A PRAYER JOURNAL FOR THEMETHODIST CHURCH IN IRELAND

PRAYER FOCUS 2020-2021

INTRODUCTION

PRAYER FOCUS DIGESTPrayer Focus is also sent out in the form

of a daily email newsletter. Sign up to

receive the Prayer Focus Digest email

at http://eepurl.com/dCyM-f and it will

arrive in your Inbox every morning at

about 7.00am.

Any correspondence and corrections regarding this publication can be directed to:

“Prayer Focus”

Methodist Home Mission

Edgehill House, 9 Lennoxvale,

Belfast, BT9 5BY

Email: prayerfocus@irishmethodist.org

Web: www.irishmethodist.org/prayer

© 2020 The Methodist Church in Ireland

All rights reserved. Please do not photocopy (or produce in any way) any part of this publication without prior permission.

Editorial Team:

Mark Forsyth

Laura Kerr

George Orr

Linda McGuffin

Prayers chosen by:

Rosemary Fletcher

Design and Layout:

Ricky Stone

ABBREVIATIONSMCIMethodist Church in Ireland

WMPWorld Mission Partnership

MHMMethodist Home Mission

WDRWorld Development & Relief

MWIMethodist Women in Ireland

PCIPresbyterian Church in Ireland

IMYCIrish Methodist Youth and Children’s Department

TOMTeam on Mission

UMCUnited Methodist Church (usually referring to Methodism in USA)

When a capital C is used in Church, it is to denote a national denomination.

COLOUR LEGENDn World Mission Partnership

n Committees/Schools/Departments/Chaplaincies

n Districts/Circuits/Congregations/Pioneer Mission

n World Development & Relief

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

Southern District

PRAYER FOCUS

DAYNorth

Western District

PRAYER FOCUS

DAYNorth

Eastern District

Welcome to Prayer Focus 2020-2021.

Prayer Focus is a prayer journal for the

Methodist Church in Ireland.

For almost two decades, Methodists

across the island have been using

Prayer Focus daily to pray for all aspects

of the Methodist Church in Ireland:

local churches, local communities,

the Methodist Church in other parts

of the world, our partners overseas,

departments and committees of the

Church, our schools and chaplains,

pioneer mission projects and more.

Prayer Focus provides not only the

information needed for focused and

informed prayer but also contains

prayers that can be used in prayer

groups and public worship.

As the Methodist Church in Ireland,

God is consistently asking us to pray.

This is all the more important in

2020/21, a year that will without doubt

hold a deep significance for us as a

Connexion. When this journal went to

print, there was no way of knowing for

sure what Church life would look like

in three months, six months or even a

year down the line. We have tried in

our prayers to balance difficulty and

uncertainty with the unchanging nature

of God, and our continuing hopeful and

creative participation in God’s mission,

in whatever circumstances we find

ourselves.

Use this journal daily for personal

prayer.

Pray through it with other church

members.

Let it guide your intercessory prayers

when you gather for worship.

Listen to what God has to say to us as

the Methodist Church in Ireland as you

pray.

From all in theHome Mission Department

2 3

PRESIDENT’S LETTER LAY LEADER’S LETTERI read a story recently in a book on prayer, about drought in an area and how the churches responded to it. Some simply accepted that it was all predestined and asked the Lord to show them clearly what they needed to learn. Some started to form a committee to look at what practical measures could be taken. Some decided to hold a meeting and pray for rain, although it was noticeable that only one woman brought her umbrella. This made me smile but it makes a point. I am very aware of my timid expectations when I pray, I think I might have turned up at that meeting without my umbrella.

I’m writing this as we are all caught in the COVID-19 crisis when our lives have been upended and everything is uncertain. Because of that we need to look again at the certainties of our faith. God who spoke in the past through a long line of prophets, in these last days has spoken to us through his Son. He is before all things and in him all things hold together, Paul tells us. He made it possible for our sins to be forgiven, he sent his Spirit as the deposit guaranteeing what is to come. He is seated at the right hand of the majesty and one day every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that he is Lord. In one of the great “I Am” passages he assured us, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me will live even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.”

Do you believe this? Jesus addressed that question to Mary and I sometimes ask it of myself when I consider the great truth claims of our faith; and my response is “Yes, oh yes Lord, I believe!”

In the light of this incredible truth we pray with the knowledge that our prayers take us into the purposes of God, into partnership with him in the affairs of our Church, our nation and our world.

To help us in this urgent business Prayer Focus is offered as a resource as we pray for the work of all the departments of our Church, for our circuits the length and breadth of our beloved island and for our mission partners scattered across the world. I heartily commend it to you.

Hazel

Mrs Hazel Loney.The Rev. Dr Tom McKnight.

When I was elected President-Designate in June of 2019 and thought about the challenges the Church might face during my Presidential year, I forgot to include pandemic on the list. That won’t happen again in a hurry.

One thing the coronavirus pandemic has done is to remind us of the importance of prayer. Because we have not been able to meet together for worship, personal prayer has become vital in maintaining our spiritual lives.

For many years now, Prayer Focus has been a way for us in the Methodist Church in Ireland to focus both our corporate and our personal prayer. As we enter this new Connexional year, amid the uncertainties caused by the lockdown and its easing, we need this prayer – we need this focus – more than ever.

My theme for the year is “Grace without Limits”. When John Wesley listed the so-called “Means of Grace”, he lists prayer first. He quotes from Matthew 7: 7 “Ask and it shall be given to you,” and James 1: 5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.” He then says:

“Here God plainly ordains prayer as the means of receiving whatsoever grace we want; particularly that wisdom from

above which is the chief fruit of the grace of God.

“Here, likewise, God commands all to pray who desire to receive any grace from him. Here is no restriction as to believers or unbelievers, but least of all to unbelievers; for such, doubtless, were most of those to whom he said, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you.’”

In other words, as surprising as it seems, John Wesley is saying that prayer is for everyone, not just for believing Christians. That is the vastness of God’s grace.

So do use this year’s Prayer Focus in your church and in your personal prayer. We – the Church, this island, the world – need God’s grace and wisdom as much as ever before.

Tom

4 5

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

1THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF CONFERENCEThis team exists to support circuits in their life and mission.Secretary: Heather Morris

HR Manager and PA to the Secretary of Conference: Gillian Skillen

Safeguarding Officer: Nicky Blair

Chief Financial Officer: Gillian Laney

Accountant: Sharon Brown

Finance Officers: Maureen Crothers, Jacky Brown

Estates Manager: Simon Kinghan

Facilities Manager and IT Support: Wayne Mulholland

Edgehill House Receptionist: Ruth Weir

TRUSTEES OF THE METHODIST CHURCHThe Trustees have oversight of the investments and other financial functions of the Church.Treasurers: Sam McGuffin, Rory O’Ferrall

Chair of Trustees Standing Committee: Tom Millar

PRAYERLord, we thank you for the resources we have in the Methodist Church in Ireland. We ask that you guide those entrusted with oversight of these resources and give them wisdom as they carry out their work. We pray your blessing on Heather as she co-ordinates this work and may every decision that is made bring you glory and help to extend your Kingdom. Amen.

PRESIDENT, LAY LEADER AND PRESIDENT DESIGNATEPresident: Tom McKnight

Lay Leader: Hazel Loney

PRAYERWe thank you Lord for Tom and Hazel. We thank you for calling them to the roles of President and Lay Leader and ask that you would protect them from all harm and guide them in all that they do for you during this year. Bless our Connexion through them. We also ask your blessing on Tom’s wife Elizabeth and Hazel’s husband Bobby as they support them. In your name we pray. Amen.

GENERAL COMMITTEEThe General Committee acts as “Conference between Conferences”. It acts as a management committee for our life together and encourages and guides strategic thinking on the mission into which God calls us.President: Tom McKnight

Lay Leader: Hazel Loney

Secretary: Heather Morris

General Purposes Fund Ministerial Secretary: Jeremy Nicoll

General Purposes Fund Lay Secretary: Doug Edmondson

PRAYERAs many changes come this year in the General Committee, we pray that you will be especially near to all who serve in this way. We thank you for their skills and abilities and ask that you grant them wisdom and a will to make decisions, guided by the Holy Spirit, that serve the Connexion well. In your name we pray. Amen.

CONNEXIONAL TEAMThe purpose of the Connexional Team is to serve the Methodist Church in Ireland by enabling, co-ordinating and implementing the Church’s vision for mission and discipleship, that the Church might be a growing, vibrant, faith-filled community of disciples.

The Connexional Team is made up of the President of the Conference (Tom McKnight), the Lay Leader of the Conference (Hazel Loney), the Secretary of Conference (Heather Morris), the President Designate, the Director of Ministry (John Alderdice), the General Secretary of the Irish Methodist Youth and Children’s Department (Gillian Gilmore), the Chair of the Connexional Finance Committee (Harold Baird), the Chair of the Church Development Board (Tom Clarke), and the District Superintendents (Philip Agnew, Andrew Dougherty and Stephen Skuce).

PRAYERFather, as we seek to be a Church where mission is our priority, we pray that you would use the connexional team to encourage and support our whole Church. We long to see more people come to know you personally and pray that this team will be used to this end. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

STATIONINGThe Sub-group of the Connexional Team is responsible for discerning, consulting, and then bringing proposals to the Conference as to the appropriate matching between ministers and circuits.That Stationing Sub-Group is made up of the President of the Conference, the Lay Leader of the Conference, the Secretary of Conference, the President-Designate of the Conference, the District Superintendents and the Director of Ministry.

PRAYERLord, we ask your blessing on stationing: for those who are tasked with making decisions – the committee, ministers and circuits. Help all to listen for your voice and to be willing to do your will. We pray that you will bless the families who will move and the circuits experiencing a change this year. Help all to work together for your Kingdom. In your name. Amen.

David Griffith, Secretary of Conference Ambassador.

Heather Morris, Secretary of Conference.

6 7

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

2SOUTHERN DISTRICTDistrict Superintendent: Andrew Dougherty

District Lay Leaders: Ruth Mathews, Gillie Hinds

The Southern District comprises around 50 societies and 16 circuits, with a membership of almost 5,500 people. The Lay Leaders and District Superintendent seek to be available and travel widely, offering encouragement and support as appropriate. Most societies have prayerfully considered their Discipleship and Mission Strategies and seek to implement them with passion and creativity. It’s our desire to witness the district grow spiritually and numerically and support God in his mission.

PRAYERSpirit of the Living God fall afresh on us, so that we might be willing to experiment, risk misunderstanding and try new things. Break us, to discern your will, your activity and your guidance. Melt us, so that we might not live in the past, worry about the present or be frightened concerning the future. Mould us, so that we become relevant disciples with an appreciation of the challenge and cost involved. Fill us, so that we have the confidence to know your power and unconditional love to live as you desire us to live and impact the communities in which we serve. Amen.

DUBLIN SOUTH CITY, COMPRISING CENTENARY, RATHGAR, DUBLIN KOREAN CHURCH AND TALLAGHTSuperintendent Minister: Andrew G. Kingston

Minister: Yongnam Park

Facilities Manager: Don Black

PRAYERWe pray for this wonderfully diverse circuit, giving thanks for the work among the Korean population. It is likely that many Koreans will not now study here next year. Strengthen the core that remains and equip those who sojourned here, even for a short time, for a lifetime of service. We pray for Rathgar where there are signs of

Mary and Yvonne preparing Christmas hampers in Dublin.

Ruth Mathews and Gillie Hinds.

Andrew Dougherty.

Bevin Jennings, Southern District Ambassador.

new life. We pray for An Solas, Tallaght; that it will continue to be a light through the God’s Store House Foodbank. We pray for Methodist Centenary, that through vibrant worship, many will encounter the living Christ. We remember before God those most severely impacted by exorbitant housing costs, including several in our congregations who find themselves homeless. Amen.

THE METHODIST CHURCH, TOGOWorld Mission Partnership is helping each of MCI’s districts to develop a link with a World Church. The Southern District is linked with the Methodist Church, Togo.

PRAYERGod, we pray for the Southern District Link with the Methodist Church, Togo. Use this relationship to further your Kingdom. We pray for the leaders in the Togolese Church and ask that you grant them wisdom, knowledge and the assurance of your presence with them. We pray that you will pour out your blessing on the new strategic plan in the Church, and that you will continue to shape it. Thank you for the Church’s ministry amongst the most vulnerable in their society. We pray that people will know you through their compassion, love and care. Amen.

8 9

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

3DUBLIN CENTRAL MISSION, COMPRISING ABBEY STREET, BLANCHARDSTOWN AND LUCANAlso including Ailt an Óir and Margaretholme Sheltered Housing Complexes and Mount Tabor Nursing Home.Welcoming, Serving, Supporting.Superintendent Minister: Laurence Graham (Abbey Street)

Minister: Tawanda Sungai (Blanchardstown and Lucan)

Abbey Street Pastoral Assistant: Avril Carroll

Abbey Street Centre Manager: Graham Caswell

Care of the Older Person CEO: David Reynolds

Director of Care, Mount Tabor NH: Najamol Naterajan

Director of Sheltered Housing: Caroline Casserly-Farrar

Financial Controller: Karena O’Sullivan

Care of the Older Person Chaplain: Mary Evuarherhe

PRAYERFather God, you welcome into your Kingdom anyone who turns to you in faith; in Christ you entered humanity as a servant, and now you offer the Holy Spirit to be a support for us. As we reflect on the three key words in DCM’s Mission Statement, Welcoming Serving and Supporting, we pray that these words would encapsulate the ministry of DCM in Sheltered Housing Complexes for older people, in Mount Tabor Nursing Home, in seeking to address the myriad needs of those who use our premises in Abbey Street, in offering help to homeless people, and in the worship and witness of our congregations in Lucan, Blanchardstown and Abbey Street. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

CAVAN CHURCH PLANT

PRAYERWe pray for growth and outreach in the Cavan society and that plans to rent a space in the town will allow the congregation to engage more with the community. We thank God for the enthusiasm of the people and the two local preachers in training. Amen.

WORLD DEVELOPMENT & RELIEF (WDR)Through WDR, the Methodist Church in Ireland continues to show Christ’s love to those living in poverty and suffering injustice around the world. WDR does this by partnering with local development organisations and empowering people and communities to deliver projects with a long-term focus.Convener: David Nixon

Secretary: Beth Hand

World Development Officer: Tim Dunwoody

Administration and Communications Officer: Laura Kerr

PRAYERFather, we thank you for 50 years of WDR partner relationships. Help us to learn from one another, to give generously and serve wholeheartedly. We praise you for your love and faithfulness in times of adversity and in times of plenty. Inspire us to play our part to help your Kingdom grow in the spheres of education, healthcare, water, housing, farming, skills training, business and advocacy. May you fulfil every good purpose and act prompted by faith for your honour and glory. Amen.

WORLD MISSION PARTNERSHIP (WMP)Vision: Sharing Christ around the world, together.General Secretary: Laurence Graham

Lay Treasurer: Ian Patterson

Ministerial Treasurer: Peter Murray

World Mission Officer: Tim Dunwoody

Administration and Communications Officer: Laura Kerr

PRAYERO Lord, our God, we thank you for your amazing grace. It is grace which makes it possible for us and all the world to come into relationship with you. Help us as we build stronger relationships on each district with Methodist Churches in Poland, Togo and Ghana. We ask you to guide the World Mission Partnership staff and committee as they foster and develop these two-way relationships of sharing, listening and learning. And help us all to be obedient to what you say. Amen.

Rhys Earl, WDR Ambassador.

Archbishop Michael Jackson preaching in DCM. Tim Dunwoody and Laura Kerr, WMP and WDR.

10 11

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

4CHRIST CHURCH, SANDYMOUNT (UNITED PRESBYTERIAN AND METHODIST)Superintendent Minister: Laurence Graham

Minister: Katherine P. Meyer

To live gratefully, simply, justly and generously, in the presence of God and our neighbours.

PRAYERMay we be witnesses to the things of resurrection, as Jesus appointed us, though they are so much larger than we are; may we remain attentive in our witness to the work of the Spirit, in and around us; and may we work always to make human life more human, as Christ was human, in these times. Amen.

SOUTH-EAST LEINSTER, COMPRISING DUN LAOGHAIRE, BRAY, WICKLOW, ARKLOW AND GOREYThis district stretches from Dún Laoghaire in Co. Dublin, south through Co. Wicklow and into Co. Wexford. This is an area of continuous and rapid housing development, increasing our mission area each day.Superintendent Minister: David Nixon

Ministers: Mark Forsyth, Katherine KehoePRAYERFather God, we pray for your disciples who are living and ministering in South-East Leinster. Continue to inspire each one as they open themselves to your leading in their daily mission to all the people whom they meet every day. Give them courage and boldness as they speak about their faith in you. Continue to inspire the congregations as they gather together in their collective activities and then as they scatter to serve you in their individual mission fields. Amen.

URBAN JUNCTION, BLACKROCKSuperintendent Minister: Andrew Dougherty

Leader: Simon Kilpatrick

Missional Community Leader: Belinda Briggs

Teaching Ministry: Michael Briggs

Voluntary Youth Intern: Tara Redmond

PRAYERFather God, we thank you for your provisions and blessings over the years with our journey towards our Community Garden and Men’s Shed. God, we pray that the shed and garden would be a safe space, both physically and mentally, for the people and, in particular, for the men of the local community. God, we ask that you would give leaders strength and courage to have conversations with those who don’t yet know you. Let us shine your light in all that we do. We ask this all in Jesus’ name. Amen.

IRISH METHODIST YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT (IMYC)IMYC is responsible for youth and children’s work in the Methodist Church in Ireland. www.imycd.orgTeam Leader: Gillian Gilmore

Youth: Lisa Best, Gemma Barclay

Children: Nicky Blair

Training and Development: Leanne Hill

Communications: Amy Anderson

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray that you bless and protect children and young people across this land, and that they would grow in knowing you and recognising your love for them. We praise you for each person who gives their time to walk with children and young people, to encourage and support them and do what they can to ensure they feel loved and valued. We pray for courage and confidence as a department as we seek to support and resource children, young people and their leaders. Amen.

Urban Junction men’s shed and garden, Blackrock, Dublin.

TEAM ON MISSIONTOM is a gap-year programme of the Methodist Church in Ireland for 18-25-year-olds. The mission has been, and always will be, to answer the call of Jesus – to love God and others and to make disciples, through work among young people and children across this island.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you that you continue to move in the work of the TOM team, and we praise you for the impact that each team makes in the various places they visit. Thank you, God, that you speak to, and guide, each team member in your ways and that the year is a significant one in their walk with you. God, we pray for TOM32, that they would be united as a team as they serve you in a new way and that your name would be glorified in all that they do and share. Amen.

Danielle Chambers, IMYC Ambassador.

Oh! The love that drew salvation’s plan, Oh! the grace that brought it down to man, Oh! the mighty gulf that God did span, At Calvary. Mercy there was great and grace was free, Pardon there was multiplied to me, There my burdened soul found liberty, At Calvary. (Wm. R. Newell, 1868-1956)

Grace tis a charming sound, Harmonious to the ear, Heaven with the echo shall resound, And all the earth shall hear. Saved by grace alone, This is all my plea; Jesus died for all mankind, And Jesus died for me. (Philip Doddridge, 1702-51)

12 13

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

5METHODIST WOMEN IN IRELAND“To know Christ and make Him known.” There are approximately 1,900 members around the island who meet under this banner.President: Joan Strong

Secretary: Liz MacBean

Treasurer: Barbara Fennell

World Mission Secretary: Pat Jamison

World Federation President: Alison Judd

World Federation European Area President: Louise Wilson

PRAYEROur gracious and heavenly Father, we are grateful for your guidance and direction in our lives and particularly with Methodist Women in Ireland. We are living through

unprecedented times with the coronavirus, but we can rely on your Word to sustain us as we learn to live life to a different normal. Father, we ask your blessing on Joan, our President, and all the General Officers, as we seek to serve you and to make Christ known to all women in Ireland. Amen.

PROPERTY BOARDThe Property Board offers advice and guidance in the planning of property-related issues. It has a responsibility to protect the interests of circuits and the Connexion through scrutinising and assessing plans and proposals.Chair: Keith Irvine

Secretary: Ken Connor

Lay Treasurer: Paul Cummings

Ministerial Treasurer: Andrew Kingston

PRAYERLord, may all with responsibility for property be diligent stewards of the resources you have placed into our care. We thank you for those who care for and manage our properties. We pray for the Estates Manager as he continues to develop this role. We pray for the Executive members as they work with the District Superintendents and the Connexion in fulfilling their responsibilities. Help us to have in our hearts a desire to develop mission, worship and service that can be facilitated within our buildings. Amen.

PRISON AND HEALTHCARE CHAPLAINCY COMMITTEETo support and promote Christian chaplaincy ministries of healing, care and restoration among vulnerable people.Chairperson: John Warren

Secretary: Derek Johnston

Healthcare Sunday is normally a Sunday near to St Luke’s Day, 18 October 2020. Prisons’ Week NI is 11-17 October 2020. See www.prisonsweek.org.

THE PRISONS’ WEEK PRAYERLord, you offer freedom to all people. We pray for those in prison. Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist. Support with your love prisoners and their families and friends, prison staff and all who care. Heal those who have been wounded by the actions of others, especially the victims of crime. Help us to forgive one another, to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Christ in his strength and in his Spirit, now and every day. Amen.

PRAYER FOR HEALTHCARELoving God, we give thanks for all who work within our health and social care services, for their commitment, care and sacrifice, especially in times of great challenge. May your grace without limits surround them, sustain them and continue to use them as a blessing to many others. May that same grace inspire us in our lives, for your glory. Amen.

Joan Strong, MWI President, with Wanda Hogan, Southern District MWI Vice-President.

Rebecca Snoek, MHM Ambassador.

METHODIST HOME MISSIONThe Home Mission Department exists to help districts, circuits and local societies to glorify God in every aspect of their lives.General Secretary and Ministerial Treasurer: Mark Forsyth

Lay Treasurer: Simon Kilpatrick

Project Worker: Kathryn Harte

Office Administrator: Linda McGuffin

Communications: Amy Anderson

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you for those who work in the Home Mission Department as they promote and encourage prayer, discipleship and mission in the life of the whole Church. Give them wisdom and discernment as they support existing circuits and assess new initiatives. We thank you for the growth of Pioneer Mission in recent years and we pray that you would continue to call your people to step out in faith in new and exciting ways. Bless and protect all those involved in reaching out into their communities. Amen.

Gracious Spirit, Holy Ghost, Taught by thee, we covet most, Of thy gifts at Pentecost, Holy, heavenly love. (Christopher Wordsworth, 1807-85)

14 15

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

6DUBLIN NORTH, COMPRISING SUTTON, CLONTARF AND SKERRIESA diverse church family seeking to glorify God, grow in faith and share his love with those in our communities.Superintendent Minister: Ivor Owens

Probationer Minister (Part-time): Michael Jones

Church Development and Youth Pastor: Dave Gardner

Youth Volunteer: Carissa Smith

PRAYERWe rejoice that, in all the uncertainties of life, we find in you one who is unchanging, a rock on which we can base our lives, a shield to protect us along the way, a light to guide our footsteps, and a love that fills our hearts with joy. Amen.

KILKENNY AND CARLOWTwo churches seeking to serve and share God with the wider community.Superintendent Minister: Andrew Robinson

Minister: Susan Gallagher

PRAYERLoving Father, we thank you for the ongoing ministry and mission in Kilkenny and Carlow. We thank you for the faithful witness to your limitless grace throughout Kilkenny and Carlow. At this time of transition from one minister to another, we pray that God will continue to lead and guide these communities. We thank you for the Food Pantry in Carlow and for the connection with Carlow Women’s Aid. Help the members of the circuit as they seek to live out grace without limits. Amen.

UNIVERSITY AND COLLEGE CHAPLAINSQueen’s University Belfast: Barry Forde

University of Ulster (Belfast and Jordanstown): Gail Mercer

University College Cork: Andrew Robinson

Some of the staff team at EJ-YMCA.

Trinity College Dublin.

Trinity College Dublin (Part-time): Julian Hamilton

University College Dublin: Scott Evans (C of I) pastors Methodist students

University College Galway: Helen Freeburn

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for Universities and Colleges at this time. Grant those who oversee these institutions wisdom and discernment in providing safe campuses that seeks to put staff and students first. May students grow in knowledge and understanding and may their experience of University life be undimmed by any restrictions imposed on social mobility. We pray for chaplaincies, Christian Unions, and all local churches as they seek to equip students in their faith and reach new students with the good news of Jesus Christ. In his name we pray. Amen.

MINISTRY OF HEALING COMMITTEEThe Committee exists to promote and facilitate the ministry of healing across the Connexion.Chair: Colin Duncan

Secretary: Chris Mathison

PRAYERWe acknowledge before you, heavenly Father, that Jesus is the healer and our healing ministry is his work. We ask for Jesus’ hand on the Healing Committee members and the task before them; and for all who are called into healing ministry in our Connexion. May our Connexion have a ministry of healing at its heart. We ask for the healing of all who are broken and sick, that Jesus may bind wounds and make whole bodies, minds and spirits. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: EAST JERUSALEM YMCA (EJ-YMCA)EJ-YMCA works with young people with disabilities, offering vocational training, counselling and psychosocial support.

PRAYEROur Father, we pray for our partner East Jerusalem YMCA as they are delivering your message of hope, comfort, love, justice, and peace to young people who desperately need to hear it. God Almighty, help the East Jerusalem YMCA to continue its work in the Holy Land. Help its staff and volunteers to have patience and give them the power to continue proclaiming their message so that more young people will experience life to the full. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

16 17

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

7WATERFORD – ST PATRICK’S CHURCH AND GATEWAY CENTRETo serve the present age.Superintendent Minister: Sahr Yambasu

PRAYERGod of all hope, we call on you today. Father, we pray that your will is done, and your name honoured in all that we do, say and think. We pray for our minister and all the committee members to perform their work with honesty, wisdom and integrity to accomplish your plans and purpose. We lift up all the members of the District Team who support us. We pray for our church and the communities they serve; pour out your blessings upon them. We pray for total commitment to accomplish our vision and mission as a church. We pray God’s blessing for all our children’s and families’ workers and the work they are doing. Guard us from all danger and harm and deliver us from anger that leads to division. Empower us to forgive as we have been forgiven. We pray for the growth of God’s Kingdom of peace, justice and righteousness in Waterford and its environs. We ask these prayers through Jesus Christ your Son and our Lord. Amen.

NORTH TIPPERARY, COMPRISING ROSCREA, CLOUGHJORDAN, BORRISOKANE AND SHINRONEHelping others in the community connect with Christ as we support one another with love and grace. Through this, our discipleship is strengthened, and Christ’s Kingdom grows.Superintendent Minister: Steven Foster

Retired Minister Assisting: Tom Kingston

PRAYERLiving God, we praise you for the community and heritage of Methodists in North Tipperary, and good relationships with all. Strengthen your people with renewed vision for the life of your Kingdom in this area – for our environment and people from all backgrounds. Give us boldness and wisdom as we step out in your ways and in the new things that you have for us. Bless new initiatives and open doors of hope to welcome the joy of your Kingdom here. Amen.

PORTLAOISE, COMPRISING PORTLAOISE, ATHY AND MOUNTMELLICKTo build a vibrant, grace-filled family which reaches out into the community.Superintendent Minister: Clodagh Yambasu

PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank you for your faithful people in Portlaoise, Athy and Mountmellick. Draw each and every one closer to you and inspire their worship. Shine through their serving and everyday living so that people in their families and communities notice that they are different because they spend time with you. Make them eager to explain to others the difference you make to their lives and please draw new people into their churches. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: METHODIST DEVELOPMENT & RELIEF SERVICES (MDRS)Through World Development & Relief, Irish Methodists partner with MDRS as they work with local people to develop agriculture and livelihoods. MDRS has been a WDR partner since 2012.

PRAYERFather God, thank you for the development work of the Methodist Church, Ghana through MDRS. In challenging circumstances and where poverty is widespread, we praise you for innovation, for people with skills and expertise to share, and for lives and communities transformed. God, continue to guide their work so that more people, families and communities can see their situation changed. Amen.

MISSION PARTNERS (WMP)The Rev. Dr Barry and Mrs Gillian Sloan.

Barry serves as Director of Evangelism at national level in the United Methodist Church of Germany, and as Europe Partnership Co-ordinator of the Methodist Church in Britain. Gillian (Full-time) and Barry (Part-time) are involved in “INSPIRE”, an interdenominational fresh expression of church in Chemnitz.

MDRS work with farmers in Ghana.

Gillian and Barry Sloan.

PRAYERGracious God, help us to follow you, day by day, step by step. Pour your grace into our hearts so that the fruits of the Spirit may become increasingly evident in our lives. Help us to be kind to others, to love our neighbour, and even to bless those who would make our lives more difficult. And may our witness be ever true and faithful to your gospel of love. To your glory. Amen.

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4: 16)

18 19

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

8BIRR, ATHLONE AND TULLAMOREThree small Midlands churches, building bridges into their communities.Superintendent Minister: Clodagh Yambasu

Probationer Minister (Part-time): Nigel Gill

Retired Minister Assisting: Irene Morrow

PRAYERThank you, Lord, for the promise that you will build your Church as Birr, Athlone and Tullamore continue to look to you for growth, both spiritually and physically. Thank you, gracious Father, for the blessing they have seen over the past year, filling them with hope of even greater things as they continue to serve you in their respective communities. May everyone deepen their experience of you as their heavenly Father, know you as Lord and Saviour, be empowered by the Holy Spirit and impact the lives of all they meet, to your glory. Amen.

GALWAY AND BALLINASLOE (UNITED METHODIST AND PRESBYTERIAN)The Lord God is at work in Galway! We give thanks to our Lord for his continued presence with us.Superintendent Minister: Steven Foster

Minister: Helen Freeburn (Presbyterian)

PRAYERGracious God, as you came walking on the water, you said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” and you invited Peter to come to you. Help us to follow you in these uncertain times. Give us grace to navigate through these times; give us wisdom, patience, love and light. As we meet in the building, online, in all different ways,

may our faith grow deeper and wider. May people use their gifts and be generous in their financial giving. Help us, O Lord, to draw closer to you. Amen.

CORK SOUTH AND KERRY, COMPRISING CORK, YOUGHAL, KINSALE, KILLARNEY, KENMARE AND MILLSTREETA large circuit, geographically, with six churches, and fellowship groups in Castleisland, Gneeveguilla and Cahir.Superintendent Minister: Karen Spence

Minister: Andrew Robinson

Retired Minister Assisting: Geraldine Gracie

Manager Ardfallen Grove Sheltered Housing: Cathy Murray

Lay Assistant (Youghal): Ross Barrett

PRAYERGracious God, in uncertain times we thank you that we can be certain of your grace, love and mercy. Equipping God, continue to equip these churches and fellowships to be agents of your transforming grace as they reach out to different communities with compassion. Amen.

Mhlangeni gardeners in Zimbabwe.

WDR PARTNER: DABANE WATER WORKSHOPSIn uncertain circumstances, Dabane continues to help rural communities in Zimbabwe to access clean water and develop livelihoods.

PRAYERThank you, God, that Dabane is striving to be a leading organisation dedicated to establishing water sources and food security for communities in arid and semi-arid areas. We ask for your provision for them as they seek to secure funding. God, continue to bless their programme participants, hard-working staff, Board members and Executive Committee who are dedicated to duty and service. May the Lord Almighty continue to grant them strength, despite the prevailing economic meltdown in the country. Amen.

FAITH AND ORDER COMMITTEEThe Faith and Order Committee considers the Church’s view on various issues related to our theological understanding, worship and Church order.

He giveth more grace as the burdens grow greater, He sendeth more strength as our labours increase, To added affliction he addeth more mercy, To multiplied trials his multiplied peace. His love has no limits, his grace has no measure, His power no boundary known unto men, For out of his infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth and giveth and giveth again. (Annie Johnson Flint, 1866-1932)

Joint Chairs: Tom McKnight, Hazel Loney

Convener: David Turtle

PRAYERHeavenly Father, you call your people to journey with you in every part of our daily lives. Help us, within the work of the Faith and Order Committee, to be attentive to your guidance. Grant us wisdom and insight into the matters under discussion. Help us to be led by your Spirit, in our decision-making, so that each member of the Church will be encouraged and grow in knowledge, truth and grace. Amen.

But he said to me “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12: 9)

20 21

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

9DUBLIN SOUTH (DUNDRUM)We exist to glorify the Father, Son and Holy Spirit by being loving, vibrant witnesses in our local communities and personal living.Superintendent Minister: Stephen Taylor

Chaplain, Wesley College: Nigel Mackey

Chaplain, Trinity College (Part-time): Julian Hamilton

Youth Pastor (Part-time): Andrew Mullen

Lay Pastoral Assistant (Part-time): Arun Kumar

PRAYERHeavenly Father, as we begin to emerge from the COVID-19 restrictions, we thank you for a strong local fellowship and for the vital ministry of the Food Bank. We continue to pray for those who have suffered from illness, financial loss, loneliness and stressful home situations; and for those who respond to that suffering. As the world awakes to the pervasive evil of racism, we pray to you, the God of all nations, to heal hurts and challenge sinful attitudes and behaviour within society and within your Church. Pour out your Spirit upon all flesh, so that your Word of Peace may be heard in all nations, tribes and languages. Amen.

ADARE AND BALLINGRANEA small country circuit in West Limerick.Superintendent Minister (Part-time): Ruth Watt

PRAYERWe pray for the people who worship in the Adare and Ballingrane churches. We pray that as they seek to live and worship under the influence of COVID-19 they would not be afraid to witness God’s love into their community. We pray that they would not be afraid to worship together and would not be afraid to invite others to worship with them. May the love of God overcome fear and build a stronger church in their community. We pray that God would be glorified in all the churches, homes and communities around. Amen.

WEST CORK, COMPRISING BANDON, BALLINEEN, CLONAKILTY, DRIMOLEAGUE AND SKIBBEREENIntroducing people to Jesus and making disciples through the church.Superintendent Minister: Greg Alexander

Minister: Denis Maguire

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we give thanks for the message of the gospel. We pray that each local church will understand that they are God’s means for changing the nations. We pray that each church member will grow stronger in faith and love each day and that “the Master’s Word will simply take off and race through the country to a groundswell of response.” 2 Thessalonians 3: 1 The Message). Amen.

A COVID-19 room at Wenchi Hospital.

LIMERICK (CHRIST CHURCH, PRESBYTERIAN AND METHODIST)Including the Central Building Community Project. Connecting Community Life.Superintendent Minister: Andrew Dougherty

Minister: Stephen Hancock

PRAYERGod of Transformation, remind us of your unconditional love which enables us to trust you as we continue to face change in the present and uncertainty about the future. Make the way clear as we face many transitions in our personal lives and in the life of the Church. Continue to take us by the hand and lead the way. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: WENCHI METHODIST HOSPITALWenchi Methodist Hospital continues to serve a growing population of over 120,000 around the middle part of Ghana. A WDR partner since 2006, it is a growing

institution which witnesses to God’s love through the practical care of its staff and partners.

PRAYERLoving God, we give thanks for Wenchi and its recent expansion to include a Physiotherapy Centre. We praise you for the skill and expertise of the staff; may they be a blessing to every patient they treat. We pray for those who travel from far and wide to be treated at Wenchi – keep them safe on their journeys. We pray for Bernard Botwe (Administrator) as he prepares for retirement and mentors his successor; may this be a smooth transition. Amen.For the grace of God

that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. (Titus 2: 11-12)

Gracious Spirit dwell with me, I myself would gracious be, And with words that help and heal, Would thy life in mine reveal, Would for Christ my Saviour, speak. (T.T. Lynch, 1818-71)

22 23

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

10NORTH WESTERN DISTRICTDistrict Superintendent: Stephen Skuce

District Lay Leader: David Best

The 25 circuits in the North Western District have a lot of differences due to being spread across much of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and ranging from rural communities to towns and cities. But we are united in our desire to share the good news of Jesus and help people become his followers. We don’t find this easy but are committed to sharing and living out the gospel so that others can discover God’s love.

PRAYERGod our Father, we thank you for how you have blessed us in the past. We pray that we may have purpose and unity of mind and heart as we look to the future. May we be open to the prompting of your Holy Spirit and listen to one another as we seek to see your Kingdom extended in our churches. Enable us to be a people of hope who share our stories with those who do not know Jesus. Amen.

ENNISKILLEN, COMPRISING ENNISKILLEN, KNOCKNINNY, FLORENCECOURT, LETTERBREEN AND BLACKLIONSeeking to be biblical, God-honouring and Kingdom-expanding servants.Superintendent Minister: Lorna Dreaning

Minister: Sam Livingstone

PRAYERWe pray for the Fermanagh area, especially Enniskillen circuit and area; for its return to God and not to a building; for those struggling with depression and loss. We continue to pray for those grieving, and for the economic climate which affects many of our congregations. Most of all we pray for protection and vision. Open our eyes and let us see Jesus: his healing, his power, his love and his abundant mercy and grace. Lead us on with yourself, Lord Jesus. May we know your guidance. Amen.

SPRINGFIELD AND CHURCH HILL, INCLUDING DERRYGONNELLYWe seek to follow God wherever he leads us; sharing his love on this journey as we travel it together.Superintendent Minister: Sam Livingstone

Lay Pastoral Assistant: Roy Dreaning

PRAYERDear Lord Jesus, we thank you for your mercy, love and grace over the past years, and we praise you that you are still merciful, loving and gracious. We lift up the societies of Derrygonnelly, Church Hill and Springfield to you, and ask that in your mercy love and grace you would come and move in all our hearts and draw us closer to you, that you would step into the lives that don’t know you personally, and bring them to saving faith. This we ask solely for your glory and for the praise of your name. Amen.

THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (UMC) POLANDWorld Mission Partnership is helping each of MCI’s district to develop a link with a world church. The North Western District is linked with the United Methodist Church Poland.

PRAYERThank you, Father God, for our global relationships and connections. Today we pray for our brothers and sisters in Poland. We pray for the children in their Church; may they grow in the knowledge of your grace and love so that they would transform this world as they grow. Thank you for UMC’s ministry with the elderly and those who are unwell. Lord God, we pray that your name will be glorified through it. As the Church consider their outreach and growth, grant them wisdom, insight and direction. In your name, Lord. Amen.

David Best.

Stephen Skuce.

District Superintendent the Rev. Dr Stephen Skuce (centre) with district partners from Poland, the Revs Andrzej Malicki (left) and Slawomir Rodaszyński.

Joshua McRoberts, Youth Ambassador.

24 25

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

11FIVEMILETOWN, COMPRISING FIVEMILETOWN, CLABBY AND CREAGHA three-church circuit who seek to serve God by showing his love to others, to share his good news in all that we do, in reaching out and connecting with the communities around us.Superintendent Minister: Janet Rossall

PRAYERLoving God, we thank you for the way you have guided us this past year, especially through the difficulties and pain of the coronavirus pandemic. At the start of this Connexional year we pray that we may know your guiding hand on Fivemiletown Circuit, as we seek to reach out to those in our local communities. May we learn from, and praise you for, what is past and trust you for all that is to come. Amen.

PETTIGO AND IRVINESTOWNSeeking to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, to bring hope, encourage personal faith and use their gifts to build up the ministry of the Church and serve the community.Superintendent Minister: George Bowes

PRAYERGracious God, thank you for your blessing through all the difficulties of the past year. We ask that you continue to nurture the desire to share the good news of Jesus amongst us, encourage hope in us and through us, that personal faith is gladly developed and faithfully expressed by us, and all our gifts used willingly and well in the ministry of the Church, local and connexional, and in the service of our community. We pray these things for the glory of your name. Amen.

Mannorhamilton Methodist Church.

BALLINAMALLARD AND TRILLICKSeeking to grow in faith, love and unity and to follow Christ as he leads us into mission.Superintendent Minister: John Beacom

Youth Worker: Naomi Armstrong

PRAYERHeavenly Father we thank you for your love and faithfulness, which is evident in all we see. May we give to you our continual praise and seek to honour you in our daily lives and live according to your Word. Lord, we pray for the continued mission in our village as we seek to move out into the community to show the love of Jesus. May you continue to open doors, break down barriers and unite divided communities so that the love of the Lord Jesus Christ can be experienced in all its power. Amen.

Sewing class at Phakamisa.

NORTH CONNACHT AND LONGFORD, COMPRISING SLIGO, MANORHAMILTON, COLLOONEY, BALLINA, LONGFORD, DRUMSHANBO AND BOYLETo share the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and his gifts in the church and community.Superintendent Minister: Jeremy Nicoll

Minister: Christiaan Snell (Church of Ireland), (Part-time)

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you for your continuing faithfulness and protection to us in our large circuit of churches. Help us to be a courageous people in sharing your love to those around us in our diverse communities. We thank you for new mission opportunities and we pray that you would be glorified as we use our gifts, our weaknesses and our strengths in your service. Jesus, bless the young and old in our churches; strengthen our relationships with one another, enabling us by your Spirit to learn from each other as we work together for you. In your precious name. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: PHAKAMISAPhakamisa serves local impoverished communities through pre-school education as well as offering support for caregivers of orphans and those affected by, and infected with, HIV and AIDS.

PRAYERThe earth is yours, Lord, and everyone in it. Today we turn our hearts and minds to South Africa and pray for our WDR partner, Phakamisa. God, we praise you for their ministry amongst children, caregivers and wider communities. Thank you, God, for the lives that have been changed by their work. We pray for their Director, Thokozani Poswa, and ask that you continue to give her wisdom as she leads. In your name we pray. Amen.

If you are weary in the waiting, Take whatever strength you have left, And run to the shore of grace. Arrive broken, burdened, Carrying your tapestry made of worries, And be willing and ready, To lay it all down, At the feet of Jesus. (Morgan Harper Nicholls, 1990-)

26 27

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

12THE BOARD OF MINISTRY, LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENTThe Board of Ministry, Learning and Development oversees and co-ordinates the Church’s strategy for ministry development for all, lay and ordained. It organises opportunities for theological learning and study, it seeks to develop and inspire people to serve in and through the Church and manages the Church’s formal selection procedures.Chair: David Best

Director of Ministry: John Alderdice

Principal: Janet Unsworth

Learning and Development Officer: Grace McGurk

Operations Administrator: James McClure

Learning Resources Officer: Lindsay McAlinden

First Year Students: Jackie McNair, Richard Wright

Returning Students: Tanita Lee, Leah McKibben, Peter Morris, Philip Patterson

PRAYERLord, we ask for your guidance as the Board supports the lay and ordained ministry of our Church in its discernment and equipping of people. We thank you for your direction last year as the Board introduced a number of changes for improving how it operates and its effective use of resources. We pray for the Board this year that they will make wise decisions as they address the evolving needs of different areas of congregational life ministry. We pray for those who lead and teach in the College and for all who attend courses, both ministerial and lay. We thank you for the gifts our people have, and we pray that we all will be open to learn and be creative in how we share the good news of the gospel with others. Amen.

LOCAL PREACHERSThe office of Local Preacher has been interwoven into the fabric of the Methodist Church since the early days of John and Charles Wesley. Local preachers are members of the Methodist Church who have been accredited to preach God’s word and lead his people in worship. When the Methodist Church in Ireland authorises someone to undertake this ministry it does so, based on evidence that the person concerned has the call, competence and character to serve God’s people in this way. Local preachers have played and continue to play a significantly important role in the life and ministry of the Methodist Church in Ireland. We continue to value our relationship with the Edgehill College training staff and appreciate their considerable contribution to the training of Local Preachers.Ministerial Secretary: Mervyn G. Ewing

Lay Secretary: Tom Wilson

North Eastern District Secretary: David Rodgers

North Western District Secretary: Anne Scott

Southern District Secretary: Heather Browne

Ordination Formation Group. Front (L-R): Tanita Lee and Leah McKibben. Back (L-R): Peter Morris, Susan Gallagher and Philip Patterson.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, you have called each one of us to be your hands and voice here on earth. Help those who have taken the same path as the disciples of old to boldly proclaim the good news of Christ’s sacrifice for us. May Local Preachers hold firm to the teaching of the Bible, listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and follow, to the best of their ability, the example set by your Son, Jesus. Show your power through their weakness and your compassion and mercy with their failings and faults. May they depend on you entirely, follow you closely and be a light to guide others to you through the work of your Spirit in their hearts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

SABBATICAL COMMITTEESabbaticals are a gift from the Church to its ministers. They enable ministers to receive space and time for renewal for themselves and their ministry.

PRAYERLord, we pray for all those who are taking a sabbatical this year. We ask your blessing on them and their families as they rest, have different experiences and are re-energised for your work. Bless those who take up responsibility when ministers are absent; may they find joy in serving you in this way. Amen.

District Local Preachers’ Secretaries on Zoom call.

28 29

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

13LISBELLAW, MAGUIRESBRIDGE AND TEMPOSeeking to glorify God through worship, strengthening community relationships and deepening our experience of God in daily life.Superintendent Minister: Stephen Skuce

PRAYERGracious God, we give you thanks for the life and witness of our three congregations. We give thanks that we experience God’s presence and power in both good and difficult times. We pray that we might have the confidence to share our faith with those around us, welcome the stranger and be communities where all find support, fellowship and full life in Jesus. Amen.

UPPER ERNE, COMPRISING BROOKEBOROUGH, LISNASKEA, NEWTOWNBUTLER, DRUMADY, CORLESPRATTEN AND TULLYBOYThrough prayer and reading of his Word, grow deeper with God. Through loving actions, share God’s grace to those beyond our church families in local society and globally.Superintendent Minister: Eleanor Hayden

Probationer Minister: Daphne Hanna

PRAYERLoving God, we give you praise and thanks for your enduring grace to your servants on the Upper Erne Circuit. In this time of change, we pray that your Spirit would move among us, encouraging and inspiring all believers to lead others to you. We pray for those in leadership on the circuit, that they may receive the wisdom and discernment needed to grow God’s Kingdom in this land. Amen.

METHODIST HISTORICAL SOCIETYPreserving the past to inform the present and shape the future.President: Ian Henderson

Vice-President: Norman Taggart

Secretary: Jennifer Stutt

Treasurers: Derek and Trudy Reid

Archivist and Editor: Robin Roddie

PRAYERThank you, Heavenly Father, for the richness of our inherited faith and witness, especially for those through whose character and example we have been led to Christ. May we keep the lamp of faith burning brightly in the present so that it will influence others today, and in the future, to commit their lives to the Lord of Lords. Amen.

METHODIST RESIDENTIAL AND NURSING HOMESEastwell, Margaretholme, Kirk House, Ailt an Óir, Mount Tabor, Embury Close and Ardfallen Grove all exist to provide a caring sheltered environment for older people of any denomination where a sense of independence can be maintained, and support is provided as it is needed.

PRAYERWe thank you, Lord, for all the wonderful work that is carried out in Residential and Nursing Homes around this island. We pray for the staff and residents that they will know your presence with them, especially in the sad and difficult times. We thank you for loving caring people who show your love day by day and ask that you would continue to bless all these communities. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

METHODIST CHILD CARE SOCIETYMinisterial Secretary and Treasurer: David Sweeney

Lay Treasurer: Margaret Copeland

The Rev. Daphne Hanna.

European Methodism: conference in Estonia.

PRAYERDear Lord Jesus, you showed great compassion and care towards those who were needy. Help us, who have been blessed with plenty, to generously support the Society as it helps those families who have very little. We pray that you will grant wisdom to Dave and Margaret regarding the finances of the Society and decisions about payments to families. May those who receive help know your love and your blessing. Amen.

THE METHODIST CHURCH, ITALYThere are over 4,000 Italian Methodists, in about 50 congregations spread all over the country.

PRAYERGod of grace, today we pray for the Methodist Church in Italy. As their country recovers from the coronavirus pandemic, we pray that the Church will be a source of hope, comfort and compassion. We pray for their communities and ask, God of mercy, that you will pour out your blessing on their relationships. God of love, be near to those who were affected by the virus; may they know you close to them. Amen.

30 31

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

14THE COVENANT COUNCILThe Covenant Council is the joint working body which oversees the implementation of the Covenant made between the Church of Ireland and the Methodist Church in 2002.Co-Chairs: Bishop Michael Burrows, the Rev. Dr Heather Morris

PRAYERLoving God, as we journey together in our covenant relationship, we pray that your Holy Spirit will enable us to learn and grow together in a spirit of unity and mission. In all things, may we seek first your Kingdom. Amen.

MINISTERS WHO ARE UNDERTAKING SPECIALIST WORKDerek Johnston, who serves as Lead Chaplain with Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.Gary Mason, who works with “Rethinking Conflict”.Phil Meadows, who is Director of the Inspire Movement.John Wonnacott, who serves as the Specialist Palliative Care Chaplain in the Macmillian Unit, Antrim Area Hospital.David Rock, who works with The Big House.

MINISTERS WHO HAVE PERMISSION TO SERVE WITH OTHER CONFERENCESMethodist Church in Britain: Mark Liddicoat, William Mullally, John Purdy

RETIRED MINISTERS FELLOWSHIPA full list of retired ministers and widows may be found in the Minutes of Conference.Chairperson: Alan Meara

Secretary: Ken Lindsay

PRAYEROur Father, we give thanks for the fellowship shared over the past year. But in recognising that most of the participants are in the over-70 age group, and are considered vulnerable, we pray for the future of the group. The last meeting of the last session in March having been cancelled, it has been felt unwise to plan a programme for the immediate future. We pray for guidance as to when meetings can resume. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: KOPILA-NEPALKopila-Nepal works amongst single mothers and widows of the Dalit community and lower castes in rural areas.

A self-help group run by Kopila-Nepal.The Surf Project led a camp in Senegal.

PRAYERFather, we thank you for the strength of so many women; strength which somehow enables them to survive; strength which helps them protect and do the best for their children; strength which enables them to maintain hope. Bless the Kopila team as they facilitate self-help groups to learn about their rights, grow in confidence, educate their children and start small businesses. May these women and their families flourish and know that they are loved. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: CHURCH LAND PROGRAMME (CLP)CLP works to affirm, learn from and journey with those who are systematically excluded and impoverished in their struggles related to land and justice. Through WDR, Irish Methodists have been partnering with CLP since 2014.

David Ntseng, Programme Manager at CLP.

PRAYERMerciful and gracious God, thank you for your love; thank you for life; thank you for the strength that you continue to give us, especially when we feel overwhelmed by this world’s injustices. Help us to show love and mercy to one another, just as you do to all of us. Continue to guide us on this journey of walking, listening and giving of ourselves. Use us as beacons of hope. In your precious name, we pray. Amen.

32 33

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

15NORTH WEST METHODIST MISSION (NWMM), COMPRISING CARLISLE ROAD, CLOONEY HALL, GLACKNADRUMMOND, WHITECASTLE, LIMAVADY, NEWBUILDINGS, STRABANE AND THE MEN’S HOSTEL FOR HOMELESS MEN AND CLARENDON SHELTER FOR WOMENThe NWMM Circuit is a united and living community of churches who seek to respond to the needs of others through our work in the Men’s Hostel and in Clarendon Shelter.Superintendent Minister: Richard Johnston

Minister: Alison Gallagher

Deacon: Marlene Skuce

Pioneer Mission Leaders: Paul and Paula Gallucci

Retired Ministers Assisting: Noel Fallows, Geoff Hewitt

Mission Director: Liam Milligan

PRAYERDear God, thank you for all your blessings, your spiritual guidance, and care and love. We pray for our “front line services” who are caring for those affected by COVID-19. You know what each of us is experiencing, our worries, and concerns; please help us always to share your love and care with others, especially currently. We ask you to give comfort to the dying and love to those who feel unloved. Bless all those who care for the needy and the homeless and help us all to encourage one another to become better disciples for you. Help us to continue to grow as a circuit, adopt new ways of worshipping and continually work for you as your people on earth. Amen.

Moville new church hall.

The Farmer family who serve in South East Asia.

CASTLEDERG, COMPRISING, CASTLEDERG, LISLEEN, CAVANDORAGH AND AGHYARANTo connect people to Jesus Christ and to bring the community together in his love.Superintendent Minister: John Montgomery

PRAYERDear Lord, we pray for the societies, members and all those involved with the work, witness and ministry on the Castlederg circuit. We thank you Lord, for their history and heritage; now, may your peace and love be evident in each society and throughout the circuit. Bless the congregations. May Jesus be the name on everyone’s lips as they meet, worship, and witness within their communities. Bless the leaders of the circuit and the church councils. Lord, increase your Kingdom on the Castlederg circuit. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: CHRISTIAN AID IRELANDThrough its sister agency, Christian Aid Ireland, WDR supports work in Latin America which seeks to tackle climate change.

PRAYERCreator God, you loved the world into life. Forgive us when we pursue a future shaped by anything but a Kingdom of justice and peace. Incarnate God, you taught us to speak out for what is right. Make us content with nothing less than a world where poverty shall be no more. Breath of God, let there be abundant life. Inspire us with the vision of a world without poverty, and give us the faith, courage and will to make it happen. Amen.

METHODIST CHURCH IN BRITAIN (MCB) MISSION PARTNERAlthough there is particular interest in Methodist mission partners from Ireland, there are many others who go out from the joint mission partner programme of the Methodist Churches in Britain and Ireland.

PRAYERLoving God, we think of our Methodist mission partners who have followed your call to minister and witness around the world. Grant wisdom, strength and guidance as they live their lives for you in the places to which you have called them. Father, we ask that your hand will be on them, your peace will surround them, and your voice will continue to guide them. May they know your presence with them today. Amen.

From the fulness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. (John 1: 16)

34 35

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

16OMAGH AND FINTONA, COMPRISING OMAGH, FINTONA, DRUMQUIN, MAYNE AND TOGHERDOOWe want the life and work of our five churches to bring glory to God, who always invites us to become involved with him in his work, rather than for our own satisfaction or gain.Superintendent Minister: Eleanor Hayden

Lay Pastoral Assistant: Gareth Hayden

PRAYERLoving God, you call us to shine like stars in the world, to shed light like a lamp set upon a lampstand. Help us, and all your Church, to fulfil that calling, through our words, our actions, our living and our loving, to speak something of what we have received from you. We thank you for the generosity and kindness of people and we celebrate the many who work behind the scenes, quietly and faithfully contributing to the life of mission and worship, exercising roles of leadership, in authentic discipleship. Almighty God, give us a true concern for all, a genuine awareness of the wider fellowship to which we belong, and a real openness to one another and our world. In the name of Christ. Amen.

DONEGAL, BALLINTRA AND INVERAs a circuit we seek to engage with one another and the local community through faithful worship, prayer and Bible study, youth ministry, engagement with schools and inter-church discipleship and worship.Superintendent Minister: John Montgomery

Retired Minister Assisting: Ian Henderson

PRAYERFather, thank you for all that you have given Donegal, Ballintra and Inver over the years. Thank you for faithfulness to worship you, generosity in giving to you and those you love around the world, and togetherness in fellowship with you. Thank you for signs of new life and fresh growth. Grant the circuit a new awakening through the Holy Spirit that would enliven weary bodies and enable nervous souls. Remind them of the sufficiency of your grace in Christ and the supremacy of your rule. Inspire within the people of Donegal, Ballintra and Inver a passion to share your truth and show your love. Help them, Lord, to follow you and be known as yours – a light on a hill and salt in their part of this world. Amen.

DUNKINEELY AND ARDARATwo churches in South West Donegal who follow Christ’s example of prayer and service, reaching out to all ages.Superintendent Minister: Desmond Davis

PRAYERWe come before you with a note of praise for all that you have done for us in the past year, your continued faithfulness. We thank you for the Body of Christ in which you have placed us. We pray for your continued rich

Members of the Omagh circuit with the ex-President, the Rev. Sam McGuffin.

blessing upon us as a people and those with whom we rub shoulders daily. May your Kingdom be established within our villages, our townlands and our homes. We pray this in the almighty and lovely name of Jesus. Amen.

PORTADOWN, COMPRISING THOMAS STREET, EDENDERRY MEMORIAL, EPWORTH, MAHON, BATTLEHILL AND DERRYANVILLEThe Portadown Circuit consists of three churches in Portadown and three in the surrounding area, each one reaching out to its community.Superintendent Minister: Alan Wardlow

Ministers: Sharon Connor, Darrin Thompson

Retired Ministers Assisting: Shaun Cleland, Kenneth Robinson, Clive Webster

Circuit Youth Pastor: Jackie Whittle

God of grace, I turn my face to you, I cannot hide; My nakedness, my shame, My guilt, are all before your eyes. Strivings and all anguished dreams in rags lie at my feet, And only grace provides, The way for me to stand complete. And your grace clothes me in righteousness, And your mercy covers me in love, Your life adorns and beautifies; I stand complete in you. (Chris Bowater, 1947-)

PRAYERLord we pray for every society on the Portadown Circuit. May you give us inspiration and wisdom as we navigate these challenging days. We thank God for the past, your presence in the present and ask for your protection and guidance for the future. Amen.

Let nothing disturb thee, Nothing affright thee, All things are passing, God never changes! Patient endurance attaineth, To all things, Who God possesses, In nothing is wanting; Alone God sufficeth. (Celtic Daily Prayer)

Grace of God the Father, Grace of God the Son, Grace of God the Spirit, Blessed Three in One. (The Rev. Tom Jones, 1819-82)

36 37

DISTRICTS IN THE CONNEXION

SOUTHERN DISTRICT

NORTH WESTERN DISTRICT

NORTH EASTERN DISTRICT

Dublin South City, (Centenary, Leeson Park, Dublin Korean Church and Rathgar)Dublin Central Mission (Abbey Street)Dublin NorthDublin South (Dundrum)Dublin (Sandymount Christ Church – United Presbyterian and Methodist)South East LeinsterKilkenny and Carlow

WaterfordPortlaoiseNorth TipperaryGalway and BallinasloeBirr, Athlone and TullamoreCork South and KerryWest CorkLimerickAdare and Ballingrane

EnniskillenSpringfield and Church HillLisbellaw, Maguiresbridge and TempoUpper ErneFivemiletownPettigo and IrvinestownBallinamallard and TrillickNorth Connacht and LongfordLondonderry, Inishowen, Limavady and StrabaneCastledergOmagh and FintonaDonegal, Ballintra and Inver

Dunkineely and ArdaraPortadownNewryCharlemont and CranagillDungannonCookstown and South DerryArmaghAughnacloy and MonaghanLurganGlenavy and MoiraMaghaberryTandragee and RichhillBanbridge and Donaghcloney

ColeraineNewtownabbey Mission (incorporating North Belfast Mission, Rathcoole, Glengormley, Whiteabbey, The Church of the Good Shepherd Monkstown, Greencastle, Mossley)BallyclareCarrickfergus (Whitehead and Greenisland)LarneAntrimBallymenaCullybackeyNorth BelfastBelfast South and CentralBelfast (Greater Shankill, Woodvale, Shankill and Glencairn)

Belfast (Ballynafeigh, Knockbreda, Belvoir and Cairnshill)Belfast (Mountpottinger and Bloomfield)Belfast (Cregagh and Glenburn)East Belfast MissionBelfast (Sydenham)Belfast (Knock and Dundonald)Belfast (Finaghy and Seymour Hill)Bangor and HolywoodDonaghadeeNewtownards, Movilla Abbey and ComberGlastry and PortaferryBallynahinchDundrum, Newcastle and DownpatrickLisburn and Dromore (including Magheragall, Broomhedge, Priesthill and Trinity)

38 39

Haiti

Chile

BoliviaPeru

Venezuela

Latvia

Lithuania

Germany

Ibiza

Syria

Lebanon

Ghana

Nigeria

Sudan

Zambia

South Africa

Zimbabwe

Uganda

Kenya

Afghanistan

Sri Lanka

Nepal

Cambodia

Upper Myanmar

Kazakhstan

Papua New Guinea

Burundi

Togo

Poland

United Kingdom

Ethiopia

Austria

Israel

Palestine

India

WORLD MISSION

40 41

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

17NEWRY, COMPRISING NEWRY, BESSBROOK AND WARRENPOINTA circuit grounded in prayer as the most powerful weapon that God has given us.Superintendent Minister: Stephen Skuce

Minister: Annie Deche

PRAYERGracious Lord, in a world where right and wrong are frequently confused and the future is so uncertain, it can be hard to know how to pray or what to ask for when difficult circumstances arise. But one thing we know, with absolute certainty, is that God’s plan is good for those united in his love, and the safest place we can be is in the centre of his will, where “grace without limits” is our expectation in the year ahead. Amen.

CHARLEMONT AND CRANAGILL INCLUDING TULLYROANSuperintendent Minister: Harold Agnew

Minister (Part-time): Bob Thomas

Lay Pastoral Assistant: Kenneth Twyble

PRAYEROur God, we pray your blessing on the Moy society as they move to the Dungannon circuit. We pray for Bob Thomas as he moves back to Ireland to take up position as a part-time minister on our circuit. May the Spirit of the living God fall afresh on us, to break us, melt us, mould us and fill us. May you bring new spiritual life and fresh purpose as we seek to live out our lives as everyday disciples of Jesus. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

LURGAN, COMPRISING HIGH STREET, LURGAN, QUEEN STREET, LURGAN, BALLINACORR, BLUESTONE AND BANNFOOTAn urban/rural circuit of five churches in the Lurgan/Craigavon area.Superintendent Minister: Harold Agnew

Minister: George Abbs

Lay Pastor: Geoffrey Robinson

Youth Pastor: Mark Hand

PRAYERGracious God, thank you for your presence during this pandemic season, teaching us to depend on you in new and fresh ways. In the midst of this crisis, as we have felt stressed out and worried, we hear the words of Jesus saying to us, “Come to me. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.” Lord, as we adapt to a “new normal”, lead and guide us by your Spirit; help us to see you more clearly, love you more dearly, follow you more nearly day by day. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

GLENAVY AND MOIRA, COMPRISING GLENAVY, MOIRA AND CRAIGMORESuperintendent Minister: Philip Gallagher

PRAYERDear God, we thank you for your goodness to us in so many ways. We thank you that we have experienced numerical and spiritual growth in and through outreach and ministry in our new building in Moira. We are glad that Glenavy congregation continues to be a pillar of strength to many in its community and a blessing through Youtube services and other means of communication. Thank you that Craigmore, through Zoom, have shared weekly prayer meetings, Bible studies, and Sunday morning services. Continue to bless this circuit, we pray. Amen.

THE LAY WITNESS MOVEMENTThe Movement is a fellowship of ordinary people of all ages and backgrounds who share their personal experience of Jesus. Members come together in teams to visit churches, all by invitation, for a weekend of praise and personal witness to what it means to be a follower of Christ in today’s world.Steering Group: Shirley Alexander, Phill Clarke, Laura Griffith, Bruce Mullen, Tom Wilson

PRAYERFather, we thank you for the ongoing blessings received in the recent mission in Banbridge. We pray that the congregation would continue to be blessed as you lead them forward. We pray for the teams and congregations during the weekends planned in Ballynahinch and Moville this Autumn and we pray that other congregations would consider holding such a mission. Amen.

GLOBAL RELATIONSHIPSThe Global Relationships Team (Methodist Church Britain) work across the globe to strengthen global and local links.

PRAYERAlmighty God, we thank you for your Church around the world in all its diversity. May your Holy Spirit guide us as we seek to strengthen friendship and fellowship with partner Churches and organisations overseas. May our programmes and partnerships create opportunities for people to learn from one another, to rejoice in the different ways you are at work around the world, and to be encouraged in our shared mission to the world. Amen.

CHURCH IN CHAINSTogether with Church in Chains, World Mission Partnership has produced a prayer booklet to equip Irish Methodists to pray for the persecuted church.

PRAYEROur Father, we pray for Church in Chains as it seeks to be an Irish voice for persecuted Christians worldwide. Please bless its work of raising awareness, encouraging prayer, advocating with governments and embassies and sending aid to help Christians who are persecuted because of their faith in countries such as China, Eritrea, India, Iran, Nigeria and Pakistan. We ask you to grant wisdom to its staff and volunteers and to sustain and protect them. Amen.

What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer, There is no more for heaven now to give, He is my joy, my righteousness, my freedom, My steadfast love, my deep and lasting peace… (City Alight Team – St. Paul’s, Sydney)

He left His Father’s throne above, So free, so infinite His grace, Emptied himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race. Tis mercy all, immense and free, For, O my God, it found out me. (Charles Wesley, 1707-88)

Methodist Church Ghana.

42 43

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

18DUNGANNON, COMPRISING DUNGANNON, LAGHEY, CASTLECAULFIELD, NEWTOWNKELLY AND MOYDungannon is a closely-knit circuit which now includes the Moy society. Here faithful congregations meet each Sunday to worship and pray and the premises are in constant use as we seek to serve others and glorify God.Superintendent Minister: William Newell

Lay Evangelist: Andrew Witherall

PRAYERDear loving, heavenly Father, we give thanks for your many blessings upon us as a church family. We thank you for the gift of technology which has enabled us to reach out beyond our church walls. We pray that we may be a blessing to one another and ask for wisdom as we seek to be effective agents for the Kingdom of God. We pray that the leaders and members of the various organisations that meet in our premises will know your blessing, so that the name of Jesus will be glorified. Amen.

COOKSTOWN AND SOUTH DERRYSuperintendent Minister: Rowan Zeelie

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for the people of Cookstown and Magherafelt Methodist Churches. In the uncertainty of what the future looks like, may they know that you go before them, calling them to the places you want them to be. We ask you to give their leaders wisdom, discernment and courage as they lead your people into these new places, and as they do so, may they boldly go and make disciples. Amen.

ARMAGH, COMPRISING ARMAGH, KILLYLEA AND KILLYMADDYSuperintendent Minister: Louise Donald

PRAYERAbba, Father, we praise you that you are the same yesterday, today and forever and that your grace, through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, is without limits to all who would call on his name. Help us to have ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the Churches as you call us into the new thing you are doing. Give us willing spirits to “cast our cares upon you”, that we may be released from our fears and, with the Spirit of boldness, step, with willing hearts, into your perfect will, in your strength. May we have “beautiful feet” that take the good news of Jesus as Saviour where you guide us. Help us live in the reality of “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your path.” as we pilgrim through the new uncertain terrain ahead with the One who said, “I am with you always.” To your honour and glory. Amen.

AUGHNACLOY AND MONAGHANA cross-border circuit made up of a society in Monaghan town, along with the Tyrone societies of Aughnacloy and Ballynanny.Superintendent Minister: Rowan Zeelie

Retired Ministers Assisting: Ken Lindsay, Ken Robinson

PRAYERWe give thanks for the continued witness and active leadership of the small, scattered congregations in Aughnacloy, Ballynanny and Monaghan. We thank God for encouraging drive-in services during the emergency, the midweek Bible Study with up to 18 attending, the active bowling club, and the midweek children’s ministry in the Friends of God (FOG) Club. We give thanks for the fellowship engendered in the monthly coffee bar in Ballynanny. We pray that the recent insulation of the Monaghan church will encourage more participation in the Methodist congregation and in Shalom Fellowship which shares the building. Amen.

MINISTERS SERVING WITH THE ARMED FORCESRoyal Navy: Richard Rowe

Royal Air Force: Colin Weir, Philip Corrigan, John Mbayo

Ballynanny Drive-In Church.

Castlecaulfield Methodist Church.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you for those who serve you as chaplains in the armed forces. We ask that you might guide and direct their paths always. Help each chaplain to share you with everyone they meet, by their example and their words. We pray that you will be with their families as they face the challenges of separation and changes to everyday life and that they may know your peace. Amen.

The Ex-President, the Rev. Sam McGuffin, with the Rev. John Mbayo (left) and the Rev. Philip Corrigan, chaplains to the R.A.F.

44 45

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

19MAGHABERRY (THE CHURCH ON THE HILL, COVENANT CHURCH)The Church on the Hill is a covenant church between the Methodist Church and the Church of Ireland, serving the expanding village of Maghaberry.Superintendent Minister: Harold Agnew

Minister: Clare Kakuru (Church of Ireland)

Retired Minister Assisting: Ken Lindsay

PRAYERFather God, we thank you for the blessing of our covenant relationship and for the unity we share. May your Spirit continue to guide us as we seek, together, to build faith and build community in the village of Maghaberry. As the Church on the Hill, may we be a light on the hill, reaching out with your love and drawing others to Jesus. Amen.

TANDRAGEE, RICHHILL AND MARKETHILLSuperintendent Minister: Nick McKnight

Retired Minister Assisting: Clive Webster

PRAYER“Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, God of Jacob” (Psalm 24): Our Father, we are thankful that the gospel proclaims that you are among us and can be intimately known. Forgive us that, even despite such incredible news, we too often turn our eyes away from you. Raise up a Church that will be described as “the generation of those who seek him”, a people who understand that prayer is not about getting answers but getting more of you. Amen.

BANBRIDGE AND DONAGHACLONEYBanbridge Circuit consists of three churches: one in Banbridge town and two rural churches in Donaghcloney and Blackskull.Superintendent Minister: Andrew Gibson

PRAYERLord, we thank you for continuing closer relationships across the circuit. We thank you for the success of our Lay Witness Weekend in Banbridge last year. We pray for our 150th Anniversary in May 2021 and our ongoing preparations for this special milestone. We thank you for the continuing work of “Donaghcloney Together” and the events that have taken place. May the gospel seeds planted come to fruition in your time. Finally, we give you thanks for the Good News Club and Gospel Hour, meeting weekly in Blackskull, that are blessing many in our community. Continue to bless and guide our circuit, Lord. Amen.

CONNEXIONAL FINANCE COMMITTEEThe Connexional Finance Committee reviews the accounts for each department in receipt of an allocation

Banbridge Methodist Church: 150 years old in May 2021.

from the Comprehensive Assessment and establishes the amount to be allocated to each department in the succeeding year. The Committee recommends to Conference the total amount to be collected as Comprehensive Assessment. The Committee also reviews the Report and Accounts for the Methodist Church in Ireland and recommends to Conference that the Report and Accounts should be approved and that the President and the Secretary of Conference sign the Report and Accounts.Chairperson: Harold Baird

Secretary: Bill Parkinson

Chief Financial Officer: Gillian Laney

PRAYERLoving God, we pray for your guidance for the Connexional Finance Committee and for all the volunteer treasurers in the societies, circuits, Connexional departments and Missions. We pray for understanding when the Committee meets to identify the financial needs of each department and that the resulting Comprehensive Assessment will be manageable and equitable, thus enabling the mission of your Church at Connexional and local level to be worthy of our loving God. Amen.

Hearing assessments at FAID.

WDR PARTNER: FATHER ANDEWEG INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF (FAID)FAID is a Christian School in Beirut, Lebanon, catering for children who are deaf or hard of hearing, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or wealth. A WDR partner for over ten years, FAID are working increasingly “beyond their walls” with a growing refugee community.

PRAYERAlmighty God, we give you thanks for your love for Father Andeweg Institute for the Deaf. We pray for all the deaf, young and old, entrusted to their care, especially the deaf Syrian refugees and their families: may your peace strengthen them. Enlighten the staff and accompany them in their service towards those in their care. We pray for Lebanon; for peace and for its leaders; help them make wise decisions that the economy will recover and that the school will be able to keep paying all the wages. Amen.

Oh! that the world might taste and see, The riches of his grace, The arms of love that compass me, Would all mankind embrace. (Charles Wesley, 1707-88)

46 47

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

20NORTH EASTERN DISTRICTLike Churches across this island, the NE District has been reacting to and thinking through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been amazing to see the creative, spiritual and practical responses that have deepened discipleship, pastoral care and mission. There have also been the very sad contexts of loss and grief that have affected so many. As we look to this coming year our prayer is that we shall be able to know the comfort that comes from God and the grace that is enough for every circumstance.

Churches across the district have shown a remarkable ability to embrace change and the hope is that this will continue. The pandemic has sharpened societal realisation that there is more to life than materialism and

busyness; the need for a spirituality that makes sense is clear. Our prayer is that all of us will hear what the Spirit is saying to his Church; that we shall keep in step with the Spirit, and that we shall be enabled by the power of the Spirit to be God’s people for this time and for this generation.District Superintendent: Philip Agnew

District Lay Leader: Tom Wilson

Minister working under the direction of the District Superintendent: Louise McKee

PRAYERFather God, in response to this pandemic you are calling us to a closer walk with you. In our need we are rediscovering the nature of depending upon your grace. In our being you are challenging us to love our neighbour in ways that bring Jesus into the heart of all our relationships. By the power of the Holy Spirit send us out into this needy world to be agents of love and transformation. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us. Amen.

COLERAINE, PORTRUSH, PORTSTEWART AND BALLYMONEYFour societies, one circuit, located on the splendid North Coast area. This is an area which remains a popular holiday destination for young and old alike. Our aim is to offer the unlimited grace of God to all, be they members, people from the local communities or visitors to the area.Superintendent Minister: Thomas Stevenson

Retired Ministers Assisting: Lee Glenny, Jo Sweeney

Serving on the circuit with The Surf Project: Jono, Ken, René and team

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we live surrounded by the beauty of your creation, the splendour of hills and glens and the wonders of the ocean; we praise you for your unlimited grace towards us in times of change and challenge. We pray that you pour out the Holy Spirit upon our societies and The Surf Project, so that all may experience your equipping and empowering for the tasks and ministries you have set before us, as we seek to serve the present age. Amen.

NEWTOWNABBEY METHODIST MISSION, COMPRISING NORTH BELFAST MISSION RATHCOOLE, WHITEABBEY, GLENGORMLEY, GREENCASTLE, MOSSLEY AND MONKSTOWN (CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD – WITH THE CHURCH OF IRELAND)A circuit on the edge of North Belfast, seeking to be light and a sign of God’s

love to the communities in which it is based.Superintendent Minister: Billy Davison

Ministers: Sam McGuffin, Pauline Lorimer, Ruth Patterson, Pauline Whan

Probationer Minister (Part-time): Sam Campbell

Retired Ministers Assisting: Ivan McElhinney, Ellen Whalley, Richard Russell

Pastoral Assistants: Mary Henderson (Rathcoole), Chris Boucher (Glengormley)

Youth Work (Part-time): Elaine Gowdy (Mossley)

PRAYERLoving Father, we give you praise for your enabling grace, which has prompted many to serve the most vulnerable and fearful within the community. As we look to the future, we rest in your rich promises to strengthen us, while bringing before you all who have suffered the loss of loved ones during such difficult times. We trust in the leading of the Holy Spirit to glorify Jesus in all preparations for the future. Amen.

METHODIST CHURCH, GHANAWorld Mission Partnership is helping each of MCI’s districts to develop a link with a world Church. The North Eastern District is linked with the Northern Accra Diocese of the Methodist Church, Ghana (MCG).

PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank you for all the truths contained in your Word and for the theme of the MCG: “Discipleship: teaching everyone to live like Jesus Christ” (Colossians 1: 28-29). Help us to read, mark, learn, inwardly digest and daily apply all that we are taught, so that we may grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus, to your praise and glory. May the partnership between the two Churches – MCG and MCI – deepen and mature through praying and being prayed for; giving and receiving; teaching and learning; serving and being served. Amen.Tom Wilson.

Philip Agnew.

Aaron Sweeney, North Eastern District Ambassador.

48 49

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

21CARRICKFERGUS, COMPRISING CARRICKFERGUS, GREENISLAND, WHITEHEAD AND ISLANDMAGEESuperintendent Minister: Stephen Woods

Minister: Edem Dzunu

Retired Minister Assisting: Stephen Sheerin

PRAYERLord, thank you that in each area of the circuit, Greenisland, Carrickfergus, Whitehead and Islandmagee, the Methodist churches share in work and witness with other churches, reaching out to the communities around. In a season of change, bless the regular and routine ministry of preaching and teaching, pastoral care and work with hundreds of children and young people every week. Please, may your Spirit empower this mission that many may find salvation, hope and purpose through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord and Saviour. Amen.

LARNE, COMPRISING LARNE, CRAIGYHILL AND CARNLOUGHThe circuit stretches along the Antrim Coast with Scotland ever in view. The North Channel is central in our history and future, and we pray for God’s steadying and guiding hand as we navigate the uncertain waters ahead and seek to proclaim the Good News in this strange new world.Superintendent Minister: Ruth Patterson

Probationer Minister: Chris Skillen

Retired Minister Assisting: Henry Keys

PRAYERLord, pour out your blessing on your faithful people, set us on fire for you, and fit us to be channels of the peace which only you can give, so that our church communities may be places in which your boundless love may be discovered, and that, amidst great changes in society, your people here might know and proclaim the greatest change of all, which is to be caught up in your life and your love. Amen.

ANTRIMChange can be a double-edged sword. For some it is the end of something, a dying, tinged with sadness, loss and a knowledge that things will never be the same again. For others it is a time of rebirth, renewal, opportunity and a fresh start. Antrim congregation are sad as we lose our current minister but delighted to welcome his replacement. We pray for all who are going through times of change and remember that in Christ we have a constant, faithful, steady rock on which to build whatever awaits us.Superintendent Minister: Stephen Thompson

PRAYERLord, we pray for those who are experiencing change. Be a comfort and source of strength for those whose lives have changed through loss. Be an inspiration and guide for those whose lives are changed by gain. In either case, Jesus, we ask that you remind us that you never change, your faithfulness and love goes with us and that you will bless us as we strive to do your great work. Amen.

BALLYMENA“The Living Rooms” Community Hub redevelopment project supports emotional well-being through offering access to, and delivery of, services that have a positive impact on a broad range of people in our community. Copies of our project booklet are available on our website or on request.

Superintendent Minister: David Sweeney

Retired Minister Assisting: David Cooper

Living Rooms Co-ordinator: Elaine McDonald

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for the continuing work of our “The Living Rooms” Community Hub Project, following our successful planning permission approval in May 2020. We pray for the realisation of plans to expand our work within our community, through our fundraising, of building relationships with individuals and groups who may, for whatever reason, feel isolated, vulnerable, hurt and voiceless. We pray for our congregation and for their faith, giving, loving and praying ,that the vision will become a reality which celebrates healing, hope and life for all. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

BALLYCLARE, COMPRISING BALLYCLARE, BALLYNURE AND DOAGHThree Methodist churches who seek to worship and experience God as we love him and reach out to others in that love.Superintendent Minister: Robert Loney

Retired Ministers Assisting: Elizabeth Hewitt, Andrew Boucher, Mary Hunter (Presbyterian)

PRAYERFather, Son and Holy Spirit, help us to acknowledge that you call us into your story. Open our eyes to the radical nature of your call. Help us to recognise the distinction between the standards of the world and your Kingdom reality as we walk in faith to share the essence of the gospel; keep us steadfast in our walk and witness. Thank you, Jesus, for empowering us and sending us out to proclaim freedom to those shackled to a decadent world system. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION (IJM)Every day, countless people are sold into slavery, as slave-owners make a profit from their misery. WDR partner IJM is the largest anti-slavery organisation in the world, with a plan to eliminate slavery everywhere.

PRAYERFather God, thank you that IJM have worked with local authorities to rescue over 50,000 people from slavery and other forms of oppression throughout the world. God, continue to strengthen and guide IJM teams and those whom they train. Father, we pray for IJM’s new field office in Romania. We recognise that this is a key location for tackling trafficking throughout Europe – be with the team as they build relationships with police, government officials and Church leaders. Amen.

International Justice Mission.

50 51

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

22CULLYBACKEYA single-church circuit in the heart of a farming community with a mission to glorify God and share his love and good news with others.Superintendent Minister: David Clements

Retired Minister Assisting: Laurie Churms

PRAYERLord, in the midst of all that is changing, we hold to the truth that you are not. Thank you that our relationship with you and our appreciation for one another have deepened. We pray that we will not forget the lessons we have learnt during this pandemic and that our worship, witness and service will be immeasurably more fruitful as a result of our going through it. Amen.

NORTH BELFAST, COMPRISING CAVEHILL, JENNYMOUNT, JOANMOUNT AND WELL.COM PIONEER MISSIONDemonstrating Methodist life and witness in North Belfast. Developing good community relationships as we reach out into the local area. Well.com offers pioneer mission, combining mental health and spirituality; the First Step Prayer Centre offers prayer ministry, interceding for, and reaching out to, the community around them.Superintendent and Pioneer Minister (Jennymount): Alan Lorimer

Minister (Joanmount, Cavehill): Alan Conly

Retired Minister Assisting (Jennymount): Brenda Weatherill

PRAYERWe pray for the members of Cavehill as they cease to meet as a society in this coming year. We give thanks for their faithful witness to Christ. We pray for the growing number of discipleship bands in Jennymount and its witness in the local community. We pray for and look forward to the start of “Rise Up”, a new ministry pioneered by Alan Conly and Joanmount. We pray for the work of Well.com as it continues to serve the wider church and community with spiritually-sensitive psychotherapy and psychologically-sensitive spiritual direction. We also pray for the small worshipping community that meets monthly and the 2nd Sunday group that these groups will continue to grow. We pray for the Threshold and Paying Attention to God courses which meet in the First Step Centre. We are thankful for the way that well.com has been integrated into the mission of Jennymount and the First Step. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: OPEN SCHOOLS WORLDWIDE (OSWW)OSWW desires to help uneducated children, who are at risk of abuse and exploitation, by providing bridging educational resources and training to mission-motivated local volunteers who help them in Africa.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you for the ministry of Open Schools in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, Kenya and Ethiopia. We thank you for the faithful, dedicated and selfless volunteer tutors, who receive children into their care. With limited resources they deliver a literacy, numeracy and life skills curriculum and transform the lives of children in communities whom many ignore or have forgotten. We ask that you would enlarge their territory and provide resources so that they can reach more children worldwide. Amen.

Children in an OSWW class.

JMA fundraiser at Seymour St Methodist Church.

JUNIOR MISSION FOR ALLJMA encourages children and young people to be part of God’s global mission through learning, praying and serving.

PRAYERLoving heavenly Father, thank you for all the children and young people in our care and those whom we seek to support elsewhere in the world. As we mission with InspireKids in Chemnitz, Germany, may we be “inspired” to be open and welcoming to other cultures and traditions. We pray that all may know compassion and hope in their new communities. Help us to grow in faith alongside one another. Amen.

52 53

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

23SOUTH AND CENTRAL BELFAST, COMPRISING BELFAST SOUTH, DONEGALL ROAD, SANDY ROW AND BELFAST CENTRAL MISSION, GROSVENOR HOUSESuperintendent Minister: David Campton

Minister and Honorary Chaplain to Methodist College: Emily Hyland

Minister in Part-time Appointment: June Parke

Universities’ Chaplain: Barry Forde (Church of Ireland)

Non-Stipendiary Probationer and Lead City Centre Chaplain: Andrew Irvine

Lay Minister: Lynn McFarland

Student Minister on Placement: Leah McKibben

BCM Chief Executive: Nicky Conway

BCM Chair: Rowan Black

BCM Head of Finance and Business Support: Gillian Murray

Agape Centre Administrator: Jo-Anne Crossley

BCM employs around 190 other staff and has over 130 volunteers.This diverse circuit, with significant extra-congregational ministries associated with it, continues to seek to serve God in serving others in this part of Belfast and beyond, with the particular challenges of doing so in a post-COVID-19 world, building on the greater sense of circuit established over the past two years. Most of the members of the congregations are elderly and a number of the projects associated with Belfast Central Mission work with older people and a significant part of the Rev. June Parke’s ministry focuses on this age group, especially

the isolated elderly and those in care facilities.Belfast South, based in the Agape Centre on the Lisburn Road, has a thriving Public Theology Programme helping people to reflect on contemporary social and political issues, a new Mission Strategy Team, co-ordinating the outreach of the Centre and congregation, and is focusing on prayer at present, looking forward to a postponed Prayer Retreat in May 2021.Donegall Road Methodist continues to work in partnership with South City Community Group, to offer community support in an area of profound social challenges.Sandy Row, with their recently appointed Lay Minister, is exploring how best to reach out to the community around them.The Grosvenor Hall congregation, based in what is also the headquarters of Belfast Central Mission, is exploring what a Methodist presence in the city centre should look like in this changed and challenging world.Belfast City Centre Chaplaincy is now a separately constituted charity with its multi-denominational team of volunteer chaplains reaching out to those who live and work in the city centre. The Church of the Resurrection at Queen’s University, is a joint Methodist and Church of Ireland congregation and the home of the Methodist/Church of Ireland Belfast Student Chaplaincy project reaching out not only to QUB but also to Stranmillis

University College, Ulster University in the Cathedral Quarter and Belfast Metropolitan College.Belfast Central Mission, operating out of Grosvenor House, continues to provide help to people of all ages across Northern Ireland, through four supported housing projects for young people, housing support for young and older people, a befriending project, therapeutic counselling, a seniors lunch club, tea dances and holidays, parent support, Puddleducks Day Nursery, Kirk House Residential Care Home and from 2021 Copelands Dementia and Nursing care facility. The latter project was significantly delayed by the COVID-19 crisis, with other projects either suspended or having both extra demands and limitations placed on them.The Chaplaincy has its own staff team, working in different colleges across the city, staffing the Hub Café and looking after the chaplaincy residents.The City Centre Chaplaincy has a team of volunteer chaplains drawn from a wide range of denominations.

PRAYERGod of All Ages, we give special thanks for the older members of our circuit, and their generous contribution to the life of the church, praying for their wellbeing, and for those care facilities and projects that are focused on older people. Grant vision and resources for the future, as we pray for our circuit staff, the BCM staff and volunteers and those for whom they care. May they know your precious love surrounding them and protecting them. Amen.

GREATER SHANKILL, COMPRISING SHANKILL, WOODVALE AND ST ANDREW’S CHURCH OF IRELAND/METHODISTChurches serving the Greater Shankill community through witness, service, worship and mission for all ages.Superintendent Minister: Colin Duncan

Retired Ministers Assisting: Jim Rea, Brian Fletcher

Community and Youth/Children’s worker: Emma-Jayne Speers

PRAYERDear Lord, please give us wisdom and discernment as we seek new ways to be Church and to integrate with our community. We pray for a unity of spirit with our sister churches in this area and a Spirit of reconciliation with our neighbours. We pray for our mission, outreach and work amongst young people. Lord, we cry out for a revival and spiritual awakening which will bring “Grace without limits” to this community and across its divisions. Amen.

BALLLYNAFEIGH, COMPRISING BALLYNAFEIGH, KNOCKBREDA, BELVOIR AND CAIRNSHILLA circuit in the suburbs of South East Belfast seeking to deepen fellowship within the circuit and to reach out to the surrounding community.Superintendent Minister: Maureen Hassard

Minister: Edward Kirwan

Pioneer Mission Leaders: David and Jill Hinds

Youth and Community Worker: Heather Bailie

Retired Ministers Assisting: Heather Bell, Peter Mercer

PRAYERFather God, we believe as a circuit we have come closer together in the last year and we have so many plans for moving forward, but we are living in tumultuous times and for a period many of those plans are on hold. But, Lord, we thank you for the technology that is allowing us to keep in contact with church members and we pray for further ways of keeping together as a church. We pray for your guidance, vision, strength, comfort and love to take us through this difficult time and that, at the end, we will have become a closer church family, better able to reach out to those around us and share your love. Amen.

The commissioning of Mrs Lynn McFarland as Lay Minister, with the Rev. June Parke and members of the Sandy Row congregation.

54 55

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

24EAST BELFAST MISSIONPartnering with God in our Community. East Belfast Mission continues to touch the lives of 1,000 people per week with its various programmes. Many in the East Belfast area are living with various forms of poverty. There is an increased number of homeless people and we are concerned that there will be a spike in unemployment. We are working with others to encourage investment in, and hope for, the East Belfast Community.Superintendent Minister: Brian Anderson

Chief Executive: Andrew Irvine

Finance Officer: Emma Shields

Community Worker: Sandi Gallagher

Church, Family and Community Worker: Kim Cooper

Homeless Services Manager: Aidan Byrne

Employability Manager: Rebecca Boyd

Irish Language Development Officer: Linda Irvine

Catering Manager: Diane McNaught

Area Retail Manager: Michael Sloan

PRAYEROur Father, we pray for the senior management team as they find a firm structural basis for EBM to continue to do its vital work. We ask for the continued support of government to ensure that homeless services can continue. Bless the worshipping community. We give thanks for the renewed relationships with local churches. We pray for the ideas around life groups and missional outreach, which arose from a church weekend, to come to fruition. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

MOUNTPOTTINGER AND BLOOMFIELDTwo churches striving to work together and with others to share God’s love in East Belfast and beyond.Superintendent Minister: Kenneth Connor

Minister: Nigel Murphy

PRAYERLoving God, we thank you for the faithful witness over many generations in our two churches. Lord, as we continue to discern how God is calling us to live out his mission in new ways, we pray for your guiding Spirit. In the days ahead, help us to fix our eyes on Jesus, as we look for new opportunities to serve and grow in love for you. With anticipation, we step into the future. Amen.

CREGAGH AND GLENBURNA city circuit seeking to connect with families living in the Cregagh and Castlereagh communities of East Belfast.Superintendent Minister: Kenneth Connor

Minister: Cheryl Patterson

PRAYERWonderful God, we thank you for your continuous presence with us. We thank you for how you guide us and lead us into new opportunities in which to engage and serve one another. Strengthen us to continue your work and witness to all generations, especially in times of uncertainty and transition. Thank you for the opportunity to work alongside others in our community. Joint group from Glenburn and Newtownabbey attending Soul Mates (March 2020).

Grant us courage and wisdom as we continue to follow your leading in these days. For your glory and your Kingdom, we pray. Amen.

SYDENHAMTo be a people who worship, witness to and work for God.Superintendent Minister: Robin Waugh

Youth and Children’s Placement Student: Aaron Sweeney

PRAYERLoving Father, we give you praise and thanks for your faithfulness in all the promises you have made to us, as individuals and as a collective body of praying and worshipping folk in Sydenham. We pray for all those reaching out and taking God’s love to our local community. Let us shine a light in this sometimes-dark world and may we use every opportunity to show kindness, care and love in a hurting world. Continue to help us to make our church ever more relevant and to find creative ways to continue to spread the love and hope of Christ. Amen.

EBM Employability Team celebrate 100 people back to work through their efforts.

56 57

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

25

The Surf Project Camp in Senegal.

Paul and Paula Gallucci.

Limavady Pioneer Mission.

PIONEER MISSION

PIONEER MISSION COMMITTEEChairperson: Laurence Graham

THE SURF PROJECTThe Surf Project creates places and spaces for people to encounter God in a relaxed, safe and fun environment. We also have WAVES, small group sessions, that seek to develop a sense of responsibility and accountability in young people as they own their faith.Director: Jono Griffin

Team Manager: Rene Ravenscroft

Administration: Ken McCrea

Hostel Manager: Rebekah Finney

Global Mission Fellowship Programme: Lily Jones (USA)

Social Media: Carlos Nacpil III (Philippines)

Website: Joseba Attard (Basque Country)

PIONEER MISSION – LIMAVADYPaul and Paula Gallucci

PRAYERLoving God, thank you for your robust grace “your power made perfect in our weakness” (2 Corinthians 12: 8-9). For situations where we feel weak, thank you for your strength. For where we’ve seen your strength already, help us boast about our weakness and your power. For our aspirations to be and do in your name, we pray that Christ’s power may rest on us. For Limavady Methodist Church, and our community , may grace sufficient be known. Amen.

BREATHEBreathe is the name of a small group of people aiming to hang out in the inner-city area of South Dublin, asking the question, “What is God up to here – how can we join in?” They have regular gatherings (in varying forms) in Dublin, coffee mornings at the YMCA crèche, Breathe Tank gatherings (teaching evenings with a meal), and one-on-one discipleship and mentoring presence.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for the Breathe community to continue to seek out where you are in their life, work and home. Jesus, we ask that you be their strength and comfort in tough times. Where there is addiction, alleviate it; where there are mental health issues, lift those burdens; where there is heartbreak, heal the wounds. Holy Spirit, may you fill them as they breathe, think, work, serve, move, live and have their being in Dublin. Amen.

PLAY IT BY EARPlay it by Ear is a Christian drama company which provides performances, workshops and scripts for churches, events and community groups. They are passionate about resourcing churches to use drama to share God’s love. Find out more at playitbyeardrama.com.

PRAYERCreator God, we thank you for how the ministry of Play it by Ear has grown and all the new opportunities Chris and Ross have had to use their gifts to your glory. In the changed situation that COVID-19 has caused, help them to find creative new ways to share their faith through drama. Amen.

BELFAST CITY-CENTRE CHAPLAINCYBelfast City-Centre Chaplaincy seeks to place embedded chaplains into businesses in Belfast City centre.Leader: Andrew Irvine

PRAYEROur Father, we thank you for the opportunities for service and witness that occur when the chaplains engage with businesspeople and customers in the various businesses in which they are situated in Belfast City centre. Give them courage, wisdom and sensitivity as they talk about Jesus and the good news he brings, to those who are willing to listen. May those who serve you in this ministry be blessed and be a blessing. We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus. Amen.

PIONEER MISSION LEADERS (BALLYNAFEIGH)David and Jill Hinds

PRAYEROur Father, we pray that as David and Jill move into the building phase of a new mission initiative on the Ballynafeigh circuit, they would be led by the Spirit to make good decisions. We ask that they would know his provision and grace in this time of change and development and that they would continue to enjoy a unity of spirit and purpose on the circuit. Amen.

PRAYERLord, we pray for The Surf Project, based in Portrush, as it continues to encourage, challenge, nurture and inspire people across Ireland and abroad. We thank you for its Director Jono Griffin and the staff and volunteers who put so much time and energy into sharing your good news through the work of the Project. May your Holy Spirit be with them as they return to full-time work, with a busy summer of events and kids clubs ahead and as they also begin the exciting new role of running the Portrush Hostel; may they see the joy of you at work in everything they do. Amen.

58 59

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

26FINAGHY AND SEYMOUR HILLOn the edge of south Belfast, two churches grow closer to God in prayer and look outward to witness to the community.Superintendent Minister: Colin Gracie

Retired Minister Assisting (Part-time): Robert Wallace

PRAYERLord, we thank you for committed service in our church activities and expressions of worship. As we have adjusted to new ways of mission, you have guided and inspired us. Strengthen our faith for the challenges that lie ahead. Open our eyes to see you at work within our congregations and beyond our boundaries. Give us courage to go to the new places that you invite us to so that we can take our place in the work of your Kingdom. Amen.

WDR PARTNER: ALL WE CANWDR partners with its sister agency in the Methodist Church in Britain, All We Can, to support development work in Zimbabwe.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for those facing extreme poverty due to the climate crisis, dealing with food shortages, uncertain crop yields and being trapped in a cycle of debt. We pray for local organisations, especially our All We Can partners, who are attempting to tackle these difficulties and transform the lives of the communities most affected. Sustain and equip them to deal with the challenges they face. Help us be good partners and listen carefully to those on the frontline of the climate crisis. Hear our prayer. Amen.

EUROPEAN METHODIST COUNCIL (EMC)EMC is the consultative council that brings together representatives from Methodist, Wesleyan and Uniting Churches across Europe. EMC meets annually in September for worship, prayer, learning and sharing in God’s mission. It links with other bodies throughout Europe and the world, such as the World Methodist Council. It carries out its work throughout the year through the Executive Committee and working groups looking as issues around theology and mission.Co-Chairs: Bishop Harald Rückert, Doug Swanney

Members of EMC from MCI: Heather Morris, David Turtle, Tara Redmond

Support Officer: Kathryn Harte

PRAYERThank you, God, for the EMC and for the opportunity that it gives to Methodist leaders around Europe to come together in fellowship, worship and mission. We pray for Churches across Europe in the light of COVID-19, continuing to bring hope to every corner of Europe despite the challenges of this time. In this year where the EMC has not been able to meet physically, may our relationships and our shared witness be strengthened as we reflect together on the impact of COVID-19 on God’s mission through the Church in Europe and what that means for the future. Amen.

THE COUNCIL ON SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYThe Council on Social Responsibility aims to bring theological insight to social, political and economic issues and to provide realistic recommendations for actions. It has Northern and Southern Executives.Chairs: David Clements, Steven Foster

Secretaries: Hazel Baird, Liz Parkin

Treasurer: Bill Parkinson

PRAYERGod of all creation, we recognise your image in all of humanity. Help us to live in recognition of that in the interests of others. Hear the cry of those who have little or no voice in our land or suffer in family homes. In light of the pandemic, recreate our society in your likeness. As a Church may we be active for the sake of your Kingdom in the realms of climate justice, politics, racial equality, health and economics. May we live out the beauty of your Kingdom. Amen.

Packing a container at the warehouse in Lurgan.

Tara Redmond, EMC Ambassador.

THE CONTAINER MINISTRYWilliam Carson and the team of volunteers are busy at the Lurgan Warehouse sending containers and shipments across the world.

PRAYERLord, you teach us to love your Word and your world. Thank you for 30 years of the Container Ministry, serving the cause of Christ in global evangelism and social justice. Thank you for safe delivery of 240 containers and shipments to 41 countries. We bless you for the body of supporters throughout Ireland who are able to source the equipment which has been requested by partner Churches overseas. Bless the volunteers at the Lurgan store as they pack the shipments. Protect the containers on their journeys. Amen.

The grace of the Lord, Like a fathomless sea, Sufficient for you, sufficient for me, Is tender and gracious and boundless and free, Sufficient for every need. (Anon)

60 61

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

27BANGOR AND HOLYWOOD, COMPRISING BALLYHOLME, CARNALEA, HOLYWOOD, PRIMACY, QUEEN’S PARADE AND WESLEY CENTENARYWe are six church families seeking to reflect the faithful love of God to our communities in a time of change.Superintendent Minister: Fiona McCrea

Ministers: Gary Millar, Mark Durrell, Amanda Durrell

Retired Minister Assisting: Roy Cooper

Lay Pastors: Melanie Douglas, Elizabeth Doyle

Youth Worker: Claire Stewart

PRAYERFather, this past year our world has changed and we have had to alter the way we do things. Thank you that in the midst of change you remain faithful, your love, grace and mercy are unaltered, your promises remain steadfast and sure. As churches may we model the fruit of the Spirit to our communities, may we embrace new ways of doing worship, discipleship and mission with enthusiasm and may we continue to trust you on the journey. Amen.

DONAGHADEEExisting to glorify God, by making his love known in word and deed – in the church, the local community and the world – through the power of the Holy Spirit.Superintendent Minister: Tom McKnight

Ministers Assisting: Louise McKee, Aian Ferguson, Bert Montgomery, Daphne Twinem

PRAYERLord, we pray for the seaside town of Donaghadee, and for the Methodist church there, during this time of heightened awareness because of the coronavirus pandemic. We pray for the residents of Donaghadee, a town with one of the oldest populations in the Province. May the Church learn from the COVID-19 crisis regarding its future mission. Help this congregation to see what God has in store for it now. May we continue to live to make his love known. Amen.

NEWTOWNARDS, MOVILLA ABBEY AND COMBERThree societies endeavouring to live out their faith locally.Superintendent Minister: Colin Milligan (Regent Street)

Minister: Michael Spence (Movilla Abbey)

Lay Pastor: Nicky Hazley (Comber)

Youth Pastors: Laura Ewing, Maria Ghianni (Movilla Abbey)

PRAYERLord God, as you lead us on in our journey of faith through these changing times, help us to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Grant insight and courage to us all that we may share the grace of God which is without limits. Guide the people of Movilla as they continue to partner with the Church of Ireland congregation in reaching out to their community and encourage Comber as they continue to look for new ways to connect with the wider community. Help us faithfully follow, step by step. Amen.

GLASTRY AND PORTAFERRYSharing the grace of Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Spirit on the Ards Peninsula.Superintendent Minister: Jordan Litchfield

PRAYERGracious Father, we thank you for your love and power at work through the Glastry and Portaferry congregations. May your Spirit continue the work of personal transformation into the image of Christ, so that they will grow in unity, grace, and commitment with all your people in furthering the Kingdom of Christ. Guide them in the mission of making disciples, learning to live as your Church in their homes, workplaces and communities. Thank you that you are able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we can ask or think. Amen.

WORLD METHODIST COUNCIL (WMC)The World Methodist Council is made up of some 80 Methodist, Wesleyan and related Uniting and United churches representing over 80 million members in 138 countries. It empowers and serves member Churches by encouraging Methodist unity in witness, facilitating mission in the world, and fostering

WMC officials: (L-R) Ivan Abrahams (General Secretary), Gillian Kingston (Vice-President) and Kirby Hickey (Finance Officer).

ecumenical and inter-religious activities. The Council seeks to give encouragement and support to those who work for justice, human reconciliation and world peace; it works for greater unity among Christians through theological agreement based on faithfulness to the Gospel, thus honouring the prayer of Christ that all might be one that the world might believe.President: Professor Jon Chun Park (South Korea)

Vice-President: Gillian Kingston (Ireland)

General Secretary: Bishop Ivan Abrahams (South Africa)

PRAYERLoving God, we give you thanks for the work of the World Methodist Council as it offers a place where “the people called Methodist” may come together to affirm faith in you and love of each other. We thank you for the solidarity that strengthens us in our witness to the faith in so many different contexts. At a time when issues threaten to divide the Body of Christ, grant us unity in our diversity and grace without limits to love as we have been loved. May the light of that love shine in the darkness, enabling your will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

62 63

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

28BALLYNAHINCHWorshipping God, bearing witness to the love of Christ and forming communities of wholeness by the Spirit.Superintendent Minister: Ruth Craig

PRAYERLoving Heavenly Father, we thank you for the work you are doing in Ballynahinch and for closer links with other churches in the town as together we run Alpha courses and seek to show your love to all. We ask that you continue to bless this church, that all members would continue to grow in grace and knowledge of your Son, Jesus Christ and pray especially as we prepare for a Lay Witness weekend which had to be postponed. We look forward to what God will do in and through the team. Amen.

DUNDRUM, NEWCASTLE AND DOWNPATRICKThe circuit consists of three small congregations who have been working together to form a new single congregation who can witness to God’s blessing as they have sought to be a blessing to others.Superintendent Minister: Thomas Clarke

Retired Ministers Assisting: Samuel Burch, Mervyn Ewing

PRAYERFather, we give thanks for the sense of your Spirit leading us into a new future for our Methodist witness in the Dundrum, Newcastle and Downpatrick area. As your Spirit has blessed us, we thank you that you have been pleased to use us to bless others, especially through the work of the Pantry Foodbank. In these days of uncertainty, we look to the one who has promised us new life through the certainty of the resurrection wherein we find our hope. Amen.

THE METHODIST CHURCH, UPPER MYANMAR (MCUM)MCI continues in partnership with MCUM, through World Mission Partnership and a growing link between the MWI and their equivalent, the MWA, in Myanmar.

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we pray for our brothers and sisters in the Methodist Church, Upper Myanmar. Thank you for the relationship between our Churches and for the continued connection through the MWI and the MWA. Thank you for the Cana paddy field that the MWI have funded in The Rev. Kok Thang.

Baking classes run by the Methodist Church Chile for Haitian migrants.

Myanmar; may it be a blessing through its income-generation for the MWA. We think of the Conference and President the Rev. Kok Thang; may they continue to seek after your will. Amen.

THE METHODIST CHURCH, CHILEThe Methodist Church of Chile extends throughout the whole country. There are 126 congregations, with a membership of 17,600.

PRAYERJust God, in the context of tensions in Chile, caused by deep inequalities in society, we pray with the prophet Amos, “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream” (NIV). In particular, we pray for our sisters and brothers of Iglesia Metodista de Chile, a Church courageous in speaking out for the oppressed and offering the good news to all. Especially we ask you, God, to strengthen and guide Sister Mariela and Pastor Hugette as they lead work (partly funded by WMP) amongst recently-arrived migrants. Amen.

64 65

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

29KNOCK, COMPRISING KNOCK, BRANIEL AND DUNDONALDThe three societies in our circuit are in three distinct areas along the eastern periphery of Belfast. As staffing on the circuit has been reduced, we seek to work more closely to support the varied work of God across our circuit.Superintendent Minister: Paul Maxwell

Minister: Britt Gilmore

Retired Minister Assisting (Braniel): Jo Sweeney

Pastoral and Family Worker (Knock): Lesley Moreland

Circuit Youth and Family Worker: Michael Anderson

Secretary: Laura Bryce

Listening to an audio Bible in Togo.

PRAYERLoving God, we give thanks for the continuing work and witness of our three churches. We give thanks for all the unseen moments of service done in your name to those who are sick, bereaved, marginalised, and particularly for the desire to reconnect with the communities in which we live. We pray for the two new members of staff and their families, that their transition would be smooth and they would be aware of your grace and your leading in their new roles. Amen.

BIBLE SOCIETY NIWMP continues to partner with the Bible Society NI to provide Scripture for refugees in Austria, audio Bibles for Listening Groups in Togo, and to help migrant workers in the Gulf States engage with God’s Word through Bible Storytelling workshops.

PRAYERGracious God, we thank you for the gift of your Word. We are grateful for the wisdom, challenge and encouragement that the Bible provides. Lord, we are sorry for the times we take the Bible and our access to it for granted. We pray for Bible Societies around the world as they reach everyone with your Word through translation, publication, distribution and engagement. We pray for individuals, leaders and church communities as they respond to your living Word. Amen.

CASTLEWELLAN HOLIDAY WEEKCastlewellan Forest Park is the venue each summer for the Holiday Week which aims through worship, teaching, friendship and lots of fun to encourage young and old in their faith and walk with God. Families, youth groups and single people, of all ages and denominations, gather together from across this island, share their faith, their joys and their struggles and pray that God’s Spirit will continue to move within them and across the land.Chairperson: David Rock

Secretary: Wendy Johnston

Treasurer: Mark McElhinneyDundonald Prayer Group.

PRAYERFather God, in the midst of times that shake the very foundation of who we are, we pray for each other, for safety, for health, for strength of faith and for endurance. As we prepare for Castlewellan 2021, may we know your guidance, your peace, and your anointing. We praise you that our theme is Freedom, as all of us have struggled being in lockdown. May we know your freedom in our hearts and in our lives. We pray for our speaker, Jon Middendorf, as he prepares, that you would give him the words we need to hear and may you bless us as we prepare and come together in August. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

STIPENDS AND ALLOWANCES BOARDThe Board sets the stipends and allowances for ministers and vocational lay workers. It has responsibility for the Ministers’ Children’s Fund, the Ministers’ Medical Fund, the Disability Fund, the Retirement Funds and the Augmentation Fund. Their responsibility is to balance circuit resources with the needs of ministers and their families.Chair: John Buchanan

Lay Secretary: Stephen Knox

Ministerial Secretary: Emily Hyland

Secretary and Treasurer to the Retirement Fund: Jeremy Nicoll

PRAYERWe thank you, Lord, for our Church’s care for our ministers and their families, as well as for all our employed staff. May the financial contributions from circuits towards stipends, salaries, expenses and wellbeing continue to be generously available in these difficult times and the Stipends and Allowances Board be enabled to do its work wisely and well. And may this area of Church life, as every other, continue to be characterised by care and compassion, and a desire to glorify your name. Amen.

66 67

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

30LISBURN AND DROMORE, COMPRISING BROOMHEDGE, DROMORE, MAGHERAGALL, PRIESTHILL, SEYMOUR STREET AND TRINITYWe are six church families learning to live in the way of Jesus and desiring to share God’s good news, love and grace in our daily lives.Superintendent Minister: David Turtle

Ministers: Thomas Clarke, Ross Harte, Alan Craig

Retired Ministers Assisting: Tom Deacon, James Williamson

Pastoral Assistant: Shirley Carrington

Youth Pastor (Seymour Street): Ashleigh O’Sullivan

Pastoral Visitor: Billy Bryson

PRAYERLord God, as those who seek to live Jesus’ way, we are so conscious of our complete dependence on your grace without limits. As we pursue living and witnessing, in a period where much has changed, help us to be alert and responsive to the whisper of your Spirit in the situations where you have placed us. Give us courage to tell your good news, compassion to reflect your relentless love, and humility that reveals your sufficient grace. Amen.

MISSION ASSOCIATESMission Associates are those sent by other organisations to serve overseas, but who are partly supported by World Mission Partnership.

Gurteen College.Trinity Methodist Church.

Dromore Christmas Tree Festival, 2019.

PRAYERFather God, you call each of us to serve you and today we pray particularly for those you have called to serve you beyond this island. We pray for our Mission Associates and thank you for their faithful response to your call on their lives. God, draw near to them and guide their work and ministry. Bless their relationships and the communities of which they are part. Amen.

GURTEEN COLLEGEGurteen College provides agricultural and related education with various courses up to degree level in a positive community environment. Learning and working together to enhance life in rural communities.Principal: John Parry

Assistant Principal: Stephanie Scully

Chair of Governors: Roy Kingston

Chaplain: Steven Foster

PRAYERGod of all the earth, we thank you for the life of Gurteen College and its commitment to the welfare of all who work the land, as well as to the environment itself. We thank you for the dedication of staff and all in the community of the college to enable all to thrive. May your blessing be upon all staff and students as they uphold high educational standards, provide quality practical training, promote a healthy community and offer a socially responsible ethic and vision. May the beauty of God’s Kingdom be made known through Gurteen. Amen.

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. (1 Corinthians 15: 10)

68 69

PRAYER FOCUS

DAY

31BOARD OF EDUCATIONThe Board of Education seeks to develop, in co-operation with other Churches, a clear and shared vision of education, shaped by the core values of Christian faith.Ministerial Treasurer and Convener, Southern Executive: Nigel Mackey

Lay Treasurer: Ken Twyble

PRAYERIn the ever-increasing changes and challenges in education, and with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic relating to schools, colleges and universities, we pray for wisdom and discernment for the Department of Education, the Education Authority, and the officers and members of the Board of Education as they reach and make decisions; and the strengthening of grace and patience in principals and teaching staff and all who contribute to a positive experience in the education of young people. We pray for inspiration and the empowering of faith among pupils and students, to discover balance in their lives, and to find time for all that is important, especially in their relationships, their homes, their study and their classes. We thank you for the continuing dedication of governors as they give freely of themselves in service and in support of the work of principals and as they contribute to the well-being of staff and to the smooth running of all educational establishments. In the name of Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen.

RATHGAR NATIONAL SCHOOL, DUBLINRathgar National School was founded in 1896. This Methodist primary school has a current enrolment of 91 children. The principal, Ivan Pearson is a native of Letterkenny in Co. Donegal. There are three mainstream teachers, Special Education teachers and ancillary staff. Andrew Dougherty is Chair of the Board of Governors while Yongnam Park and Andrew Kingston conduct regular school assemblies.Teaching Principal: Ivan Pearson

Chairperson: Andrew Dougherty

Chaplains: Andrew Kingston, Yongnam Park

PRAYEROur Father, may all associated with this school, and others, grow spiritually, physically, educationally and socially. Amen.

ST ANDREW’S NATIONAL SCHOOL, BRAY, CO. WICKLOWA Christian school under the trusteeship of the Methodist, Presbyterian and Church of Ireland Churches. Our Christian ethos not only informs our lessons in religious education but also in every other area of the curriculum and in our life together as a school community of children, parents/guardians and staff.Principal: Daphne Wood

Deputy Principal: Caroline Aragane

PRAYERHeavenly Father, we thank you for all the children attending these national schools. We thank you for the Christian input they receive during school hours and we pray that this will complement the Christian witness of their homes and churches. We pray for their protection and for their mental, physical, spiritual and emotional development. We pray also for the teachers and governors, that you will bless them with wisdom and encouragement. Amen.

METHODIST COLLEGEMethodist College Belfast, founded in 1868, is one of Northern Ireland’s leading grammar schools, with an outstanding reputation for academic excellence and an impressive record of achievement in music, drama and sport. The school’s motto is “Deus Nobiscum – God is with us.”Principal: Scott Naismith

Chaplains: Emily Hyland, Ian Gibson

PRAYEROur Father, we thank you for the way in which staff and pupils have been working virtually during the present pandemic. Thank you that the members of staff have been loyal and co-operative. We pray for the students who are missing their friends and face-to-face learning during what is

already a tumultuous time in their lives in adolescence. Remember those who feel disappointed that they could not take GCSE and A level exams as prepared for and who are unsure of how their grades will be produced. Remember those who will not get the same sense of transition and celebration in their final year before university. Pray for senior staff and all teachers as they continue to work in an unusual on-line learning context. Remember them as they find the way ahead in what will continue to be a very new way of doing school in the next academic year. We pray for the chaplains as they continue to serve the school community. Amen.

WESLEY COLLEGEWesley College is one of Ireland’s premier schools and takes its Methodist foundation and Christian ethos seriously. The school works hard to promote an open and caring community for all who live, work, play and study on the campus. Its motto is: “Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5: 21).Principal: Christopher Woods

Chaplain: Nigel Mackey

PRAYERLord Jesus, with your continuing presence may Wesley College know your blessing and courage to face all the uncertainty our students and staff are coping with in a time of global crisis. We are grateful to you for all our resources and facilities and ask that they may be used to promote your Kingdom and the wellbeing of this community. We pray that all who enhance, develop and maintain the life of the College would be inspired by your Spirit. Amen.

Ivan Pearson.

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9: 8)

70 71

NOTES

72