18 Jan 2024, 22:39
Spiritual Renewal at the Prayer Ministries Weekend Retreat
From the 12th to the 14th January, Yarnfield Park Training & Conference Centre was imbued with a profound spirit of prayer and worship, hosting the Prayer Ministries Retreat. Organised by Sister Frederica Reid of the Prayer Ministries Department, this event marked a significant spiritual gathering for the North England Conference.
The retreat entitled 'Empowered for Impact' commenced on Friday evening with a reverent tone of praise and worship. This was a time for personal reflection and communal prayer, leading into the weekend’s theme with Pastor Michael Baker's inspiring message, “As I Follow Christ”. Sister Reid eloquently introduced the various 'seasons of prayer' that would be a central focus throughout the weekend.
The early hours of Saturday witnessed the retreat's dedication to prayer, starting at 6:30 am with 'Family Prayer and Devotion'. Prayer, being the retreat's heartbeat, was interwoven into every element of the program. Pr Daniel Ebenezer, General Conference Associate Director of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries, joined on the Sabbath with three powerful sermons exploring the importance of intercessory prayer and the cycle of Evangelism, including a poignant testimonial of his life—a testament to God’s grace. During the afternoon break, a group of delegates went out to meet and share copies of the Great Controversy, Steps to Christ and health magazines with residents in the surrounding community.
One of the most touching moments of the retreat occurred just before Pastor Daniel Ebenezer's departure. In a profound display of unity and support, all attendees gathered around him to offer prayer for his ministry ahead. As Pastor Ebenezer transitions into his new role with the General Conference, this moment symbolised a touching expression of love and solidarity. The collective prayer not only served as a blessing for Pastor Ebenezer but also reinforced the retreat's theme of the importance of Communal intercession and the work of evangelism.
A highlight of the retreat was its authentic engagement in prayer. Contrasting typical expectations of retreats where prayer is often discussed more than practiced, this event was a living embodiment of prayerful communion with God. The music, characterised by its beauty and spirituality, played a significant role in creating an environment where attendees could deeply connect with God and each other.
The spiritual journey continued into Sunday, culminating with Pastor Baker's empowering message, “Empowered to Preserve (Nurture)”. This closing sermon left the attendees inspired, reflecting on their role in nurturing and preserving new members in the body of Christ.
Sister Reid, speaking about the event's impact, remarked, "The purpose of this retreat was to introduce the idea of prayer and effort as a divine formular for successful evangelism. We were stirred up and mobilised to engage with the Reflecting Hope initiative - a great start to the New Year."
This retreat wasn’t just an event; it was a spiritual milestone for those who attended. It exemplified the power of communal prayer and the transformative impact it has on individuals and churches alike. The Prayer Ministries Retreat at Yarnfield Park will undoubtedly leave lasting impressions on the hearts of all who participated, carrying the spirit of prayer forward into their daily lives and efforts to share the Gospel.
From the 12th to the 14th January, Yarnfield Park Training & Conference Centre was imbued with a profound spirit of prayer and worship, hosting the Prayer Ministries Retreat. Organised by Sister Frederica Reid of the Prayer Ministries Department, this event marked a significant spiritual gathering for the North England Conference.
The retreat entitled 'Empowered for Impact' commenced on Friday evening with a reverent tone of praise and worship. This was a time for personal reflection and communal prayer, leading into the weekend’s theme with Pastor Michael Baker's inspiring message, “As I Follow Christ”. Sister Reid eloquently introduced the various 'seasons of prayer' that would be a central focus throughout the weekend.
The early hours of Saturday witnessed the retreat's dedication to prayer, starting at 6:30 am with 'Family Prayer and Devotion'. Prayer, being the retreat's heartbeat, was interwoven into every element of the program. Pr Daniel Ebenezer, General Conference Associate Director of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries, joined on the Sabbath with three powerful sermons exploring the importance of intercessory prayer and the cycle of Evangelism, including a poignant testimonial of his life—a testament to God’s grace. During the afternoon break, a group of delegates went out to meet and share copies of the Great Controversy, Steps to Christ and health magazines with residents in the surrounding community.
One of the most touching moments of the retreat occurred just before Pastor Daniel Ebenezer's departure. In a profound display of unity and support, all attendees gathered around him to offer prayer for his ministry ahead. As Pastor Ebenezer transitions into his new role with the General Conference, this moment symbolised a touching expression of love and solidarity. The collective prayer not only served as a blessing for Pastor Ebenezer but also reinforced the retreat's theme of the importance of Communal intercession and the work of evangelism.
A highlight of the retreat was its authentic engagement in prayer. Contrasting typical expectations of retreats where prayer is often discussed more than practiced, this event was a living embodiment of prayerful communion with God. The music, characterised by its beauty and spirituality, played a significant role in creating an environment where attendees could deeply connect with God and each other.
The spiritual journey continued into Sunday, culminating with Pastor Baker's empowering message, “Empowered to Preserve (Nurture)”. This closing sermon left the attendees inspired, reflecting on their role in nurturing and preserving new members in the body of Christ.
Sister Reid, speaking about the event's impact, remarked, "The purpose of this retreat was to introduce the idea of prayer and effort as a divine formular for successful evangelism. We were stirred up and mobilised to engage with the Reflecting Hope initiative - a great start to the New Year."
This retreat wasn’t just an event; it was a spiritual milestone for those who attended. It exemplified the power of communal prayer and the transformative impact it has on individuals and churches alike. The Prayer Ministries Retreat at Yarnfield Park will undoubtedly leave lasting impressions on the hearts of all who participated, carrying the spirit of prayer forward into their daily lives and efforts to share the Gospel.
