By Kathy Wilcox
Last week the Vineyard of Prayer room was dedicated, the Prayer Team was commissioned, and registration began for the upcoming Prayer Encounter Seminar on Sept. 15. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding aspects of Arborlawn's Prayer Ministry.
VINEYARD OF PRAYER
Q: The Prayer Room is beautiful, but why do I need to come here? Can’t I just pray from home?
A: Absolutely pray from home! In fact, we are commanded to pray without ceasing. But this special dedicated space allows you to spend intimate time alone with God. It allows you to focus on Him, to feel His Presence and peace, and without the distractions from your daily life. You can talk to God about what’s on your heart and pray for others. Going to the Prayer Room is somewhat like having a "divine appointment" with God. Just as you schedule appointments in your weekly calendar, spending time with God also has to be intentional.
Q: I see the altar and kneeler and know that they are for personal confession and prayer. I see Bibles and hymnals and understand how to use them in personal worship. But what are the binders in the wood rack?
A: The binders contain helpful ways to guide prayers for others. There are seven binders that focus on specific areas of intercession: 1) Requests - When people within Arborlawn turn in prayer cards with nonconfidential requests, appropriate for a public prayer room, their name is listed in this binder. Because of privacy issues only names are listed, along with some Scriptures and sample prayers. Four weeks of requests are included, as well as a section to record God’s answers. 2) Staff - Each Arborlawn staff member is pictured, along with suggested prayers and Scriptures. 3) Ministries - Pray for Aborlawn’s missions and ministries. 4) City - Intercede for Fort Worth, as the Holy Spirit directs. 5) State - Pray for Texas and its many issues. 6) Country - Pray for the United States, its leaders, and the military. 7) World - Pray for God’s people around the world.
Q: When is the Vineyard of Prayer open?
A: The prayer room is open when the church is open during regular office hours, as well as evenings when other events or meetings take place. Check the church calendar for this information. Currently no reservations are required. Just come when God calls you to spend time with Him.
Q: What do I do if someone is already using the Prayer Room?
A: If the Prayer Room is in use and you wish to pray in private, we invite you to graciously wait or to pray in the Sanctuary until the Prayer Room is available. We are working on a scheduling system that will be implemented sometime in the future. Thank you for your patience.
PRAYER TEAM
Q: How do I join the Prayer Team?
A: Send us an email and request information for the various components of the Prayer Ministry.
Q: What are the requirements?
A: You will be asked to sign a Prayer Covenant that says you commit to be on the team for one year, to pray, and to keep all requests confidential.
Q: How do I submit a prayer request, or update one, or report an answer?
A: Fill out the blue and white Prayer Request Card located in the Sanctuary pew racks, or in the wooden holders on Prayer Boxes. Place the card in the offering plates or in one of the locked Prayer Boxes located in the Lower Commons, outside the Worship Center, and outside the church office. You can also submit the request online at ArborlawnUMC.org/prayer or by calling the church office.
Q: For how long are requests prayed?
A: Requests are prayed by the Intercessory Team for one month. Reported updates are prayed for an additional month.
PRAYER ENCOUNTER SEMINAR, SEPT. 15 (Read more and register here.)
Q: What does the $20 registration cover?
A: The registration fee only covers the speaker’s fee. The church will cover all other expenses. Scholarships are available for those who cannot afford the cost registration. We don’t want money to be an obstacle for anyone.
Q: Does the church need financial donations to cover these extra costs?
A: Yes, donations are appreciated. A special account has been established. Anyone wanting to donate may designate "Prayer Encounter" on your check’s memo line.
Q: Who is Dr. Terry Teykl?
A: Terry Teykl was a UMC pastor for 28 years and has been full-time in the prayer ministry since 1996. He has authored many books on prayer including: Divine Strongholds, Making Room to Pray, Pray the Price, Your Pastor Preyed On or Prayed For, How to Pray After You’ve Kicked the Dog, Acts 29, Blueprint for the House of Prayer, Outside the Camp, Praying Grace, and the Presence Based Church. Dr. Teykl’s warm humorous style makes him one of the most sought after speakers and seminar leaders in the country. He resides in Houston with his wife Kay, close to his children and grandchildren. Check out his promo video on YouTube.
Q: Why should I spend a Saturday at a prayer seminar?
A: This seminar will energize and equip you to more effectively communicate with God. It will awaken a passion for Him and a desire to grow closer to Him. It will be well worth the time and expense to experience more of God.
Q: How can I help?
A: There are many committees forming. We need lots of help, since this event is open to the entire CTC. Call the church office or contact Bonny Jenista to volunteer.
# # #
ArborlawnUMC.org