Let’s Pray: Sun 29 November – Sat 5 December 2020 – First Presbyterian Church, Donaghadee

Moderator | Please pray for the Moderator as many of his engagements are either postponed or carried out by alternative means – remotely or online. Today he shares the livestream service from Abbey Monkstown, marking the 50^th anniversary of the opening of their building.
At home for Christmas | Pray for our ministers, some of whom are discouraged during the current restrictions. Pray for ways we can build them up during December.

Derek and Jane French (global mission workers, Spain) | Give thanks for six new people who have joined Bilbao International Church since September. Pray that they will settle in well and feel at home.
Derek and Jane French (global mission workers, Spain) | Andamio (the publishing branch of GBU – student ministry in Spain) has published a new resource for 7-14 year olds to use during December. Pray that through it, many will come to faith in Jesus. Pray too for Derek and Jane as they continue to serve.

Deaconesses | PCI has 16 deaconesses most of whom serve in congregations. Pray for each deaconess as they continue to work and seek opportunities to share the gospel and encourage people in their faith, despite Covid-19 restrictions. Pray for wisdom and guidance in all they do.
Deaconesses in healthcare | Pray especially for Heather McCracken (Belfast Health and Social Care Trust) and Joanne Dunlop (Antrim Area Hospital) for encouragement, stamina, good health and safety.

Russia | Pray for the witness of the Christian church during this uncertain time – that Christians would be able to show God’s love and care to others, especially to those suffering due to the Covid-19 situation.
St Petersburg Christian University, Russia | Pray that students will continue to grow, both academically and spiritually. Pray for health and protection for staff, students and their families. Pray too for the financial situation at the university, thanking God for a slight improvement.

Community outreach workers | Through grants, PCI supports 13 community outreach workers serving in congregations supporting local mission. Give thanks for each worker and pray for wisdom and guidance as they continue to adapt and develop their ministry, whilst complying with all Covid-19 guidelines.
Community outreach workers | Pray too for the people the workers are in contact with, and that during this advent and Christmas season, many will accept Christ as their Lord and Saviour.

Social Witness | Pray for staff teams as they plan for Christmas – particularly for the special visiting arrangements for family and friends. Give thanks for the patience and understanding of visitors as they struggle with restricted visiting regimes.
Local government |Pray for councillors and council staff across the island, especially in the run up to Christmas as they continue to provide services and support to local communities in these challenging times.

General Council | Pray for the secretary of the General Council, Rev Trevor Gribben and its convener, the very Rev Dr Noble McNeely, as the Council meeting re-scheduled for December has had to be postponed once again until January owing to enhanced government restrictions. Pray for all ministers as they respond to the ever-changing legislation, while trying to meet the needs of their congregations.
Training in Ministry | Fourteen people have applied for ordained ministry this year. The application process runs through until Easter, with placements, interviews, and assignments. Pray that the Lord would guide and give wisdom to applicants and interviewers as together they seek the Lord’s will.