I hope most everyone has heard about the World Methodist Conference.Here is their Vision Statement: OUR VISION: To see the MethodistMovement alive, vibrant, growing and yearning to spread the good newsof Christ Jesus throughout the whole world through word, deed and sign!
Gotta' like that!
Here is their link on Prayer & Fasting http://www.worldmethodist.org/prayerandfasting.htm
Check out the text from that page...
Since the 1991 World Methodist Conference in Singapore, Methodistsaround the world have been encouraged by World Methodist Evangelism toparticipate in the same weekly fast which John Wesley observed most ofhis life. Now, the Wesleyan Patter for Prayer and Fasting has been incorporated into the World Methodist Evangelism Emphasis and Wesleyan/Methodist people around the world are being encourage to participate, especially during Lent 2005 and Lent 2006!
In a world of computers, fax machines and supersonic travel, thechurch is tempted to overlook the simple act of praying for one another, the church and the world. The church cannot afford to neglect the power of prayer and fasting. Therefore, Methodist/Wesleyan people all over the world are invited to accept this challenge to prayer and fasting.
What is the "Wesleyan Pattern for Prayer and Fasting?" Each Thursday evening, after the evening meal, until mid-afternoon on each Friday, Methodist people are invited to follow Wesley's example of fasting and prayer. During this time he did not take solid food but fasted and focused much of his time in prayer.
What is a fast? Normally persons do not use solid food, but continuew ith liquids during such a short but regular fast.
What is the connection between prayer and fasting? Fasting is not ad iet; it is a discipline that enables one to focus his or her prayers.
When does this prayer and fasting take place? It is hope that many will regularly follow the pattern, but it is urged for the people to particularly follow the pattern of prayer and fasting each week between Easter and Pentecost.
Who is invited to participate in the "Wesleyan Pattern of Prayer and Fasting?" John Wesley expected the "preachers" to participate, and he wanted all of the Methodist leaders and people to follow this discipline.
Why this pattern? Methodist people are invited to discover the power in this regular pattern and discipline that John Wesley followed for a half a century. For Wesley, the more important reason for fasting was that fasting is a help to prayer.
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Once again, let me share that I believe this is a time when the United Methodist Church needs to come before the Lord and seek His will on the Amendments to the Constitution that will be voted on in 2009.
Will you join in this effort?
John Bright
johnlynnbright@gmail.com
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