Needed: Champions for the Next Generation

We were meant to live in community. From the very beginning, it was God’s design for man to live with others: “then the Lord God said, it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” (Genesis 2:18). Shutdowns and social distancing certainly made us appreciate God’s design for community. We missed our extended families, our friends, and our community. Waving to one another from a distance just wasn’t enough. We needed connection.Prayer is a way to keep us connected. When we talk to God, He hears us. And He not only hears us, but He provides us with wisdom, comfort, and peace as we move about our day. Prayer is so important to God, it is mentioned hundreds of times throughout the Bible. It is essential in our daily walk with God. It keeps us connected to Him, as well as one another.For the last year, while being separated by the pandemic, a group of students and adults at Hope have been connected in prayer through the Pray For Me Campaign. The Pray For Me Campaign is a way that we can build connection among the generations in our church community. Here is how it works:*One to three adult believers become Prayer Champions and commit to a year of prayer for one student or family. The student or family also prays for their prayer champions. Simple! Prayer is something we can do anytime, anywhere. It can be done while maintaining social distance or meeting face to face. Though simple in plan, our prayers can have tremendous impact on the next generation. Studies have shown that children are more likely to remain committed to church as adults when they develop relationships with various generations within the church. When we get to know one another and develop meaningful relationships, the more likely we are to remain connected to the church. The church isn’t programs, it’s people. It is about the body of Christ spending time with one another in worship, praying for one another daily, and serving alongside one another. We cannot build connection if we remain separated. The Pray For Me Campaign is a chance for students and adults to develop relationships. It is an opportunity for us to come together before the Lord and pass on our faith to the next generation.We will faithfully continue the relationships that have developed over the past year, and we would like to expand and invite others to join us! This year we will celebrate being able to gather. If you are interested in participating in this project, as a Prayer Champion or as a family wanting a team of Prayer Champions, look for information in the coming weeks on how you can get involved. You can contact me at: sbhumphrey6801@gmail.com to sign up.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Philippians 4:6