Church program promotes prayer
MARS — As part of a new program at Old Union Presbyterian Church, its members hope to spend more time praying.
On Jan. 1, the church launched the Year of Prayer program in which participants strive to increase prayer by choosing prayer partners and by referring to a calender of suggested prayer topics when needed.
The calendar challenges the church's 200-plus members to pray every day, meet with their prayer partner weekly and participate in monthly spiritual exercises, said the Rev. Peter deVries, who created the calendar. Some topics are specific to the community, nation, world events and spiritual development. Other prayers are dedicated to praising the Lord, he said.
The pastor said he came up with the idea in part because the church is planning a renovation and expansion project. The Year of Prayer would keep the congregation focused on the Lord, he said — although the church's fundraising committee, which will raise money for the expansion, is included in the prayer calendar's suggested topics.
Prayer partners agree the calendar helps them stay focused on praying, even if they don't pray every day.
"Whenever I pray it's hard sometimes for me not to let my mind wander, but sometimes if you have something to focus on it helps your mind not to wander," said Mary Leone, 58, of Forward Township.
"If you are supposed to pray for cancer patients one day, it seems you can't help but keep praying for them other days."
"When Peter offered (the calender) to use I thought it was a good idea," said Ruth Jones, 64, of Mars. "Ijust believe in the power of prayer so much."
Those participating in the program can choose their own prayer partners or can have one assigned. They can pray at any time, however they choose to pray.
"My prayer partners are my two sisters in Iowa," said Jeannie Cooley, 65, of Mars. "It not only strengthens our bond as sisters but our prayer life too."
"My partner is a colleague, doesn't go to the same church and is not of the same faith," Leone said. "I feel like I can talk to her about personal things. I know she has a strong faith and believes in the power of prayer. I choose her because she is easy to talk to is my main reason."
In the spring, the pastor will have a study series on the Lord's Prayer to encourage people to continue to pray. The content of his sermons will be based on prayers from the Bible.
Participants are encouraged to give feedback to the pastor concerning any questions or comments they have about getting involved.
"I view myself as a spiritual coach for my congregation," said deVries.
"People communicate with me maybe through e-mail or another way and I respond in the same way that they contacted me."
All ages are invited to participate in the Year of Prayer. The Web site states, "If you're old enough to pray, you're old enough to be part of the Year of Prayer."
Although the program was designed mainly for the congregation, deVries said non-members are also welcome.
"We would be thrilled to have anyone from the community participate," he said.
For more information or to view the calendar, go to www.oldunionchurch.com.
