Praying for the world - starting with the formation of the Guild of Saint Paul, an intercessory prayer group.

The letter below has come into Advocacy's mail box ... from Common Grace.

Please note, however, that Constantine, Parish Priest at St Paul's, is establishing the Guild of Saint Paul, an intercessory prayer group.  His aim is to have members of the Guild praying in St Paul's four hours a day.  So much happening in our world. We want to have consistent prayer for those events and situations which are plaguing humanity.  We will burn a candle or three as well. If you aren't part of the community at St Paul's but would like to join in this work, please phone Advocacy's secretary on 0477 477 658 or email Advocacy at advocacyballarat@gmail.com.

Picture above is from here

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Dear Friend,

We are writing to you today with a call to prayer for the weekend ahead. Leaders throughout the Asia-Pacific began meeting today to discuss the humanitarian crisis unfolding in our region.¹  At this stage, around 7,000 Rohingya asylum seekers are still stranded on the same boats they have been on for over two weeks, with countries in the area continuing to refuse to accommodate them.

As you probably are aware, our own government is also still refusing to help.² It is a devastating situation for those of us who believe that all people are created in the image of God.

The reality is that, as Christians, we know a Saviour whose response is one of inclusion and acceptance. Who says 'Yes, yes, yes' to the 'whosoever' that would come, and extends unconditional love to all. Yet we can find our earthly leaders' response is the opposite, as rigid policies and political slogans take precedence over compassion and common sense. 

Yet even in these times, we can hold on to the hope we have in Jesus, and bring our concerns to him in prayer.

Let's all join together this weekend and pray specifically that:

• The Rohingyas are helped off the boats and given shelter.          
• A search and rescue operation is launched to find other boats from Myanmar.
• Governments work together to end the persecution of the Rohingyas.
• Governments provide a clear 'front door' for refugees to seek asylum in our region so that they aren't forced to come on boats.
• Australia takes a lead in the region by giving the Rohingyas and other refugees a permanent home.
• The people of Australia will be generous and offer welcome to those in need.

At the moment there seems little hope, yet we believe in a God who raises the dead and for whom nothing is impossible. Together, let's believe God will work miraculously to bring a solution to this crisis.

With Grace and Peace,
Tim, Justin and the whole Common Grace Team


PS. Why not forward this email to your pastor or the person who will be overseeing prayer in your church service this Sunday?