this month. Pray for those who are hungry and those helping them. Pray that Baptists will give generously so that BWAid can respond speedily to the many requests it receives.
17
Crook, Durham
Ministers’ Conference - Central
Carmel, New Tredegar
Ministers’ Conference - Central
Wellow, Isle of Wight
Ministers’ Conference - Central
Crayford, Kent www.crayfordbaptistchurch.co.uk
Northern Assembly
Hatch Beauchamp and Ashill, Somerset
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
18 - 24 October 2009
week 43
Harehills Lane Baptist Church, Leeds (Yorkshire) Harehills Lane Baptist Church is in a very diverse area of Leeds. Close to the church there is one of the biggest populations of Manipuri people outside Pakistan. In nearby Chapeltown there is a large concentration of West Indians. There is also a growing number of Somalians and Bangladeshis. In the church congregation there are forty-three nationalities, which has an impact on leadership and church services due to the diversity of Christian traditions. Pray for Harehills, that they will be a constant place of reconciliation between different people and a house of prayer for all nations. Pray for the church’s full time worker with Asian women and families and for its interfaith work; that there will be good relations and they will see a spiritual transformation in people’s lives.
sun mon
19
Berean Baptist Temple, Sheffield
tues
20
Ewhurst, Surrey
wed
21
Dunchurch, Warwickshire www.dunchurchbaptistchurch.org.uk
thur
22
Middleton Park, Leeds
fri
23
Hope Church, Worcester www.hope-church.org.uk
sat
One World Week
18
24
Guernsey: St.Peter Port, Spurgeon Memorial, Channel Islands
Peachcroft Christian Centre, Abingdon www.peachcroftcc.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
25 - 31 October 2009
week 44
www.easternbaptist.org.uk Eastern Baptist Association (EBA) The EBA’s vision is to see the kingdom of God come in the East of England through healthy churches living as wholesome communities and engaging in effective mission. Pray for the EBA Council made up of task group leaders in eight different areas which include Mission (locally and globally), Children and Youth, Administration and Finance. Pray for the three Regional Ministers as they preach and lead forums around the Association where they take the challenge of Home Mission to the churches and are seeing encouraging responses. Praise God and pray for the work undertaken by both the youth co-ordinator Hayley Beckett, and by Portuguese speakers’ mission project AMIGOS, which continues to be fruitful.
sun mon
26
Lydbrook, Gloucestershire
tues
27
Paddock Wood, Kent www.pwbc.org.uk
wed
28
Clayton le Moors, Lancashire
thur
29
Sion, Cloughfold
fri
30
Higham Way, Burbage www.highamway.co.uk
sat
British Summer Time ends Bible Sunday
25
31
Herne Hill, London
Budleigh Salterton, Devon www.budleighbaptistchurch.org.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
November Remembrance “Lest we forget”, poppies, wreathes round the war memorial - reminders of battles still being waged, of young lives lost too soon, of families bereaved suddenly and violently. Lord, when will we learn another way? How long will it take to make peace? Each year, we remember. Each year we pray for another way to solve disputes. Each year we don’t seem any closer to your peace. Lord, forgive us, and teach us. In Jesus’ name we pray Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
01 - 07 November 2009
week 45
www.mbfc.org.uk
sun
01
mon
02
tues
03
wed
04
Highfield Community Baptist Church, Rushden www.highfield-community.org
thur
05
Cemetery Road, Sheffield www.crbchurch.org.uk
fri
06
Esher Green, Surrey www.esherchurch.org
sat
Marshalswick Baptist Free Church, St Albans (Central) When the church building recently became forty years old, Marshalswick Baptist Free agreed ‘foundation stones’ for its improvement which included a new PA System, blinds in the church, and solar panels to make it more environmentally friendly etc. Thank God that three of the five foundation stones have already been achieved. Pray for the installation of the solar panels on the church roof, that it will encourage others to think about creation care and will show that the church is serious about playing its part. Pray that the church’s sowing will turn into reaping, that the 1200 people that come through the church doors each week for community activities will want to know more about the Christian message. Pray that the encouraging relationships that have been developed with local schools will continue to grow.
07
Tabernacl, Pontardulais
Hornsey Rise, London
National Settlement Team Baptist Women’s World Day of Prayer National Settlement Team
Orchard Place, Neath
New Road, Oxford www.newroadbaptistchurchoxford.co.uk
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
08 - 14 November 2009
week 46
www.baptist.org.uk/council BUGB Council The Baptist Union Council meets every March and November. It consists of some 200 members drawn from churches, associations, colleges and co-opted delegates. At Council the work of the Union and issues facing it are reported on and discussed. Council works through the newly formed Trustee Board and the Executive Committees who oversee the work of Mission, Ministry and Faith & Unity. Pray for God’s guidance on the decisions to be made at Council. Pray that discussions will be inclusive and accessible to all and that mission will be at the heart of them. Pray for a spirit of co-operation and working together to prevail.
sun mon
BU Council Trustee Board
tues
BU Council
10
wed
Westlea (West Swindon LEP), Swindon
11
thur
BU Council, Swanwick
09
12
Word of Spirit and Life, Wolverhampton
fri
Chichester, West Sussex www.chichesterbaptist.org.uk
13
Aldeburgh, Suffolk
sat
Remembrance Sunday
08
14
Safe to Grow Group, London
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Brixton Baptist Church, Brixton
Eastville, Bristol
Park Road, Rushden www.parkroadbaptist.co.uk
15 - 21 November 2009
week 47
Chaplains Over 200 Baptist ministers across England and Wales are involved in chaplaincy either full or part time, some of which are supported by Home Mission. There are chaplains in education, the Armed Forces, industry, retail, health, prisons and sport. For those with whom the chaplains work, it can be their only contact with a person of faith. The chaplain supports staff and others and raises issues of justice and humanity with the organisation they serve. Opportunities also arise to share the Christian Gospel. Pray for chaplains in the various sectors, that they will demonstrate the love of Christ in action and that the people they interact with will be drawn to find out more about the Christian faith. Pray that chaplains will feel encouraged and supported in their often isolated work.
sun mon
16
tues
17
wed
18
thur
19
fri
20
Ringmer, East Sussex www.kstarnes.mistral.co.uk
sat
Prisons Week
15
21
Exmouth Baptist, Devon www.exmouthbaptist.org.uk
Student Day (BU)
Student Day (BMS)
Totteridge Road, Enfield www.trbchurch.org.uk Norbury, London
Central, Bolton
Winchester Baptist Church, Winchester www.winbap.org.uk Farmhill, Stroud www.farmhillbaptistchurch.ik.com
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
22 - 28 November 2009
week 48
www.embaptists.co.uk
sun
22
mon
23
tues
24
wed
25
thur
26
Christ Church, New Southgate & Friern Barnet, London www.christchurchnsfb.org.uk
fri
27
Gaer, Newport
sat
East Midland Baptist Association (EMBA) Baptist communities in the EMBA face a range of challenges, changes, encouragements and pressures. New initiatives are taking place and traditional congregations are seeking God for their future. Pray as the Peterborough churches consider church planting in the Hamptons development; as Lincolnshire churches partner together in mission and seek ways forward for village church renewal; as the Soar Valley Gospel Partnership, north and south of Loughborough, finds new ways of engaging in ministry and mission; as Derbyshire churches find fresh ways of being God’s community, and for all churches seeking solutions to the issues surrounding the blessings and burdens of buildings. Thank God for conversions and baptisms in Greenhill, Spalding and Lincoln to name just a few.
28
Highams Park, London www.hpbc.co.uk
Weymouth, Dorset www.weychurch.co.uk Residential Selection Conference
Residential Selection Conference
Residential Selection Conference
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
South Molton, Devon www.southmoltonbaptistchurch.co.uk Ferndale, Southend on Sea
All Nations, Clapham Park, London
29 November - 05 December 2009
week 49
www.baptist.org.uk/faithandunity Faith and Unity Department This Department seeks to reflect on what we as Baptists believe, to nurture prayer and worship, to encourage relations with other Christians, and to promote campaigning and action on issues of justice and equality. Pray for all church communities who strive to affirm our oneness in Christ and so, to further God’s reconciling kingdom. Pray for the Joint Public Issues Team (a partnership with the Methodist Church and United Reformed Church working on political and social affairs), that together we will deepen our shared witness to the gospel of Christ in today’s society. Pray for a church committed to justice for all. Pray for the team as they seek to serve and equip us.
sun mon
30
tues
01
wed
02
thur
03
fri
04
Southwick Christian Community, West Sussex www.southwick-ccc.org.uk
sat
Advent Sunday
29
05
Springfield, Thornton Heath www.springfieldbaptist.org.uk
Campsbourne, Hornsey
Collingham, Nottinghamshire www.ecccollingham.org.uk World AIDS Day
Hope, Highbridge www.hopeinhighbridge.co.uk Elmswell, Suffolk www.elmswellbaptist.org.uk
Mission Network
Cradley Heath: Fourways, Dudley
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
December Christmas Let the eyes sparkle, the children lose sleep, the excitement build, the shopping stress us out!!! Let the church be filled with carols, glitter, tinsel, expectation. Then, Lord, fill us with peace and joy and hope as you are once more born into our Christmas. We pray in the name of the Christmas baby who is our Lord and Saviour Amen
www.baptist.org.uk/prayer
06 - 12 December 2009
week 50
www.baptisttimes.co.uk
sun
06
mon
07
tues
08
wed
09
Alperton, Wembley
thur
10
Brighton Road, South Croydon www.brightonroadbaptist.org.uk
fri
11
Gunton, Lowestoft
sat
The Baptist Times The Baptist Times is the denomination’s weekly newspaper. It contains local, national and international Baptist and Christian news, feature articles, reviews, and opinion pieces from Baptist ministers and others. Pray for imagination and vision on the part of the editorial team. Pray that the team will continue to work well together to deliver a high-quality publication and that more will subscribe to the paper.
12
New Life Church, Woking www.newlifechurch.org.uk
East Sheen, London www.eastsheenbaptist.org National Settlement Team
Sittingbourne, Kent www.sittingbournebaptistchurch.org.uk
National Settlement Team
The Rock, Chattenden www.peninsularock.org
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
13 - 19 December 2009
week 51
www.lodechapel.org.uk // www.re-new.me.uk
sun
13
mon
14
tues
15
wed
16
Poverest Road, Petts Wood
thur
17
Ibstock, Leicestershire
fri
18
Sutton St James, Lincolnshire
sat
Lode Chapel, Cambridgeshire (Eastern) Lode Chapel serves five villages located midway between Cambridge and Newmarket. Its minister, Simon Goddard, was ordained in August 2008 and is BUGB Mission Grant-aided. In 2006 Lode Chapel initiated a monthly fresh expression of church called ‘Sunday Club’. In partnership with the local Anglicans, this event, now renamed ‘RE:NEW’, is taking place fortnightly and is growing into a new congregation. As the church plant develops, the existing congregation at Lode Chapel (which has just over twenty members) is seeking a distinct vision for its own future ministry and mission. Please pray for this, and for the future of ‘RE:NEW’ – that there will continue to be church unity, and for resources and personnel to help both expressions of church grow and flourish.
19
Gunnersbury, London www.gunnersburybaptistchurch.org
Trustee Board
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Boscombe, Bournemouth www.boscombe-baptist.org Maldon, Essex www.maldonbaptistchurch.org.uk Borehamwood, Hertfordshire
20 - 26 December 2009
week 52
www.singchristmas.org.uk
sun
20
mon
21
tues
22
wed
23
thur
24
Christmas Eve
Chipperfield, Kings Langley
fri
25
Christmas Day
Markyate, Hertfordshire
sat
Christmas Christmas is an excellent time to connect with our communities. Many Baptist churches in Leicestershire do this through Sing Christmas, an interactive carol service organised by the Leicestershire Churches Media Trust and broadcast live by BBC Radio Leicester. Churches invite and help community venues to join in with the broadcast. Pubs, clubs, community centres, care homes, etc tune in, play it out and people sing along. Pray for Sing Christmas and other similar BBC carol services (Real Christmas Carol, Big Christmas Carol Services etc) across the country, that they will attract many non-Christians. Pray for those organising the services and deciding on the content. Pray for all those involved in carol services and other Christmas festivities: that they will be inspired and refreshed by God.
26
Boxing Day
Knaphill, Woking www.knaphillbaptistchurch.org.uk Church Fraternity Evangelic, Tottenham
Tunbridge Wells, Kent www.twbc.org.uk Bunyan, Stevenage www.bunyan.org.uk
Gospel Restoration Church, Wembley
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
27 December 2009 - 02 January 2010
week 53
www.cambrensis.org.uk // www.hemustincrease.com
sun
27
mon
28
tues
29
wed
30
thur
31
fri
01
sat
Worship Pray for worship in its various forms across the Union. Pray for churches in the Union who struggle to get able and willing people to lead worship and for those whose leaders are feeling burnt out that they will be supported and refreshed. Pray that God will lead those preparing worship for next year’s Baptist Assembly and Leading Edge. Cambrensis Choir is a choir from South Wales with Baptist links. Pray that they will be able to spread the good news of Jesus Christ through song and testimony at their concerts. Phil Williams from Baptist church, the Millmead Centre in Guildford, has launched a social network site for worship leaders called He Must Increase. Pray that this website will be an encouragement and inspiration to worship groups around the country.
02
New Year’s Day
Encouraging Missionary Disciples
Wellington Square, Hastings www.wellingtonsquare.co.uk Upper Edge, Rastrick, Yorkshire
Shilton, Coventry
Nansen Road, Ipswich
Penuel, Pembrokeshire
St Pauls Baptist Church, Skegness
Horndean Baptist Church, Waterlooville, Hampshire
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