By Cathy Cryer - Ahwatukee
The National Day of Prayer is one of my favorite times to pray because it offers the opportunity to join in united prayer with people across the U.S. for our nation, her culture, and her leaders at all levels from federal to local. Since God calls us all to do that anyway – all the time – and Scripture shows us how powerful the prayer is when it is united with many praying at once, it thrills me to be able to join in every May.
For Central’s Ahwatukee Campus this year, it meant several opportunities to participate. AND, from Ahwatukee, NDP even went global!
First, just one week before NDP, Ahwatukee hosted a night of worship and prayer for the Women’s Ministry. About 200 women from all our campuses joined together that night. Many took home with them a tent stake embossed with Scripture passages that they promised to use in prayer for our country on NDP Thursday. They agreed to “Stake a Claim for Jesus” wherever they “planted” the stake: at home, work, a favorite hiking path, the kids’ school, their grocery store parking lot…wherever.
Secondly, we offered a time and place for prayer at 7 pm the evening of National Day of Prayer. We started in the Prayer Room for a cozy time of prayer, but we grew to a group of 14 and had to move into a larger space.
Our attendees were mainly from our Ahwatukee campus, but we were joined by prayerful friends from two other congregations as well. They found our location on the National Day of Prayer website, where all our campus prayer offerings for the day were listed.
The privilege was praying in unity with brothers and sisters beyond Central’s attendees, joining locally in a way that echoed what was happening around the nation.
Our prayers focused on concerns for the military, education, business, government, media, churches, and families of America, not just for ourselves and our nation, which followed the National Day of Prayer theme this year, “For Your (God’s) Great Name’s Sake!”
Participants took tent pegs with them to “Stake a Claim for Jesus” wherever they went that night or through the weekend. Among them were a prayerful husband and wife team who were headed to Central Europe. They took three extra tent pegs for prayer in the three countries they were about to visit. Even as I write, the couple texted me that they have just prayed and Staked their first Claim for Jesus in Prague!
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By Kurt Stromberg - Mesa
Up until this year I had not participated in an event on the actual National Day of Prayer, so this time spent with 30+ other brothers and sisters was special. The energy was fantastic, but had a sense of purpose. That purpose of course, was prayer.
It was great to see some familiar faces and it was even better to meet a couple of prayer warriors from other churches. We said a quick hello and then Paul explained the meaning of the stakes that were handed out. We placed stakes in the corner of the property, praying over the street and the six closest homes. We were challenged to get to know our six neighbors by the book, The Art of Neighboring written by Jay Pathak and Dave Runyon.
We then got busy praying over the church, the government, our families, the family’s relationship with the educational system and our brave warriors who have served and are currently serving. Overall, an amazing experience and I look forward to next year’s National Day of Prayer gathering at Central. |
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By Lisa Henry - Gilbert
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
What a privilege it is to have the freedom in a nation that has dedicated a “National Day of Prayer.” May our hearts turn from wicked ways and toward God to heal our land.
Attendees at the Gilbert Campus called by His name, were humbled, prayed and sought His face in the early morning hours of National Day of Prayer. It was less about the coffee and more about the prayer! It was the early morning commuter and the mom with children who chose to walk the campus in prayer as a wonderful witness of prayer to her two young children.
Dozens of tent stakes were taken to “Stake a Claim for Jesus”. One woman shared that her Life Group took the scripture on the tent stakes, read them as they prayed His word back to Him and then put the stakes around their community where they hope to see many other stakes.
If you want to read more about NDP, check out thisarticle. |
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By Jerry Burke - Queen Creek
Queen Creek celebrated National Day of Prayer by setting up a prayer station underneath a tent on our new property. It was open from 7 am until 7 pm.
That evening, about 30 people showed up to attend “Stake Your Claim for Jesus”. One visitor who came to our campus looking for a building, but not a tent, brought her Shofar (musical ram’s horn) and gave a few of us who were there a demonstration.
Our campus pastor, Duane Boyett, brought his guitar and opened up a mini service, leading us in worship by singing “Holy Spirit” and “How Great is Our God”.
Jerry Burke read part of an article explaining sanctification. Everyone participated in a reading of John 17. Each individual was given a verse from John 17 and they each read their verse aloud in order, so the group heard the entire chapter. Jerry then said a prayer asking God to transform the land into a different kind of farm where His love would be sown, nurtured, grown, and harvested – sending ripples of His Kingdom throughout the community.
At the end of this service, council members and life group leaders led four groups of people to each corner of the property where they prayed and claimed the land in Jesus’ name, symbolically driving the stakes into the hard, hard ground. Many people took stakes home to do the same thing.
I’d like to note that one person, Dee Goodban, was there almost the entire 12+ hours. She helped set things up, brought decorations for the prayer station, manned the station for 8 long, hot hours by herself, and helped pack things up at the end. As hot as it was, I don’t know how she managed it but she did, and she did it with a smile on her face all day. She is such a trooper.
Thanks Paul, for coming up with this idea. The Queen Creek campus is beginning a transition period and this gave us the opportunity to sanctify and consecrate the land and ourselves to God’s purposes and will. It was a great day. |
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By Mike Fleming - Glendale
We had a prayer workshop at our Glendale campus on May 28th. We discussed quite a few topics. Like, What is the point of prayer when God knows the future and is already in control of everything? If we cannot change God's mind, why should we pray? We want to help you explore what prayer is — and what it isn’t. And as we explore how God designed prayer and modeled it for us through Jesus, we can understand how to better approach this conversation with a holy and loving God. It was a great time together to learn and grow. I hope to see you at the next one. |
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By Paul Covert and Kim Butts
Praying the scripture is a wonderful and powerful way to pray. My friend Kim Butts wrote this great piece entitled 27 REASONS TO PRAY THE WORD OF GOD. I think you will enjoy it.
Praying Scripture is powerful and effective because:
1. Jesus is the Word. (John 1:1-2, 14)
2. It is the example of Jesus. (Matthew 4:1-11)
3. It is the example of the early Church. (Book of Acts; Acts 4:23-31)
4. His Word is His will. (Timothy 3:16-17)
- Scripture teaches us to know and fulfill God’s will. (John 5:14-15)
- Scripture teaches us God’s will for His Kingdom (knowing what is on God’s heart). (John 6:38, John 14:10, John 13:34-35, 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Matthew 9:37-38, John 17:20-26)
- Scripture teaches God’s will for our place in His Kingdom. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17, Philippians 2:13, Isaiah 30:21, Isaiah 48:17, Psalm 86:11, Psalm 119:105, Romans 12:2)
5. God’s Word allows us to pray the blessings and purposes of God for ourselves and others. (1 Timothy 4:12, Numbers 6:24-26, 2 Thessalonians 3:5, 16; Romans 15:13, 2 Corinthians 13:14, 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)
6. Praying the Word gives us confidence and power in our prayer. (John 15:7, Matthew 21:22, 1 John 5:14-15)
7. The Word of God gives us a beautiful, full, rich vocabulary of prayer. (Psalm 145 and the rest of the book of Psalms)
8. The Word of God helps us to keep our prayer lives fresh and exciting. (Hebrews 4:12, John 15:7)
9. The word of God is flawless. (Psalm 12:6, Psalm 18:30)
10. The Word of God will stand forever. (Luke 21:33, 1 Peter 1:25, Psalm 119:89)
11. Praying the Word of God helps us to develop an intimate relationship with Him and a desire to know Him better. (Psalm 63:1-8)
12. His Word reminds us to stay focused upon Him in prayer. (Psalm 141:8a, 2 Chronicles 20:12c)
13. Praying the Word, which is the sword of the Spirit, gives us authority to stand against the enemy. (Ephesians 6:10-18, Psalm 44:5, Psalm 8:2)
14. Praying the Word of God and hearing it prayed, builds our faith in God’s ability to hear and answer. (Romans 10:17, James 5:15)
15. Praying the Word of God allows the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. (Ephesians 6:17, John 14:26)
16. Praying the Word of God gives us an expression of confession for our sinful natures. (Luke 18:13)
17. Praying the Word of God protects us from sin. (Psalm 119:11)
18. Praying the Word helps us to pray about our own obedience to the Word. (Psalm 119:33-37, James 1:22)
19. Praying the Word out loud brings blessings when we obey what we hear. (Luke 11:28)
20. His Word will always accomplish what He desires. (Isaiah 55:11)
21. The promises of His Word encourage and uplift us. (Joshua 1:5, Jeremiah 29:11-13)
22. Praying God’s Word is powerful because it is the TRUTH. (John 17:17, John 8:31-32, Psalm 33:4, Ephesians 1:13)
23. It pleases the heart of God to respond to prayers that delight Him, and we know that His Word gives Him pleasure. (1 John 3:21-22)
24. The boldness of praying the Word strengthens our witness to unbelievers. (1 Peter 2:15)
25. Praying the Word helps us to stand on a firm foundation. (Luke 6:47-48)
26. Praying the Word of God helps us to receive all that God has created with thankfulness and to set these things apart as holy. (1 Timothy 4:4-5, Psalm 33:6, 1 Chronicles 16:23-36)
27. We should pray Scripture SO THAT God is honored and glorified. (John 11:4, John 14:13, Psalm 145:10-12).
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Prayer in the News
By Mark Merold
Answered Prayers: More Of The 276 Abducted Chibok Girls Released
It’s been over three years since the girls were taken from their school in Borno by Boko Haram fighters. Many were forced to convert and marry. Christians around the world have continued to pray for their safety and release. Recently, for 82 of them, those prayers have been answered. Read an article at the opendoorsusa.org.
Prayer: A Protective Barrier During Spiritual Warfare
An article at lancasteronline.com reminds readers to gird themselves with prayer when doing battle with evil. Read it!
Power Of Prayer: Baseball Legend Recounts How Christ And Prayer Changed His Life Forever
A news segment called “Power of Prayer” features a story about Darryl Strawberry, who was one of the biggest names in baseball during the 80s and 90s. During the interview, Strawberry shares how Christ changed his life. Read and watch on the website for ABC affiliate, Channel 7 in Tyler TX. |
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BONUS Content >>>SCROLL for RELATED COMMENTARY by GUEST-POSTERS + FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS
May Newsletter
“Staking your Claim for Jesus”
This year because the calendar is so full around the National Day of Prayer May 4, we are going to provide several options for you to choose from. First of all, you can pray over our nation from your home using this pamphlet, A Scriptural Prayer for Good Government as a starter. It is very good and you will get some great ideas from it. Second, you can gather with others on your campus for prayer. We highly encourage this. Each campus will be doing something different. Please sign up atCentralAZ.com/NDP.By Paul Covert
In Mesa, we will meet at 7 p.m. at Lift in the CLI Room under the blue awning of the New Life Center to pray for the nation. If there ever was a time our nation needed prayer, it is now! We will be spending that hour “staking our claim for Jesus” and in prayer for our nation.
In Gilbert, we will be having “Coffee with Jesus” as we start the day in prayer for the nation. Begin in the Gilbert campus lobby at 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. with your family or Life Group in a circle of chairs or at interactive tables with strategic prayers to help get you started. You will receive a tent peg with scriptures on it and a pamphlet to assist you with praying for our nation as you circle the campus or your own community.
In Ahwatukee, a time of focusing prayers for our nation will begin at 7 p.m. in the Prayer Room. Materials will be provided and participants will “stake their claim for Jesus” as they leave, taking prayers and scripture into their neighborhoods and favorite spots around their communities. Please come and join us. If you have any questions, call Cathy Cryer at480.459.0904.
In Queen Creek, we will be “staking a claim for Jesus.” We will be combining the National Day of Prayer and prayer over our Queen Creek property. There will be a prayer station with a table and chairs under a tent on the new property from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. We will also provide a prayer guide for the day. People can come and pray for our nation throughout the day. At 7 p.m., everyone and anyone is welcome to come back and we'll drive a stake on the property claiming it for Christ. Then we'll split up into 2 or 3 person platoons and head out to our neighborhoods and strategic intersections around the QC/STV area and do the same thing.
In Glendale, we will be providing National Day of Prayer guides at a lobby table on the 23rd of April. This will enable our people and families to effectively and fervently pray for government, church, military, family, education, media, and businesses wherever they are on May 4th. Also, we will be using the tent pegs with scriptures on them during the Mobilize Event on April 30. A prayer team will place a tent peg at the four corners of each school as they prayer walk the location. Finally, members of the Glendale Prayer Team will place tent pegs at strategic locations around our church and Glendale May 1st to May 4th as we pray for our city and nation. I hope you will take part!
Our nation needs your prayer!
I Timothy 2:1-4 “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Threshold Intensive
By Paul Covert
Paul Covert, Prayer Pastor at Central, and members of the Prayer Leadership team hosted the Threshold Intensive in April for representatives of five churches who wanted to draw on our teaching and experience to develop prayer ministries in their home churches. We had 28 people participate from 10 different states.
The week began with Intercessory Prayer on April 2 during the Sunday worship service at 9 a.m. in Mesa, and continued until April 6. Each day, the classes met from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and often extended the day by visiting other prayer ministries or prayer sessions in the evenings. Paul purposely kept the class size small to allow time for individual questions, interaction, and discussion pertinent to those participating.
Comments from those attending previous Thresholds often echo this one:
"The Threshold Intensive was an amazing experience for me! It renewed my passion for prayer and gave many practical handles for growing a prayer ministry in the local church. In addition to Paul's excellent teaching, you will hear from key staff and lay leaders at Central and be exposed to significant prayer leaders and ministries in the Phoenix area. The Threshold was some of the best money I have spent for a conference in a long time. If your heart beats for prayer, check out the Threshold Intensive!"
Mike Frantz
Prayer Pastor
Discovery Bible Fellowship
Prayer Devotional
Are you looking for a great prayer devotional? Check out Harvest Prayer Ministries, "Devotions for Every Day Life".
Prayer in the News
By Mark Merold
Thursday May 4th Is The National Day Of Prayer
This year’s theme is “For Your Great Name's Sake! Hear Us ...Forgive Us ...Heal Us!” Websites, papers, and broadcasters all across the nation are filled with announcements regarding the National Day of Prayer, like this one on the Fairmont Bugle webpage (read). Tens of thousands of Christians whether alone or with others will be praying. Will you join them? For more info, visit the National day of Prayer website.
700,000 Attend A Day Of Prayer Gathering In South Africa
“This is a Christian country! Jesus is Lord!” proclaimed Angus Buchan, a farmer who became a preacher. Read and watch a video posted in an article at churchleaders.com. Read another article on this topic at the News24 website.
Egyptian Christians Pray And Persevere After Attack
Even after the bombings that killed 44 Coptic Christians, believers in Egypt stand firm in their faith and pray for those who persecute them. Full story at the BP website. Read a related article the National Public Radio website.
January Newsletter
Next School of Prayer
By Paul Covert
It is hard to believe I am in my fourteenth year of prayer ministry at Central! We have tried lots of things. Some of them have worked well, and others not as well. But this we know: Simply put, you learn more about prayer by praying than by attending a class. It is in this vein that we have designed the next generation School Of Prayer.
We are calling it a “prayer experience,” because we will lead you through several prayer experiences to strengthen your understanding and effectiveness in prayer.
One of those is a prayer experience on “Praying for a loved one.” This prayer experience is getting rave reviews, so we want to expose you to it also.
When: Sunday, January 22, 2017, from 3-6 pm
Where: Gilbert Campus in the Outback
Who: You are invited to join with us in experiencing a journey of guided prayer designed to instruct and increase your effectiveness in prayer life.
Cost: The event is free of charge, but it is important to sign up online ahead of time to reserve your space.
To register: Please register at CentralAZ.com/SOP.
Please join us for this journey of prayer
Blessings,
Paul Covert
Prayer Pastor Central Christian Church
Threshold Intensive
By Paul CovertEach year in April, prayer leaders from across the country gather at Central for our Threshold Intensive to learn about prayer ministry from our staff and prayer leaders. We also take them to other churches in the valley and expose them to other ways and styles of prayer ministry. These training times continue to receive rave reviews.
Here is what Mike Franz Prayer Pastor wrote about his experience at Threshold
"The Threshold Intensive was an amazing experience for me! It renewed my passion for prayer and gave many practical handles for growing a prayer ministry in the local church. In addition to Paul’s excellent teaching, you will hear from key staff and lay leaders at Central and be exposed to significant prayer leaders and ministries in the Phoenix area. The Threshold was some of the best money I have spent for a conference in a long time. If your heart beats for prayer, check out the Threshold Intensive!"
Mike Frantz
Prayer Pastor
Discovery Bible Fellowship
I’d like to ask you how you might consider helping us in this prayer effort. Here are the areas we would greatly appreciate your help:
- Scholarships
The four-day Threshold conference costs $250 for each participant. This covers meals, valley transportation, and conference materials.- Housing
Some of the prayer leaders come from smaller churches and can cover the tuition and travel, but struggle to include lodging. Could you host one of these prayer leaders in your home? They would need their own bathroom and a room to themselves. We would also ask for help with transportation to and from the conference each day.I know these are big asks, but it is for a great cause. If we can get more churches to pray more effectively, then we have done a great thing.
Thank you for the ways you can contribute to this effort!
A New Year and A New
By Brittany Walker
Each New Year’s resolution is a footprint toward the legacy we are leaving. We start the year off with new health regimens to live longer, feel better, and have more energy. We plan our schedules and make sure we have just enough time to get each task done. Have you made time to make New Year’s resolutions for your spiritual legacy yet?
In John 9:1-4 Jesus saw a blind man walking. The disciples inquired as to why this man could not see. Was it his sin or his parent’s sin that caused him to be blind? Notice Jesus’ response to His disciples in John 9:5-7, “5 ‘While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.’ 6 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 ‘Go,’ he told him, ‘wash in the Pool of Siloam’ (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.” This nameless man could not see Jesus, only hear Him. He was not given warning that the mud on his face was made by saliva or that it would be rubbed on his eyes. Just by walking by Jesus and having this short interaction, this man’s legacy was changed. He was restored, he was healed, and he was renewed.
I cannot help but think if we take a short time to give our burdens to Jesus how He might renew, heal, and restore us. When Jesus does this, our legacy changes. Also, spiritual renewal takes time and work much like the example of the blind man. He had to walk, wash, and clean his eyes from the mud before he was healed. We can change our legacy with short moments of prayer throughout the day. We can give Jesus our resolutions, and he can bring light to them. We could start this New Year off simply by making a spiritual resolution and leaving a new footprint to our legacy.
Prayer in the News
Intentional Prayer Methods: Eight SuggestionsBy Mark Merold
An article at reddit offers 8 ideas that can help improve your ability to pray regularly and fervently. Read it here.
Leading In The Need Of Prayer
The power of prayer in the name of Jesus is so awesome that when our prayers are answered we are often utterly amazed at how God works to accomplish His will. Here are some signs that we could be underestimating the Lord’s mighty power.Full article at Baptist Press.
Happy New Year: A Prayer for the New Year
A written prayer reminds us to keep trusting the Lord in the year ahead. Read it here.
February Newsletter
200 For Easter
By Paul Covert
Do you know that one of the largest churches in the 1800’s was in London England? The pastor was Charles Spurgeon.
Each Sunday they had 10,000 people for worship, but what is most interesting to me is that 1,000 people were in the basement praying for those in the service. If you were to ask him, Spurgeon would say, “The power for his services came from God and prayers of the people willing to sacrificially pray for others.”
As you know, people will be attending our EasterServices this year who do not know Christ or do not have a regular church home. Because we see these services as vital we have a goal to get 200people to pray for those services!
Would you consider being one of those people to attend an Easter Service and then pray during one of the services for those who will be attending who don’t yet know Christ? Since we have seventeen services, it should be easy to select another service.
I know what you are thinking.
“I might feel pressure to pray out loud” – no! Some will pray out loud and others will pray silently. You will experience no pressure of any kind.
“I have never prayed very long….I don’t think I can do that.” We don’t pray the entire time. The room will be filled with people and we take turns and mix it up so no one prays very long. You will find the time flies by.
“Will we have someone who leads us in this time of prayer?” Yes!! And we have developed a system that works well and ensures that no one ever feels uncomfortable.
Registration will be coming soon.
What if I have questions? You can contact Brittany at Brittany.Walker@centralaz.com.
Can I bring my children? Sure. Many do as long as they can sit still.
Can our small group come as a group? You bet! We have many small groups that do this.
Where do I go?
Peace Conference
By Leisa McDonaldPeace Conference Prayer Requests:
- People from around the community would desire to participate in learning about peacemaking
- Participants would be willing to listen and hear other perspectives
- Participants would be challenged to become everyday peacemakers in their homes and communities
The conference will takes place February 24th, 2017 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at each of our Campus Locations*. Registration cost is $20 until Feb. 6th, and $30 from Feb. 6th-24th. Register online at: WWW.CentralAZ.Com/Peace*Queen Creek’s Conference will be held at the Library Annex. See registration information foraddress.
Thank you for the opportunity to have this covered in prayer by your ministry team!
Queen Creek Campus
Our Queen Creek Campus will be breaking ground Fall 2017.By Brittany Walker
Please pray for:
- Unity for the Campus as they serve together.
- Direction for our leaders throughout the permitting process.
- Each person's role as they grow as an owner of the mission of central.
Please feel free to join us on February 11th to prayer walk our future campus on Signal Butte and Ocotillo. Please contact Nicole.Welty@CentralAZ.com if you have any questions or want more info.Prayer Devotional
Are you looking for a great prayer devotional? Check out Harvest Prayer Ministries, "Devotions forEvery Day Life".
Prayer in the News
By Mark Merold
Prayer: How To Recognize Answers!
Ever wondered if you’ve failed to see an answer to your prayers? This brief but insightful article shares four ways to recognize answers to prayer. Have you ever put any of these into practice? Read moreat Faith in the News.
Prayer Missed By Injured Ravens Player
After being out of the game for nearly all the 2016 NFL season, what did Baltimore Ravens tight end Benjamin Watson say that he missed most? Read the article at the BCNN website.
Student’s Impromptu Prayer At High School Comforts Mourners
Many may recall the death of young classmate and how it impacted their young minds. Here is one young man’s impromptu public prayer to comfort his classmates after the unexpected loss of a fellow high-school student. Full Story at Breaking Christian News.
Events
Weekly LIFT
Mesa: Thursday nights except the 1st Thursday of the Month
7 p.m. CLI Room
Underground Faith Prayer
Mesa: 1st Thursday 7 p.m. CLI Room
Prayer Intersession
Every Worship Service All Campuses
Moms In Prayer International
Mesa: Every Monday
8 a.m. MC153
7 p.m. CLI Room
Night of Prayer
Gilbert: March 3, at 7 p.m.
Click here to get more info.
Threshold Intensive
April 2-6, 2017
Click here to get more info.
December Newsletter
The Uninvited Dinner Guest
By Brittany Walker
Holiday season is around the corner, which means holiday dinners with friends, family, and guests. Guests often include those who are invited, the surprise uninvited guest, and/or the infamous “Can I bring someone” guest. Often we also invite family we don’t necessarily want to invite: family members no one talks to any other time of the year, “but it’s the right thing to do, because no one should be alone for the holidays.”
With all this in mind, did we forget to invite the most important guest, Jesus, into our holiday?
Holidays can be stressful, but I am reminded of the nameless woman who wasn’t invited to a special dinner, but went to Jesus anyway. Starting in Luke 36-38, “36 When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, He went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume.38 As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.”
Let’s picture this together. Jesus was reclined at a banquet table with other dinner guests when a woman entered the home uninvited and stood at Jesus’ unwashed feet. She wept, kissed, and rained tears from her face on His feet. She then anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume and wiped them with her hair. An audience of unwelcoming people watched it all. She ran to the Savior, uninvited by the Pharisees, but welcomed by Jesus. She came broken, vulnerable, and with love.
The Pharisees judged Jesus because He let a sinner touch His feet. Jesus addressed the Pharisees so eloquently, telling them the great things she had just done, reminding them that the uninvited guest treated Him better than they did. “50 Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
As you welcome people to your home during the holidays, both the invited and the uninvited, make sure you assume the role of the uninvited guest as well as the host! Prayer is both the invitation you send Jesus and the humble recognition of our brokenness and vulnerable need for Him. It’s the communication from our voice to God’s ear. It allows us to be in relationship with Him as this nameless woman was with Jesus.
Step one: Recognize yourself as openly broken, seeking the Savior – inviting Him into your life -- through prayer. Step Two: Don’t fool yourself that you have it all together. Realize you can’t do it alone. Go vulnerably to Jesus and give Him your heart. Step Three: Walk in love, faith, and peace because His forgiveness has covered you.
Approaching Jesus in this fashion will make the holidays less stressful and more fulfilling.
What Have We Learned After 14 Years of Prayer Ministry at Central?
By Paul CovertSimply put, you learn more about prayer by praying than by attending classes. It is in this vein that we have designed the next School Of Prayer.
We are calling it a “prayer experience,” because we will be leading you through several prayer experiences that will strengthen your understanding and effectiveness in prayer.
On Sunday, January 22, 2017, we are holding our next School of Prayer at the Gilbert Campus from 3 to 6 p.m.
You are invited to join with us in experiencing a journey of guided prayer designed to instruct and increase your effectiveness in prayer life and prayer practice.
The event is free of charge, but it is important to sign up online ahead of time to reserve your space. Please register at CentralAZ.com/SOP.
Please consider joining us for the journey of prayer we will be taking together.
Threshold Intensive
By Paul Covert
Threshold Intensive is a four-day interactive immersion in prayer ministry for church teams, prayer leaders, college students, and/or anyone looking to expand their prayer life. The hands-on sessions provide foundational information about prayer, as well as practical suggestions for growth and development in prayer and prayer ministries of all types. Built into this experience is time to learn and to pray into practice what has been taught. Intentional leaders who want to grow prayer in their church or ministry will find this time invaluable and insightful.
Some of the topics you can expect to cover during the Threshold Intensive experience:
· Why pray?
· How to evaluate your church's prayer effectiveness
· Recruiting men to pray
· Learning to make prayer relevant
· Infiltrating each ministry of your church with prayer
· Building a model for prayer that will work in your ministry
· Cultivating a prayer team
· Kinds of prayer
· New and fresh ways to pray personally
· The importance of a prayer journal
· Prayer journeys
· What is working in prayer around the country right now?
· Multi-site prayer ministries
· Winning the buy-in of leadership or the team
Where:
Central Christian Church -Mesa Campus
933 N Lindsay Rd
Mesa, AZ 85213
Dates and Times:
Sunday, April 2, 2017: Service Intercession at 9 am, worship 10:45 am
Monday, April 3 through Thursday, April 6, 2016: 9 am to 5 pm, unless notated otherwise
You are encouraged to join us on Sunday, April 2 to experience prayer and worship during our services.
Cost:
$250 per person (does not include lodging or transportation to the conference)
Discounts may apply, contact Paul Covert for more details.
Paul.Covert@centralaz.com or (480) 924-4946 ext. 335
Registration has begun atCentralAZ.com/Threshold. Registrants must register for this event and provide direct contact information. If you are registering someone else, please provide their contact information where they may be reached directly for updates.
Cancellation Policy-Due to limited seating availability, all cancellations after March 1, 2017 will only be refunded at 50% of the full registration fee.
Prayer in the News
By Mark Merold
Strategies Used to Stop Prayer
Prayer is a powerful weapon against evil. Satan knows that his time is short, and there are some common strategies that the evil one uses to prevent Christians from praying, including his knowledge and misuse of true facts and the Word of God. Read this article and then do the thing that Satan tries so desperately to prevent—pray!
Something to Pray About: Choosing to Give Thanks!
During the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year seasons, many suffer from sadness, anxiety, fear, loneliness, regret, ill health, bitterness, hopelessness, or envy about what others have and disappointment over what they don’t have. You might find yourself wishing you had a more loving family, a good friend or more of good friends, more money, more energy, or more appreciation from your children, grandchildren, spouse, or a seemingly stingy boss. Maybe many of your feelings seem perfectly justified. But remember, no matter what your circumstances, you can pray, and even if your prayer begins by asking God to make you aware of something to be thankful for—you can choose to give thanks. Read this article at The Huffington Post and then pray and see what God will do.
A Reminder to Pray For Those Who Spend Christmas Serving Our Country
As we celebrate Christmas, many in our military will be on duty guarding our nation and placing their lives on the line to protect our interests all around the world. Read this reminder to pray for them and their families, posted on the Journey Christian News website.
Wichita Citywide Prayer
Take a look here at this incredible prayer movement that is happening in Wichita.
Events
Weekly LIFT
Mesa: Thursday nights except the 1st Thursday of the Month
7 p.m. CLI Room
Underground Faith Prayer
Mesa: 1st Thursday 7 p.m. CLI Room
Prayer Intersession
Every Worship Service All Campuses
Moms In Prayer International
Mesa: Every Monday
8 a.m. MC153
7 p.m. CLI Room
School of Prayer
Gilbert: January 22 at 3 p.m.
Click here to get more info.
View this email in your browser
Events
Weekly LIFTS
Mesa: Thursday nights except the 1st Thursday of the Month 7 p.m. CLI Room
Underground Faith Prayer
Mesa: 1st Thursday 7 p.m. CLI Room
Prayer Intersession
Every Worship Service All Campuses
Moms In Prayer International
Mesa: Mondays 7 p.m. Room 254a
School Of Prayer
Gilbert: April 3,
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Register Online
24/7 Prayer
Ahwatukee:
May 2-3
Glendale:
May 6-7
Mesa:
May 9 -13
Gilbert:
May 9 - 13
March Newsletter
Excitement for 24-7 is Growing!
By Paul Covert
10 Reasons to Participate
The average American only prays 30 seconds a day. The 24-7 allows you the time needed to connect in an unhurried, private and personal fashion.
Only in unhurried times with God will some things come to the surface to be shared with Him. His responses are heard best in quiet stillness.
Because our prayer lives sometimes “run off track into a rut,” praying through the 24-7 Prayer Room offers a creative “shot” in that routine to bring us back to enthusiasm and excitement about prayer.
This year’s theme is “Praying the Heart of God”. This promises to be our strongest 24-7 yet!
Stations in the Prayer Room are built for one or two adults to come through them comfortably. Families can squeeze all the kids in with parents if you want to experience it as a family. Life Groups can attend together and sometimes they debrief later over coffee about all their experiences.
The 24-7 hour of prayer is so impacting that major decisions are sometimes made by those participating and life change is a regular occurrence. As we take time to seek God on important issues in our lives, He responds with answers we recognize as clearly from Him.
The 24-7 will come conveniently to your campus. In the early days, there was only one 24-7 Prayer Room, but it will move to four of our five Central campuses this year. Those of you in Queen Creek will need to attend the Gilbert 24-7 since you do not have a weekday venue.
This opportunity only comes along once a year, so don’t miss out!
Coming to the Lord together, praying for the same things, at the same time, builds a close sense of community, and an encouraging unity among us that is strong and deeply fulfilling.
Jesus has invited you to come and talk with Him. He loves these times with you!
Registration will open April 1st
AHWATUKEE (LOBBY)... May 2-3
GLENDALE (WORSHIP CENTER)...May 6-7
MESA (CHAPEL) ...May 9-13
GILBERT (WORSHIP CENTER - S.E. LOBBY)... May 9-13
See you there!
Paul and Cathy
Churches are Thirsty for Prayer Ministry
By Paul Covert
This last weekend Paul spoke at Discovery Bible Fellowship in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The church had a weekend of prayer emphasis and training. Their prayer pastor Mike Franz is a tremendous guy with a huge heart for prayer. He attended our Threshold Prayer Training in 2014 and invited Paul to come and train them and then lead their Sunday morning services.
We have been praying that God would begin a movement of prayer. It is things like this event and others that are so encouraging. Please pray with us for a movement of prayer in the US. God knows we need it.
Is 41:18 “I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs.”
Prayer in the News
Prayer When Facing Tremendous Sorrow
The loss of a child has cast despair and doubt in the lives of many Christians. The way in which individuals get through their suffering is unique to all. Here is the story of how one couple is dealing with the loss of their son. Read and watch at CBS affiliate kfvs12.c0m
http://www.kfvs12.com/story/31321842/the-power-of-prayer-overcoming...
The U.S. President Speaks At Recent National Prayer Breakfast
“For me, and I know for so many of you, faith is the great cure for fear. Jesus is a good cure for fear. God gives believers the power, the love, the sound mind required to conquer any fear. And what more important moment for that faith than right now? What better time than these changing, tumultuous times to have Jesus standing beside us, steadying our minds, cleansing our hearts, pointing us towards what matters.´” Read the full transcript at usnews.com.
Prayer For Oil Field Workers
After years of high prices at the pump, many are rejoicing over affordable gas prices. However, for some, low oil prices are devastating. As families of oil field workers in Levellan, Texas struggle with job loss, the town’s citizens gathered to pray for them.Read and watch a brief report from ksla.com
http://www.ksla.com/story/31334713/levelland-citizens-host-a-prayer...
NEED PRAYER?
Prayer Calendar
Weekly LIFTS
Mesa Campus
Thursday nights except the 1st Thursday of the month, 7 p.m.
CLI Room
Ahwatukee Campus
TBA
January, 2016
Time Alone with God
Next meeting TBA
Meet at
Mesa Campus, then
drive to Usery Park
Prayer Intercession
Every Worship Service
All Campuses
Moms In Prayer
International
Mesa Campus
Mondays 7 p.m.
Room 254a
-------
Wednesdays
8:30 a.m.,
Room 250
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Click here for more information
North Africa Prayer
2nd and 4th Monday
Nights, Times and Locations TBA
Underground Faith Prayer
Mesa Campus
1st Thursday
7 p.m., CLI Room
Helpful Web Links
Prayer Web Page
Prayer Calendar
Presidential Prayer Team
Prayer Hero Testimonies
All About Prayer
Start A Prayer Ministry
Cry Out Now
Tearfund Prayer Zone
24-7 International
International House Of Prayer
Hollywood Prayer Network
Community of Prayers
Moms n Prayer
View Previous Newsletters Here
Join Our Mailing List
December 2015
"As a community of believers, we seek God's guidance
and direction through prayer in all that we do
as a church and in all aspects of our daily lives."
Prayer is one of Central's six core values.
Click here to see them all.
Have You Ever Noticed What
God Is Looking For In The Bible?
By Paul Covert, Prayer Pastor
In my devotions the other day I detected something new to me. God is looking for something according to Ezekiel 22:30. He is looking for pray-ers. That struck me. The God of the universe is looking for pray-ers. Is that amazing or what? What a privilege we have to pray!
With that thought in mind, each year we do a Threshold Intensive (TI) to help other churches and pastors improve their prayer lives and the prayer at their churches. We have seen strong response to TI each year, but for some reason this year's response is off the charts. Obviously, when we sense God is up something, we tune in.
This year's Threshold Intensive is April 17-21, and frankly, this year we could use some help.
-- Prayer. I would like to ask you to include the participants and the churches that are attending TI in your prayers. We are not merely interested in getting a gathering of people, but rather, in seeing God do a transformational work.
-- We have a couple of people interested in attending and growing in prayer who need a scholarship to this event. They have airfare and lodging covered but need a scholarship for the cost of TI, which totals $250 per person. That covers materials, meals, and transportation to the other churches we visit. Going on the road to other prayer programs and churches gives our TI people multiple perspectives on prayer and models to observe.
-- Also, a couple of people need a place to stay and transportation to and from the event.
For more info or to offer help, please contactPaul.Covert@CentralAZ.com
or Brittany.Walker@CentralAZ.com
Thanks for your willingness to pray about these things.
Please Welcome Brittany To Prayer Team
By Cathy Cryer, Associate Prayer Pastor
Brittany Walker is a rare find, and the Prayer Team is thanking God for her!
First, she actually is a native of Arizona!
Second, she prayerfully, obediently, and bravely quit her job just to come work (unpaid!) in the Prayer office and learn the ropes, grow in prayer, and to serve to help Central become more a house of prayer as God calls it to be.
Thirdly, she is no bigger than a minute, often wears four-inch heals to almost reach her hubby's shoulder height, and loves riding a Harley!
She always took prayer seriously, she said, but a life-changing event in 2011 that sent her into lots of prayer also brought her to new passion for prayer and understanding of an incredible God who calls us to that prayer so He can answer faithfully, powerfully and with His loving presence.
So, four years ago, she tried to get a prayer group started among young people at another church. But it was going nowhere.
Enter Kevin, who attended Central, but was checking out the group. They happily figure God sent him there just to find his future wife and bring her back to Central with him--which is what he did about a year ago. They were married June 27!
Their courtship included not only time on
the Harley and serving in prayer with
the Christian Motorcycle Association, but also one hip surgery, one appendectomy, and one wisdom tooth extraction for her. That plus other occasions led to frequent times of prayer together. On their wedding day (see the photo here) they refused to go to the altar until they had time to pray together about this momentous step. So, without seeing each other, they prayed around a doorpost.
Here at Central, Brittany and Kev got involved with the 923 group, where again, she longed to focus on prayer. (See next story.) She found no resistance here, and so is excited about forming a prayer team for that ministry. So much so that she called Paul Covert to see if he had any tips for her. She had no idea, she said, how much was available and offered here at Central in Prayer. She wanted to learn from Paul.
At that time, she was working at Phoenix Children's Hospital as a patient access representative. After meeting Paul and learning that help was needed in the Prayer Office, though unpaid, she and Kev started praying about the possibility of her volunteering here. God made it clear that she could take that leap of faith.
She quit her job and started full-time in the Prayer Office Tuesday, Oct. 20! She is helping with logistics and computer savvy issues.
"I found it hard to do both work and prayer ministry," she said. And Kev has been supportive and in agreement about this change.
Gilbert had been their home campus, but now Mesa is becoming home too. She will help with Prayer in Gilbert and Mesa on weekends as well.
Please welcome Brittany to the Prayer Team!
9:23 Develops Prayer Ministry
By Brittany Walker, Servant Minister in Prayer
9:23 is our young adult ministry here at Central for people ages 18 to 29. We meet Thursdays in the Student Center at the Gilbert campus at 7 p.m. to eat; our program starts at 7:30 p.m. The name "9:23" comes from Luke 9:23, "Then He said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.'"
Within the 9:23 group, we have a prayer team made up of 10 young people who rotate weekly as prayer partners to pray with others. It's been exciting to recruit this team, develop parameters for how we will serve, and be able to watch this ministry grow as more people respond to it and come forward to ask for prayer each week!
God has blessed 9:23 with great leadership that values prayer and young people. If you are between 18 and 29, come join us - ask for prayer, serve on the Prayer Team, or just hang out!
Ahwatukee's Prayer Relay
Offers Dinner And A Movie Too!
Walkers for Ahwatukee's Prayer Relay will step off with prayer baton in hand at 9 a.m. Saturday, December 12 to circle Ahwatukee, parts of Tempe and Chandler. Each group of pray-ers will cover one mile in prayer.
The event will culminate with a dinner celebration at 5 p.m. at the Ahwatukee campus, a worship segment, and viewing the movie "War Room" at 6 p.m. Those who do not walk in the relay are also invited to attend the dinner and movie. Child care will be provided for the movie portion of the evening.
To register for a mile of the relay, follow this link:https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/30E0E45A4A72AA0FA7-ahwatukee
An online sign up for dinner and child care will be available soon. Watch for it online, sign up in the lobby, or contact Cathy Cryer, cryer228@msn.com , or 480-459- 0904.
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Prayer in the News Logo
Rebar, The Right Tool, A Torn Shirt And Prayer
"Expect the Unexpected," was the theme of many short stories by famed writer, Jack London. This is pretty good advice considering that we really never know what a day will bring, whether it be good, bad, or somewhere in between. Here is a story of how the Lord prepared a construction worker and used a piece of shirt to rescue a coworker when the two of them were confronted with "the unexpected." Read the Associated Press story at www.nola.com.
Prayers For Paris
Following the news of the brutal attacks in Paris, millions around the world gathered to ask the Lord to bring healing and comfort. "They won't even know we were here, but we will and God will. If there were lots of these small groups everywhere, I mean that makes one loud voice." Read and watch atksla.com, Shreveport, LA. Read and watch another report atwbrc.com, Fox54. Read another story at breakingChristiannews.com. Many politicians were among those urging prayer for the victims and the people of France.Read about it at wnd.com..
Prayers To Thank, Honor And Protect Our Veterans
On Veteran's Day, many remembered to include prayer for those men and women who defend and have defended our freedom. Our currently serving and returning military personnel face very uncertain and challenging times; remember to pray for them. Read a blog entitled "A Veterans Day Prayer" at crosswalk.com.
Prayers For The Persecuted Church
On November 1st, thousands of Christian groups and churches worldwide held prayer services in response to the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. David Curry, the CEO of Open Doors said, '"Time and time again, those living under persecution and those who are refugees from it tell us that their greatest need is hope--hope found in their faith and hope born of the knowledge that Christians in the free world are remembering them in prayer." Full article atstandardnewswire.com. Read another article on this topic atchristianitytoday.com.
Prayers Continue For Saeed Abedini And His Wife
Naghmeh Abedini, the wife of imprisoned Boise pastor Saeed Abedini, announced she is withdrawing from public life for a time of prayer and rest. Saeed has been held in Iran for more than three years after Iranian authorities accused him of trying to undermine national security by setting up home churches."Full story at KTVB.com. Continue to pray for Saeed and his family, pray that the Lord will open those prison doors and release him.
Prayer: What To Do About Your Enemies
Most of us, at one time or another, experience hatred toward someone at some point in our lives. However, as Christians, we must follow Christ. We know that when His teachings are consistently put into practice, our lives and the lives of others are somehow changed. Imagine how challenging it must be for those who experience the trials of war, persecution, or severe personal or physical injury, to love those who have hated them and done them great harm. What a challenge the Lord has put before us-but with him, all things are possible.Read: Prayer for My Enemy at montgomeryadvertiser.com.
Michigan Coaches Share Thought Regarding Prayer In Public School Sports
Prayer at public events, particularly at sporting events, continues to make many headlines these days. Read and watch a report regarding the opinions of coaches in Northern Michigan at upnorthlive.com.
Irony Regarding Prayer In The USA Noted In Tweet By Watson Of New Orleans Saints
After observing many in government mention prayer following the tragic events in Paris, Benjamin Watson, tight end for the New Orleans Saints, sent out a thought provoking tweet. Read it at churchleaders.com.
Pennsylvania Legislators Urge Prayer For The USA
"People just need to be reminded that from the very beginning, God has been a part of the founding of our country and he's still there but there's an effort to kick him to the curb in our culture today." Read more at pennlivetoday.
Understanding Prayer
by John Maempa,
Director of Prayer &Spiritual Care
Assemblies of God, Springfield MO
Mr. Maekpa speaks about the purpose and power of prayer, what it is, how and why it works. He wants us to make prayer a lifestyle as well as an act. Listen to his comments and insights.
Click here to listen
On Our Knees for Central
The church, like the individuals who comprise it, is in constant need of prayer. Please join us as we ask for God's guidance, help and blessing concerning the following: Read more here
GOOGLE DOCS
We use Google Docs as a way to store information on the web, so that you can easily access and read the articles that are interesting to you.
Google Docs recently changed their security levels, making it difficult for some to read the documents without registering for an account with them. This is a relatively simple process! If you follow the steps below, it should make things easier for you.
1. Click on Create an Account
2. Enter a current e-mail address that you use.
3. Choose a password
4. Choose your country location.
5. Add your birthday.
6. Accept the terms and conditions.
7. Click on verify account by e-mail.
8. Go to your e-mail in-box and click on the message that you have received from Google Docs.
9. Follow the instructions in your e-mail.
- People are encouraged to sign up for one hour of prayer.
- They come to the Prayer Room at the hour they selected.
- They spend time in each of 10 stations, made private by black drapes creating separate stations, all designed to be interactive and encourage prayer and closeness with God.
- Usually only one person (sometimes two) goes through the stations at a time, but sometimes whole families pray together.
- You do not have to pray out loud.
- You can spend more or less time in the various stations.
- You don't have to be a prayer expert to enjoy and grow from time in the 24-7 Prayer Room. We have many stories about novice pray-ers who discovered the power of prayer and God's answers at a 24-7 Prayer time!
If you would like to be a part of the excitement, there are several ways to be involved:Creating a Culture of Prayer
by Jeff Noel, Senior Pastor,
Grace Heartland Church,
Elizabethtown, KY
Pastor Noel gives us his insights on becoming and continuing to be multi-generational people of prayer. Listen to this one for yourself and for your family!
Click here to listen
All Campuses
For more details click here...
Prayer Calendar
Presidential Prayer Team
Prayer Hero Testimonies
All About Prayer
Start A Prayer Ministry
Cry Out Now
Tearfund Prayer Zone
24-7 International
International House Of Prayer
Hollywood Prayer Network
Community of Prayers
North Africa Prayer Journey
By Mike Fleming
After a long overseas flight, we arrived exhausted at our hotel. This quickly became a déjà vu experience for me. Ten years ago I went on a Prayer Journey with Paul Covert to Vietnam. When we arrived in country at our hotel in Hanoi we were told our reservations were in Ho Chi Minh City. Oops, that's a difference of 712 miles. Well this time, here we are in North Africa and Paul, the desk clerk, and an interpreter were having a lengthy discussion. I began to wonder if we had been booked into Bagdad? It turns out Paul had to renegotiate the price for our hotel for our team of five men and three women. We were starting our time in country with a call to prayer!
The focus on this trip was prayer, but I've been asked many times, "What did you do?" Short answer-pray. Long answer-pray in lots of different ways and in many different places. To give you a feel for a prayer journey, I will tell you about our fixed times of prayer during the first part of our trip.
On the first day, we met with a worker who focuses on the power of prayer and manages a prayer room. To be a member of his team you need to commit to 10 hours of praying in the prayer room, 10 hours of friendship building with local people, and 10 hours of language study each week. That's right, 30 intentional hours a week! Anybody ready to sign up?
To give us some perspective, we took a ride around the city perimeter. This also gave us a chance to pray around the city, asking God to give us His perspective for His people and this city. The area was vast and very crowded, with vertical living quarters everywhere we looked. Over 20 million people live in the city and surrounding suburbs.
That night we learned more about strategic praying, using three R's to begin. The R's are: Research, Relationship, and Revelation. We took a look at Scripture to see if we could get God's perspective on praying and focused on Isaiah 19.
Knitting Up Some Prayers And Shawls
By Cathy Cryer
The birth of a prayer shawl element of Central's Prayer Team was the ultimate goal one Saturday morning in July as people from the Ahwatukee campus gathered to brain storm a name for the group, share patterns and ideas, and pray.
There were knitters and people who prefer to crochet. There were magazines with patterns, and colorful bundles of yarn. There were sample shawls and lap robes.
There also were stories about how people have been encouraged by prayer shawls in their experience. One lady said her mom received a prayer shawl covered in prayers by her church in Washington. As she went through a difficult cancer treatment, she chilled easily and always asked first for her prayer shawl, and only after that, for blankets. The daughter knew the difference that shawl made for her mom, who doctors said might not make it, but who, to this day, loves that shawl and the prayers that had her covered through treatment.
For Nancy Tessler and Betsy Fish, it was the beginning they had been hoping for since dreaming up this new arm of the Prayer Ministry. Each of them has experienced similar ministries in other churches before moving here. They did not know one another previously, but discovered their similar desire to knit or crochet and pray on the lemonade Sunday this Spring when people were asked to step up and serve. They both did.
Initially the idea is to provide prayers for those in need of a physical touch from God and our church body. The knitted or crocheted items will be delivered by the Cares team who visit people in the hospital, nursing homes or at their own homes. They will be available for people in need from any campus, whether members or not. And if a member requests one for a loved one elsewhere, they are open to that request as well, if there is a supply available.
Should there be few needs at any given time here through Central, the group decided also to consider the needs of foster kids as they age out of the system, and abused women and their children in shelters.
Shawls will not be the only goal of this group since guys would probably prefer a lap robe instead of a shawl. Should a need for children be discovered, they will move on to small blankets, caps, scarves, and/or mittens.
The group's next meeting at the Ahwatukee campus will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 22nd.
If you know someone in need, or want information about the group, please contact Betsy at betsy.elf02@gmail.com or 480.619.0235, or Nancy at x-rayaz@hotmail.com .
If you are one of the people who participated in praying during this year's 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World, please continue to pray:
Save The Date For The Next
School Of Prayer!
Opportunities To Serve
At 24/7 Prayer Event!
There are people on each campus now recruiting for volunteers to serve as security guards (from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.), as well as hosts to serve during the times that the prayer rooms are open.
If you are willing to serve as a host or security person, please contact the person on your campus or Cathy Cryer atcathy.cryer@centralaz.com
It's that time of year again! Time to remember to get those back-to-school supplies, watch those school-zone speed limit signs and keep an eye out for increased student pedestrian and bike traffic; and in Hawkins County, TN, it's time to do what's most important of all; it's time to pray for our students and schools. Read all about it at timesnews.net, and remember to pray for our students and schools.
Remembering The Grissa University Attack: Stories Of Survival And Prayer Requests
Simon Kande, FOCUS deputy national director, says, "We are encouraging Christian students to love their Muslim neighbors and reach out to them with the love of Christ." They are holding on the scriptures to love their enemies. Full story atchristiantoday.com.
One answer was not what she hoped for, another was, and her faith remains strong. After a year of both sorrow and Joy, Rene Hartley, of Central, Louisiana, says, "...I know that prayer is real. The power of prayer is real." Watch and read atwafb.com.
The capsized boat of two 14-year-old boaters was found off the coast of Florida, but the two young boaters were not found. At the time of this writing, they had been missing two days. Hundreds gathered at Jupiter Christian School to pray for them. Read and watch at PalmBeachPost.com. Watch a report and read more at nbc.com.
New TV Show Entitled "Answered Prayer"
Actress Roma Downey is hosting a new program produced by Mark Burnett, her husband. The program is "Answered Prayer," a faith-based, Christian TV series. In an interview Downey said, '"There is so much heartache in our world. I thought we needed to be reminded that good things, extraordinary things, happen. These episodes, lined up week after week, show people who cry out for help and inexplicably help shows up. For people of faith, it will be a reminder of the power of prayer and how loving our God is." Watch a trailer and read more at star-telegram.com. Read a similar article atzap2it.com.
A new independent feature film entitled "Prayer Never Fails" is being filmed in Madison, FL. Read more and watch a report atwc.tv.
Prayer Walking
by Mike Fleming, Prayer Leader,
Glendale Campus
In the lead article in this newsletter, Mike mentions prayer walking during his trip in North Africa. Listen to this podcast as Mike talks about where to walk and what to pray.
Click here to listen
Every year we have hundreds of new people visit our church for the Easter Services. Many of those people do not have a church home and need Christ.
In response to that, the Prayer Ministry at Central invites all of you to attend one service and serve by praying in your campus prayer room through another service. We will pray for those who will be attending, for the message to touch hearts and open eyes, and that this might be the year guests will meet Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Your first thought could be, "This might be embarrassing," or "I don't pray out loud often (or, ever?)."
Please be reassured that we will have trained prayer leaders in each service who will lead the prayer time and make sure no one is uncomfortable. We also will have written guides to direct your prayers through the time. Those who have tried it in years past report they were astounded by how quickly the time flew. Many of the people who are currently praying during services every weekend were first introduced to the prayer rooms at a special invitation like this one.
How about it? Would you be willing to attend one extra service to pray for those who don't yet know Christ?
Please watch for an email from Paul Covert inviting you to come and pray during one of the Easter services. It will include times and dates for all Easter services on all campuses and a link for registering for a particular service. We look forward to praying with you!Ministry Spotlight:
Schedule Some
Time Alone with God
Our next Time Alone with God is scheduled from 1 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 15th.
We will meet at the Mesa campus by the breezeway and travel to Usery Pass in a church van.
If you'd like some special time alone with God, please register on Central's web page so we know you are coming.
For registering and to find more instructions, click here .
Bring your Bible, journal, calendar, and a hungry heart.
God will meet you there. He always does.
Contact Paul Covert for more information at Paul.Covert@CentralAZ.com .
February School of Prayer Report
Without a doubt our best School of Prayer yet happened last month. Jamie and Donna W. led us in two sessions of "Listening Prayer."
They helped us realize that all of us take on names for ourselves that are not from God. Names like: stupid, worthless, or clumsy, etc.
They helped us reject those names, perpetuated by Satan, by listening for what God has for us...words like: mobilizer, leader, precious child, friend of many.
They emphasized that prayer is communication not only to God, but also from God, if we'd just take the time to listen for what He'd like us to hear.
People left encourage and uplifted. It was a sight to see. We thank God for what He is doing in the Schools of Prayer.
by Michelle Hanson
When I learned I would be going on a connection trip to Egypt I was thrilled, and I prayed that God would use me for my team, for the workers in Egypt, and for the Muslims we would meet there. Maybe because I experienced a lot of rejection when I was young, long ago I had decided, "If you can't be loved, at least be useful." Until I came to Central 2 years ago and learned about God's love, I was convinced no one could love me and I took my plan to be useful seriously. I did volunteer work, moved to Africa for two years with Peace Corps, I served in whatever way I could. Maybe I still carry some of that with me because I prayed hard that God would use me on this trip to Egypt. I prayed, I fasted, I had a whole team of people praying for me. I was sure God would use me; that I would really be useful.
Well, I happened to be traveling on a team with very gifted and amazing people. Every role I thought I could fill was already taken. I had studied the Arabic language and knew many words, but someone else was already the language expert. I am a nurse and many people on our team fell to sickness, but there was already someone who filled that role better than I could. I like to encourage people around me, but there were others better at that and more vocal than I.
Read the entire article by clicking here
Christians Pray Following The Death Of 21 Martyred For Their Faith
Christians gathered to pray at a symbolic funeral service held for the 21 Egyptian Christians who were beheaded by ISIS militants. It is reported that they died whispering the name of Jesus. Read more at Christianpost.com. Also read, "Persecution: A time For Faithful Prayer" atKingdomseeking.com, and read another article at latimes.com
Answered Prayer: Wife Of Imprisoned Pastor Saeed Abedini Meets With President Obama
Naghmeh Abedini, the wife of Pastor Saeed Abedini, had been praying for a face-to-face meeting with President Obama for a long time. During the President's recent visit to Boise, Idaho he met with her and her children and assured her that Pastor Saeed was a "top priority." Read an article and watch an interview with Saeed's wife, Naghmeh at cbn.com. Pastor Saeed has been imprisoned In Iran since 2012 on charges related to his faith in Jesus. Please pray for him and his family.
New Kendrick Brothers Film About "The Power of Prayer"
The filmmakers of "Facing the Giants," "Courageous" and "Fireproof" will soon be distributing their latest entitled "War Room," a film that proclaims "Prayer is a Powerful Weapon." Read all about it in an article at bpnews.com. Watch a brief video about the content and the making of War Room ataceshowbiz.com.
Doctor Who Survived Ebola Credits Healing To Prayers On His Behalf
"When asked about his treatment and recovery, Brantly was clearly convinced that the real secret to his recovery was prayer." Get the full story at wacotrib.com.
NASCAR Champion Darrell Waltrip Shares His Testimony Of Jesus At National Prayer Breakfast
While sharing his belief in Jesus, Waltrip reminds the audience that Jesus is the Savior. He also makes it pretty clear about what Jesus saves us from. Read more atchristianpost.com.
Prayer Nuts?
What is a prayer nut? Here's a hint-they are much too valuable to eat and if you see an image of Jesus in one it was made intentionally , unlike those "sort-of-looks- like Jesus" images that people find in potato chips, toast, corn chips and the like.Take a look at visualnews.com.
Kayla Mueller Prompted MillionsTo Pray And Left A Legacy Of Love
In Prescott, AZ and around the world, people prayed for Kayla Mueller and her family. Although her death was confirmed following a military response against those who abducted and imprisoned her, her testimony of Christ-like love continues.
'"I find God in the suffering eyes reflected in mine," she said, according to her family. "If this is how you are revealed to me, this is how I will forever seek you."' Kayla Mueller
Here are just a few of thousands of news stories regarding Kayla:
Read article and watch newscast at azcentral.com
Read another article at azcentral.com
Read article at ksdk.com
Read article at kvoa.com
Read article at kvue.com
Prayer Often Increases As We Age
AARP magazine recently published an article on prayer entitled "The Paradox of Prayer" by Bill Newcott. This article includes comments and statistics on prayer by those who are Christians, as well as those who profess other beliefs. Full article at arrp.org
Creating A Culture Of Prayer
by Jeff Noel, Sr. Pastor and member of the National Prayer Committee
Jeff uses Deuteronomy 6 to show us how to create an atmosphere in which we can pray at any time of the day and in any circumstance. Listen to his fresh and practical insights.
Click here to listen
For more details click here...
Prayer Calendar
Presidential Prayer Team
Prayer Hero Testimonies
All About Prayer
Start A Prayer Ministry
Cry Out Now
Tearfund Prayer Zone
24-7 International
International House Of Prayer
Hollywood Prayer Network
Once again, Central will host a gathering later this month of the National Prayer Leaders from across the country. In return for our hospitality, they will tackle your tough questions about prayer!
Something's been nagging at you about prayer? Wonder about that unanswered prayer? Have you questioned why sometimes it feels like you are talking to the ceiling, when your friend seems to have a direct pipeline to answered prayers? Is it best to sound like King James English when you pray?
Consider any and all prayer questions you have and bring them with you to the Tough Questions Prayer Event in Gilbert beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 29.
The answers will be served up prayerfully, and with an espresso bar, from a panel of Prayer Leaders who serve as Directors of Prayer or lead Prayer Ministries of various kinds. Their leadership takes many forms from pastoring, to praying for celebrities in Hollywood, to speaking and teaching on prayer, writing books or devotionals for prayer, to driving mobile units around the nation praying for national concerns, etc.
They all have a heart for prayer and have many years of experience in many venues from which to draw their answers for you.
When they met here at Central the first time several years ago, we offered a similar night open to questions from members and guests. It was a vibrant night of discussion, considering the power of prayer the Lord has gifted us with. You won't want to miss this new opportunity!
More information about the event will be provided via an email blast to you and from announcements at worship services very soon. Watch for them and save the date!
Tough Questions Prayer Event and Espresso Bar
6:30 p.m., Gilbert Campus
Thursday, January 29, 2015
$10 will be requested at the door to help us cover the expenses for this event. Please plan on joining us. You won't want to miss it!
Jamie W. To Speak At School Of Prayer
On February 8, 2015
by Jasmine Faccone
How does a former policeman from the West wind up overseas and face 10 years in prison for insulting Muhammed?
Praying as a Friend of God
by Mike Fleming
In September, we were privileged to have Andrew D. speak at Central's School of Prayer. He shared insights from those who pray in that Prayer Room. Taking time to be with God in a relationship and in a two-way communication of talking and listening are necessary.
To read the rest of this article click here.
The School of Prayer Is Coming
On February 8, 2015
Save the Date!
Topic: Listening Prayer
Where: Gilbert Campus - The Outback
When: Sunday, February 8, from 3-7 p.m.
The cost is free (A love offering will be taken for the materials and snacks.)
Registration is required. For details and to register, click here.
Prayer For Miner Who Jumped Through Fire
When miner Will Muncy's bulldozer hit a gas line that burst into flames, the fire left him no way out-he was forced to make a fast decision-he jumped through the flames and suffered severe burns on his hands and lungs." Read and watch at wkyt.com.
Prayers Answered: American Couple Held In Qatar Finally Set Free
After being detained in Qatar for almost two years, Matt and Grace Huang were finally cleared of accusations regarding the death of their adopted daughter. Read more at latimes.com
Making A Difference: Middle School Prayer Group
The middle school years present many challenges and in Arab, Alabama a group of middle-school students are facing those challenges head on--they're praying about them! Read more at waaytv.com
"Unbroken" Story Inspires Angelina Jolie To Pray
Producer/Director Angelina Jolie prayed for a miracle. Read more at newsbusters.org and read another article on this topic at Christianpost.com. Read more about Zamperini's life at Wikipedia.com
Prayer Helps Heal Families of Violent Crime Victims
A violent crime against a single individual affects so many lives; family members, friends, entire communities all pay a steep price of grief and sorrow. A group called Hurting Families with Children in Crime includes prayer in their efforts to uplift those who are suffering. Read more at news4jax.com.
Prayer Box On A Mountain Top
A young girl lived 1,500 miles away from her mother who was undergoing treatment for cancer. As her mother was suffering, she suffered as well; prayer helped her cope-and she developed a very personal approach to prayer life. Get the full story at news4jax.com.
In the name of a more "modern" and "inclusive" government, the Surf Coast Shire Council voted to ban the Christian prayer that traditionally opened council meetings. However, the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) is voicing opposition. The full story is at christiantoday.com.
Cultivating A Daily Relationship With God Through Prayer
by John Maempa
Click here to listen
Central AZ Prayer Ministry | 933 N. Lindsay Rd. | Mesa | AZ | 85213
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