National  Pastors'  Prayer  Network

CITY CONNECTIONS
One Church; Many Congregations
03/20/2005


I N T H I S U P D A T E . . . . . and for our prayers:

 



 
CLICKS
 

               http://www.nppn.org/articles.htm
 

               http://www.prayerleader.com
                 http://www.citreaching.org

 
SAN DIEGO: AN ANNUAL MEETING THAT WAS “TRANSFORMATIONAL”
>At:  http://www.ifapray.org/NewsletterHTML/IFANL2005/JanPg1_2005.htm

There are business meetings which bring forth good plans, and then there are meetings with God which release transformational grace. The 2004 Annual Meeting of the Mission America Coalition in San Diego was a transformational meeting with God. I was privileged to participate.

Our hearts were plowed for what God would later impart as U.S. Navigators Director, Alan Andrews, presented a riveting message on the state of American culture in which he outlined four major trends facing the church today: globalization; urbanization; pluralism; and withdrawal and isolation.

Andrews said the trends open the door for presenting "the whole Gospel, to the Whole person" but then asked whether the church is prepared to meet that challenge. "We have no idea how much pain is underneath the surface of people’s lives," he added, emphasizing that the Gospel must be proclaimed and demonstrated "in a much more holistic manner in order to touch lives and transform communities."

The Whole Gospel to the Whole Person

Barbara Elliott, recipient of President George W. Bush’s award for Human Rights in 2001 for her work with refugees and the poor, presented an eloquent summary of faith-in-action in the cities of America. Cynicism and anxiety were replaced with inspiration and hope as Barbara spoke. The Templeton Foundation has just published a compilation of interviews she did with pioneering "street saints." The book, Street Saints: Renewing America’s Cities is available from IFA. (www.ifabooks.com)

A working document, Loving Our Communities to Christ - A Framework for Grass Roots Initiated Strategies for Transformational Impact was central to much small group discussion and prayer. The document, shaped by more than 200 leaders, is uniting Christian leaders and is serving as a catalyst for collaborative, loving evangelism. Already, leaders in 15 U.S. cities have indicated a strong interest in having their communities chosen to model out this strategic framework! Prayer is asked as hundreds of leaders are beginning to deploy staff and resources to advance this church-based, community-focused initiative.

IFA, a member of the Mission America Coalition, will be targeting the cities selected with concerted prayer and fasting. The Loving Our Communities to Christ document, ideal for informed intercession, is posted on the "Current Prayer Guides" page at www.ifapray.org.

Loving Our Communities to Christ is an answer to years of concerted prayer and fasting, and is a necessary ingredient for ushering in and sustaining Revival.

Scripture presents the example of a righteous Gentile, Cornelius, a Roman Military officer whose extended household was marked for Redemption because of his faithfulness in devoted prayer, and generous almsgiving. An angel declared that Cornelius’ "prayers and alms [had] come up as a memorial before God." Note, "prayersa nd alms." (Acts 10:1-6, 30-33)

"Almsdeeds" Help Prompt Revival

Historically, almsgiving was not equated with tithes and offerings. Nor was it our modern practice of writing a check or putting money in the offering plate, box or basket. Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language defines alms as "Anything given gratuitously to relieve the poor, as money, food, or clothing, otherwise called charity." Acts of mercy or works of charity were termed Almsdeeds. Repentance, prevailing prayer and fasting are not the only ingredients necessary for Revival. The Gospel is more effectively propagated as believers do works of charity in their communities.

The Apostle Peter wrote about how this dynamic works: "Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation." (1Peter 2:11-12)

The hearts of unbelievers are spiritually conditioned to acknowledge God and receive Christ as they witness our works of compassion – our Almsdeeds. Jesus testified of the same dynamic. He said the world would know He was sent as the Messiah by the oneness they saw in believers lovingly co-laboring. (John 17:20-23)

Brother and sisters, if we will love our communities to Christ, we will see Revival!
 
 EL PASO / BORDER CITIES REPORT
>From: "Laurraine Huffman" <laurrainehuffman@sbcglobal.net>

Hi Phil,
 I am sure you will hear  from Glenn Barth, but I wanted to tell you that the City Impact Roundtable went very well. Some think  as many as 100 showed up. ( I know of one business person who  waited 20 minutes for a parking space and another key business person left due  to lack of parking).

We will have a convening team meeting  next week to pray and evaluate the meeting, which I would definitely call the  most successful to date. I am thrilled with what the Lord is doing. The mix of  believers who came was excellent, and we heard many comments of what a great  meeting overall we had. God was with us! Many of those who attended were there for the first  time. Many indicated that there was a real need for this type  of meeting. Believers know when something is of the Lord, and the ones we  talked to seemed grateful for the gathering. (I was told our Christian Sheriff  had to leave early for a funeral, but he didn't seem to want to leave).  

I think what we will do in the future is  continue to have panels from different sectors to inspire and inform us, and  also have table talk as well. The panels seem to draw people  too.  The  overall mission of our CIR is to pray, share and care with regards to Loving  Our Communities to Christ. We are still in the early stages of holding  CIR's in our area.But after doing this meeting, it  seems to me that we should continue to start the CIR with a panel discussion with a few believers from a particular sector in the community. Our panel  of three only took about 45 minutes.

When you  highlight a sector two things happen. One, you draw others from that same  sphere of influence who come to add to, learn from or support what their  counterparts are doing.  Two, it attracts others with a heart for their community to hear what God is doing  within the community. It was very enlightening to hear reports from those  who are working with or in Law Enforcement in our region (our focus in March) and connecting Christians to real life in the city.
 
Later  on when you have your table discussions, you can move forward from  what was shared. The panel creates an environment which encourages  others to share at the tables what God has put on their hearts. Our CIR  met for only two hours, but it was important to pray and share around the  tables to build relationships. At the conclusion, each table gave a  summary of what was shared, and what we saw was that each highlighted a  ministry they didn't know existed.
 
I believe these meetings will continue  to grow as well as bring back others who have attended in the past. As one  convening team member shared, the church must come together to be one voice to  bring change in the community. By the way, one convening team member  who works closely with Dick Eastman's Every Home for Christ has sent the notes from the first roundtable to them so that EHFC can look at doing a roundtable at their upcoming meeting Plus, I heard today that the Hispanic pastors who either lead or have led ministerial alliances from the El Paso-Juarez region had lunch together yesterday. I feel that is fruit from our CIRs and Border Summits, though they may not know it. This is a first for this particular group, (as far as I know). PTL!
 
 ST. LOUIS: CITY REACHING TEAM ISSUES NATIONAL INVITATION
>From: "Harold & Joan Hendrick" <hhhendrick@usa.com>
 
Three years ago I received an invitation from Glenn Barth to attend Mission America's City Impact Roundtable.  I went...and it was one of the best moves of my life. So now this is an invitation for you. Can you join us for the upcoming St. Louis City Impact Roundtable?  Would be delighted if you could.   The program, those attending, and the expected presence of the Holy Spirit ... is giving us much excitement!   Certainly hope you can be a part .
     
 
  1. Developing your  relationships with other cityreachers like yourself will be eternal in  value.  You will be encouraged at hearing of the many works of God  in present day cityreaching around the country .  Your vision  will be expanded.  You will be enriched and refreshed in the  assignment -- Matthew 28:19, 20 -- that Jesus has given  us.   
  2. You  will  find occasions to share  your vision and ministry around the roundtables.  
  3. If you are like me, you will develop friends  and relationships lasting for the remainder of this life...and all of the  next!    
  4. The he value of your  participation will be multiplied if others from your  area come and share the experience with you.   
  5. It has just been confirmed that the Wednesday breakfast  (April 13, funded as a separate event to include  the local community) will feature the Honorable Wilson  Goode, former Mayor of Philadelphia, and Dr. Bob Bakke, national and  international prayer leader who will "cast a vision" regarding the  Global Day of Prayer.  (www.globaldayofprayer.com <http://www.globaldayofprayer.com/> )
     
    
And your are welcomed to pass this invitation on to other cityreachers like yourself  ... in your region and around the country  -- those with a heart for reaching their regions with the gospel across the "lines."  Additional  information can be seen at www.cityreaching.com <http://www.cityreaching.com> .   

    Because of Jesus,
    Harold Hendrick
    314 355-1052
    Board member, Mission Metro St. Louis
    Christian Radio (KSIV in St. Louis) Talk Show Host
 
 


City/Community Ministries
  
CITY IMPACT ROUNDTABLE
April 11-13, 2005
Missouri Athletic Club in Downtown St. Louis
Hosted by the Mission Metro St. Louis and Mission America City/Community Ministries  


WHO IS INVITED
 

  1. City  practitioners (from entry level to veterans)   
  2. Leaders with a city-reaching passion (pastors,  para-church ministry leaders)   
  3. Men  & women in the marketplace   
  4. Civic leaders,  
  5. Educators,  
  6. Intercessors
     

SCHEDULE
Begin 1:30 PM Monday, April 11 & conclude 12:30 PM Wednesday, April 13.
 
COST FOR SEMINAR    
Individual registration: $150  
Daily registration:  Monday, $50; Tuesday, $75; Wednesday, $30
Special Breakfast with the Honorable Wilson Goode, SR, former mayor of Philadelphia, PA, and Dr. Bob
    Bakke, national and international prayer leader who will "cast a vision" on the Global Day of Prayer,  $20
 
 Group registration:  $130 per person  (Group of 5 or more registering together)    
 Registration will include Monday dinner and Tuesday lunch at the MAC
 
COST FOR HOTEL   
Double occupancy hotel rate: $85 + 7.25% TAX  (approximate total per night $91.16)
Single occupancy hotel rate:  $80  + 7.25% TAX   (approximate total per night $85.80)
 
Make room reservations directly with the Missouri Athletic Club
    Phone 314-231-7220 using group name:  Mission America City Impact Roundtable
We have a limited number of rooms at this rate and your reservations must be made by February 28.   Hotel Amenities include complimentary expanded continental breakfast, parking, full use of athletic facilities,  and USA TODAY.  

TRANSPORTATION
Shuttle from and to the airport graciously provided by Mission Metro St. Louis.
Please request details on the shuttle by emailing info@cityreaching.com <mailto:info@cityreaching.com>  with your arrival itinerary.
 
FOCUS  
A refreshing mix of foci & formats, but mostly accomplished city-reachers telling their stories & sharing models, followed by open dialogue or roundtables. Workshop topics will include:
 
  1. Leading a City-Reaching  Movement  
  2. Funding Your City  Movement  
  3. Expanding the Table   
  4. Building a House of Prayer in Your Congregation and  City  
  5. Mentoring Emerging  Leaders  
  6. What  We're Learning from Non-Western Transformational  Contexts...  
  7. and much  more
     
Consider bringing at least two, preferably five from your city movement. Consider also a mix of emerging leaders, women, diverse ethnicities and men & women of influence in the marketplace. IDEAL--bringing a diverse group of 5-7 leaders to maximize workshop exposures, creative thinking and practical takeaways for your city or region.

We are pleased to announce Tom White as the CIR Convener for 2005.  Tom is with Frontline Ministries, and a member of the CitiChurch of Corvallis Leadership Team in Oregon.  This event is offered through the City/Community Ministries of the Mission America Coalition.  National Facilitators, Glenn Barth, Jarvis Ward and Phil Miglioratti serve cityreaching movements throughout the nation in their work with the Mission America Coalition, of which the CIR is a part.  Tom White and a design team of eight seasoned veteran cityreachers are planning the foci and format for St. Louis.
 
To register by mail - Complete the form and send to:
                  ATTN:  Carolyn O'Brien
                 Grace Church
                 9301 Eden Prairie Road
                 Eden Prairie, MN  55347
Or by fax:  952-926-1885
 
Questions?    info@cityreaching.com    Phone: 952-224-3127 (9-noon Mon-Fri)     www.cityreaching.com <http://www.cityreaching.com/>  
Glenn Barth, Jarvis Ward and Phil Miglioratti
National Facilitators, Mission America City/Community Ministries
 
 NEW ENGLAND REPORT
>From: "New England Concerts of Prayer" <necp@necp.org>

“I have finished the work You gave me to do.”  John 17:4

During this Lenten period we remember how Jesus completed what the Father gave Him to do.  He is doing that in us as well.  He wants to help us finish what He began in us; and He will, as we invite Him to, and cooperate with Him in His work.

In May the largest prayer meeting in history is scheduled: the Global Day of Prayer (see below).  It is a reflection of the prayer movement progressing across the globe.  The Church is echoing the heart cry of Jesus for Gods Kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.  The kingdom of darkness cannot stop this work, either globally or individually.  The stirring story of Ashley Smith is evidence of Gods work individually.  She convinced the alleged criminal to spare her life and turn himself in, and gave a testimony that glorified Jesus on all the national networks.

Lord, will You pour out Your Spirit on us afresh as we approach Easter, so that we will have the determination to say with confidence, “Let Your will be done on earth, and in us, as it is in heaven!”

Good News from the City of Peace!
The headline of the North Shore Sunday paper was “Jesus is just all right with them.”  It was an article about the activities of Campus Crusade at Salem State College.  Interviews with the Campus Crusade staff focused on the openness of students to learning about Jesus and their receptivity to the Gospel.  Observations included young people being more willing to explore a relationship with Jesus and that there is a shift in the way people view Christianity rather than a list of rules, it presents a freedom from harmful influences.  This is not the average story presented by this paper; things ARE changing!

Harvard School of Public Health  - a talk by Pam Woods of Bethany Christian Services (Adoption Agency) titled "Adoption, Abortion, and the Christian Gospel" took place the 16th of March. This is the first event the HSPH Christian Fellowship has hosted of this nature.  Pray that the seats will be filled; that Jesus be greatly honored by every aspect of the event; that this event will begin a healthy discussion that will allow many to hear the whole Gospel and come to know Jesus; that it will make room for Christians to express a Gospel-based (countercultural) view on this and other social, health, and human rights issues in the future; that a special covering of peace will enable truth to flow freely and disarm/diffuse hostility; that Pam Woods will speak with Holy Spirit authority; that the believers there will be covered in the armor of God; and that every Kingdom seed planted will bear fruit.

Prayer Journey Report
Monday and Tuesday, March 7-8, a prayer journey took place: Monday was down Rt. 1 from the Maine border to the Rhode Island border; Tuesday was Salem, Boston, and Harvard.  The word for the journey was Esther 9:1 (So on March 7 the two decrees of the king were put into effect.), 9:13 (And Esther said, "If it please Your Majesty, give the Jews in Susa permission to do again tomorrow as they have done today.), and 9:18 (But the Jews at Susa continued killing their enemies on the second day also, and then rested on the third day, making that their day of feasting and gladness.)  Therefore, on Monday, we put the Kings decrees into effect from border to border; on Tuesday, we continued in the capitals; and on the third day, the feasting and celebration took place via the Prayer Breakfast in the Great Room at the State House!  GOD IS MOVING!

Growing Children of Character, #3, Monday, Mar. 21, 7:30 to 9:00 pm at Wesley United Methodist Church, 8 North Street (Route 114), Salem, MA. Free.  To register, or for more information, please call: 781 639 3000.
 
 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PASTORS NETWORK
>From: Pastorsnet@aol.com [mailto:Pastorsnet@aol.com]

Dear Phil,
Today we had an awesome meeting.  Dr. George Otis, 85 years old and going strong shared with the pastors and Christian leaders throughout Bible history God has many times used "one man" to make a difference and turn the world upside down.

The man who has traveled the world to preach the gospel to the poor and to kings and priests is going out again this time to build another short wave radio station to preach the gospel to the middle east.   He basically said, that if he stays here or if he is in the air and God takes him home, he'd rather be moving and doing something for God's kingdom.

He also shared a little about his experience in the Philippines with Bro. Eddie Villaneuva, founder of Jesus is Lord Church,  and the time they went to visit then President Marcos and Imelda.  And Bro. George had the privilege and boldness to lead Mrs. Marcos to the Lord.  He also said under the anointing of the Holy Ghost that Bro. Eddie Villanueva will be the next President of the Philippines.  And his sister, who is a pastor in our network was present.

So, Dr. Sylvester Blue who has appeared many times on Television and recently sang for Pres. G.W. Bush shared his testimony of how in November he had a heart attack on the way home from 10 days of ministry and finally on January 3, 2005 he went in for open heart surgery.  While on the operating table he placed his life in the hands of the Lord, whom he loves with all his heart.  The doctors made one final test as Bro. Blue was going under.  When he woke up, he found out the doctors had cancelled his surgery because the pressure in his heart was so high he wouldn't survive the surgery.  Today, Feb. 17, 2005 he is well and strong and he sang for us in Hebrew!  God is awesome!

This is our little report!  How good and how gracious the Lord is when the Brethren come together in unity.   

The Pastors Network of Southern California
Meeting at Denny's Restaurant on the 3rd Thursday of the Month
12 Noon until 3 p.m.
 
 SAN FRANCISCO / BAY AREA PASTORS LEADERSHIP REPORT
>From: Ginny Kisling <gkisling@pacbell.net>
 
I just came from a gathering of Pastors and Leaders from the Bay Area where there was an overwhelming sense of stirring towards unity building amongst Pastors cross denominationally, and repeated examples of the coming together of Pastors, Intercessors and the Marketplace. A growing passion for the transformation of their cities and looking for what God is saying for their City and their State. There is a sense among a number of Pastors and Prayer leaders that signs of Revival are present.
 
The leadership of Pray The Bay sponsored a Leadership Round Table on March 7th and 8th  by bringing some key Christian leadership together from the nine counties of the San Francisco Bay Area to pray, hear reports of what God is doing around the Bay, and strategize how a united church in this region can work together to bring about spiritual transformation.
 
Pastor John Isaacs, President of Pray the Bay and Senior Pastor of KingsWay Community Church, inspired us all as he gave an overview of what has transpired in Santa Clara County for the past 10 years. He reports that they saw the birth of a prayer movement (Pray South Bay), have come together for Concerts of Prayer, Pastors Prayer Summits, City Clean Up Days, Monthly Pastors Prayer meetings, National Day of Prayer events, a Billy Graham Crusade, Promise Keepers, and numerous Praise and Worship events. Pastor Isaacs says that the vision of Pray South Bay has now grown into a stronger, more inclusive, and more compelling new vision with the goal being nothing less than  the spiritual transformation of their county. This new vision is giving birth to a new organization, Transformation Alliance of Santa Clara County (TASCC, pronounced task). This is a new opportunity for churches and Christian ministries in Santa Clara County and surrounding cities to work together toward Community Transformation. They will do this through focusing on 10 key areas:
 
  1. Uniting Christian Leadership
  2. Teaching, Training, and Equipping the church
  3. Mobilizing Prophetic Intercession
  4. Coordinating Evangelism and Discipleship
  5. Cooperating in Compassionate Ministries to the Poor
  6. Being Ambassadorial to Political Officials
  7. Reaching out to all Generations
  8. Staging Together in Worship Events
  9. Developing Marketplace Transformation
  10. Providing Real Data to Measure Progress
     

Pastor Isaacs reports that Pastors have been stepping forward to say they are prepared to give their life to Community and Citywide Transformation.
 
Pastors and leaders from other counties reported in. One county reports a lot of healings taking place, particularly with those outside of the church. Another county speaks to the evangelistic efforts and follow on results in their community. Others speak to Pastors rallying behind one another in battles with City Government. Others report breakthroughs with Pastors from different traditions coming together in unity to support one another.
 
Pastor Isaacs says imagine for a moment a transformed world: A place where the power, the presence, and the peace of God are experienced by all. The power of God unleashed. The peace of God rules and Shalom is embraced. The presence of God fills the earth. For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, As the waters cover the sea. Habakkuk 2:14
 
There was great encouragement experienced by all as we heard what God was doing in each county and then had the opportunity to surround County Pastors and Leaders in prayer and words of encouragement. We parted with a renewed commitment to press on in our call and an excitement in coming together in one month for a statewide City Prayer Summit in Oakland where Pastors from all over the State will pray at the City Gates with Intercessors supporting them in prayer.
 
Submitted by Ginny Kisling
Church Prayer Leaders Network - Western Regional Director
Prayer Ministries Development
San Jose, CA         408-799-9939
ginny@harvestprayer.com <mailto:ginny@harvestprayer.com>
www.prayerleader.com <http://www.prayerleader.com/>
 
 AUSTIN / CENTRAL TEXAS: GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER
>From: "Glen Barbier" <glenbarbier@cox-internet.com>

Austin/Central Texas
Global Day of Prayer
Delco Center - Austin
The afternoon of May 15, 2005

The Vision:
    With the Book of Acts as our model,
        to reveal God's glory on earth by mobilizing millions of Christians in every Nation
        to pray with One Voice - culminating on One Day -
        to ask God to Bless the Nations of the Earth.
    Then, collaborating as One Body,
        proceed to be the instruments through which
    God answers these prayers.
 
United prayer is filling the earth to ask God to bless the Nations.
  
Plans are in the works to celebrate a first ever Global Day of Prayer here in Austin.
The gathering will be at the AISD Delco Center Sunday afternoon, May 15, 2005 (Pentecost Sunday).
 
On the first Pentecost the disciples were “all together in one place” (Acts 2:1).
On Pentecost 2005, we will again have the opportunity to be all together, but in many places around the world.
 
Please mark your personal and church calendar for Sunday afternoon, May 15, 2005, at the Delco Center.
More details to follow soon.

It’s estimated that TWO HUNDRED MILLION people (that’s 200,000,000) will be praying that day around the world!
 
“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea”
– Habakkuk 2:14
 
www.globaldayofprayer.com <http://www.globaldayofprayer.com/>
Join the greatest assembly of prayer and largest movement of blessing in history.
 
 COLORADO SPRINGS: LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE FOR NATIONAL REVIVAL
>From: Tatsuo Akamine <tatsuo_a@sbcglobal.net>

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE SUMMARY REPORT       Even after 3 weeks since convening at the Leadership Conference for National Revival held in Colorado Springs (Feb. 10-11th), I am still deeply impacted and processing much of what the Holy Spirit did during the gathering of those 2 eventful days.        Many came in spite of a lack of finances, compelled by a sense of obedience to God and an earnest, unquenchable desire for national revival.      Some like Karen Bowling of the Nebraska Family Council postponed other demanding obligations and drove 8 hours in a packed automobile with fellow state intercessors to the World Prayer Center in order to hear from God and return with their hearts ablazed with holy fire.       Most came not knowing what to expect.  One local businessman happened to sit in during the opening session while I shared the vision for national revival and the purpose of the conference as "A Next Step".  He had no intention of staying but found himself unable to leave and remained until meetings were concluded.  Another pastor from Oklahoma who was  scheduled to speak at separate conference could say very little and instead broke down in tears.  So great was the Spirits impact in his life.  "A Fire has been lit" What transpired in the afterglow of all these 2 days was akin to what Dostovesky once described in one of his famous novels, "The Possessed," a story about new revolutionary ideas, In it he stated,  "By our efforts we have lit a fire.  A fire in the minds of men.  It warms those who feel its power, it burns those who fight its progress, and one day this untamed fire of revival (he used the word 'freedom') will reach the darkest corner of the world."  After a turbulent literary evening, a fire breaks out and one of the townsmen says, "the fire is in the minds of men, not in the roofs of buildings." At the conference God not only challenged us but met with us, humbled us, broke us, then put us back together again, and set our hearts on fire!    From a Conference to a Retreat       Author, David Manuel keenly observed how God radically transformed the meetings from merely being a "conference" for leaders gathering together to hear a few individuals speak into a soul-searching "retreat" where the Holy Spirit began to reveal and then melt our hidden pride.  He was shedding His light in the darker recesses of our conscience to uncover our own hardened resistance to His promptings, lack of faith, and subtle, yet deeply entrenched complacent attitudes which all put together is a  glaring offense to a holy God.       Here in Colorado, we experienced on a smaller local scale what the face of this emerging national revival movement would begin to look like.  He is seeking after deep level brokenness, repentance, and humility, first, in his leaders before He can move upon the rest of the Body of Christ.   Without these characteristics, the revival that God desires will not take place.       The Guest Speakers and their Message  Peter Marshall Whetting our Appetite for National Revival      One of the things deeply etched in my mind that Peter stated at the beginning of his overview of Americas past revivals was that what was at stake today is not only America "but the very fate of Western Civilization.” Unless there is a deep, wide-spread national revival soon we will perish.          The founding of this great nation has the unique imprint of God all over it.  From it’s humble beginnings in Plymouth to the unique principles of self-government envisioned by the founding Fathers and by extension, its high calling to be a beacon light to the nations clearly indicates the unquestionable sense of divine election and destiny.  God has sovereignly sent revivals in the past not only to save souls for eternity but to awaken the body of Christ in America to recover this vision.  He can and desires to send another massive awakening to impact this nation.  It can and will happen, “If (that’s a big IF)  we are willing to pay the price. . .”       Allan Parker:  The Battle to Turn Roe v. Wade      Part of that price is our willingness as the corporate body of Christ to confront the great moral challenges of the day.  That is what leaders of The Second Great Awakening in 19th century America and William Wilberforce in England did as  they courageously battled to overturn the horrors of slavery.      Here in 21st century America, what greater injustice confronts us as a "called out" people than the 46 million plus babies that have been slaughtered on the altars of convenience and greed?       Allan Parker, President and founder of The Justice Foundation and legal counsel for both Norma McCorvey and Sandra Cano whose landmark cases legalized abortion in the U.S. shared how God had led him to undertake this herculean task to overturn the infamous 1973 Supreme Court ruling. Together with Clayton Trotter, Allen challenged  us to get involved through serious intercessory prayer and appropriate action to see the end of this awful holocaust.  The battle is far from over.    Coach Bill McCartney-Reconciliation Between Jewish & Gentile Believers       Unlike previous revival movements, there was little, if any attention, placed on the Jewish people.  Besides bad theology (replacement theology), another reason for this oversight has been the fact that Israel has not been a nation again until 1948.  During the previous great awakenings in the U.S., the Jewish people still had no homeland.       But now, in our day and age, we are witnessing the fulfillment of the promises of restoration of Israel foretold by the ancient Hebrew prophets.  In addition to the promise of national restoration of Israel, God is fulfilling His sovereign intentions of bringing the Jewish people to Messiah and to form the One New Man in Christ.  This is the ultimate reconciliation between  the races--Jewish believers and non-Jewish believers in Messiah.  God used Bill mightily to challenge us to proactively take the initiative towards reconciliation of our fellow Jewish brothers and sisters in Messiah.  I believe this will serve foundational in ushering in the greatest revival in world history prior to the return of the Son of God!       Reconcilliation Between Protestant and Catholic Leaders       Besides Protestant evangelicals and pentecostals who came together, the Lord brought several Charismatic Catholic leaders to the meetings.   Father Sebastian, a reformer-priest drove each day from Denver while Mary Healy and Mark Gargulinski from the Mother of God Community flew in from Gaithersburg, Maryland.       While respecting each others theological convictions and not attempting to convert each other to their respective sides, the Holy Spirit spontaneously brought us together in a spirit of humility, brokenness, and repentance for harboring deeply entrenched attitudes and historic prejudices towards one another and then showed us how much we really were united by faith in the atoning work of Jesus and in the power of His resurrection. It was amazing to behold.  Dick SimmonsCalling 500,000 Men to Pre-dawn Prayer       I met Dick last year in Washington D.C. as a participant of America For Jesus, headed up by Bishop John & Anne Gimenez.  The few days I spent at Dicks proved providential.   Thoroughly informed of the nations past and present and challenging us with the possibilities that lie before those who will dare to grab the "horns of the altar" and travail before a Holy God, Dick awakened in all of us like very few individuals can, to begin a sustained, earnest intercessory prayer lifestyle as the primary means of turning the tide of wickedness in our cities and states and ushering in a nation-wide awakening.  The well attended 5 A.M. prayer meetings testified to the effectiveness to his earnest  appeal.       I am planning to have Dick come out to Southern California on April 15-16 to conduct a 2 day mens intercessory booth camp.  We are targeting 500 men from 20-30 churches in our area to begin a 21 day predawn prayer offensive in the South Bay.  Ray BringhamThe Repentance Preacher       God is using this 85 year old holiness preacher and President & Founder of Prayer Summit to lead mighty repentance meetings.  I witnessed one in January as Clayton Trotter and Ray were used of God in an old Wesleyan Church in Maryland.  The 9 a.m. meeting went right into the second service uninterrupted as people came forward publicly to confess and repent of their premarital sex, unforgiveness, anger,  involvement in Masonry, etc.  After the Colorado conference Ray was invited to preach in Delta, Colorado where 7 churches came together and again the same spirit of repentance fell on the gathering.  Then a week later, in Casper, Wyoming, Ray led a repentance gathering which started at 7:30 p.m. he called me late at night and said, "Tatsuo, the repentance is still going on!"  It was 11:30 at night!   UPCOMING LEADERSHIP REVIVAL CONFERENCES  We will continue to conduct these Leadership Conferences for National Revival, as the Lord opens the doors.  If you are a pastor, a prayer leader or market place Christian leader hungry for revival in your area and are interested in having us come to your city or region please feel free to contact us @ (760) 738-4825 or  (310) 738-5970  For National Repentance & Revival, Ray Bringham & Tatsuo Akamine
 
 RALEIGH-DURHAM, NC ROUNDTABLE ON RACE
>From: Biblicalwm@aol.com

ROUNDTABLE ON RACE:  A GREAT SUCCESS
Dr. Dumas Harshaw of First Baptist Church of Raleigh did a wonderful job challenging the forty plus clergy at the eighth Roundtable on Race hosted at Building Together Ministries on Thursday, February 24th.  His challenge was for the church not to be asleep in the crisis hour, but rather to courageously face the challenges of our generation, including the issues of race that still separate our community and even many churches.  At our NEXT Roundtable, Dr. Harshaw and others will form a panel to discuss THE DIFFICULT QUESTIONS.
If you have a question relative to Race, Religion, and Reconciliation, please submit it to Biblical Wellness Ministries via email so we can compile a number of potential questions for group interaction.  We look forward to hearing from you today.
 
URBAN HEALTHCARE MINISTRY SEMINAR- AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE
Bob McGurty, Director of Healthcare Ministries in Springfield, Missouri, was the keynote speaker at the Urban Healthcare Ministry Seminar on Saturday, March 5, 2005.  Bob was joined by nurses, doctors, and pastors from all over the country to share how a healthcare ministry can open doors to sharing Christ with the lost. Pastors Christopher and Jacqueline Jones shared how this is already happening here in downtown Raleigh. Over sixty nurses, pastors, and lay persons were blessed by what was shared.  More information about the Urban Healthcare Seminar will be coming soon!
 
PASTOR AND SPOUSE PORTRAITS - APRIL 4, 2005
On Monday, April 4, 2005, a friend of BWM will be available to photograph pastors and their spouses from 7:30pm until 9pm. You will receive an 8x10 color print along with a CD containing the digital image files for making additional prints. Because of time, the portraits MUST be limited to pastor and spouse. There will be no charge for this service. If you are interested in participating, please call BWM at 919.783.6075 to make an appointment.  To see examples of portraits visit http://www.hbjnet.com/pastors.

II CHRONICLES 7:14  PASTORS PRAYER GATHERING - EVERY TUESDAY
Bethlehem Baptist Church 7215 Six Forks Road, Raleigh.  This gathering has been a followup to the Raleigh Promise Keepers outreach in 2002.  You are encouraged to join with area pastors to pray each Tuesday from (7:00am-8:00am) as we humble ourselves, seek God's face and confess our sins.  We pray that as we ourselves draw near to God in this way, the area Body of Christ will be encouraged to do likewise.  Such is the air that revival breathes.  For more information, please contact Bethlehem Baptist Church at 919.847.5219
 
RALEIGH PASTORS' PRAYER - 1ST AND 3RD THURSDAYS
Pastors are now meeting weekly for prayer in Raleigh.  Each 1st and 3rd Thursday at noon, area shepherds gather together for an hour to pray for one another, for the needs of the city, and for God to move in revival here in our region.  The host church is Raleigh International Church at 4020 Capital Blvd.  Interested pastors can call Pastor Olden Thornton at 919.875.0950.  Pray that God would bring many area pastors together each week to join in prayer.  Pray that their hearts would be knitted together and join with these pastors in praying for the Lord to bring a powerful work of spiritual awakening to the Church here in our area.  For more information, contact Don Rayno at Raleigh-Area Concerts of Prayer 919.388.3836.
 
DURHAM MINISTERS IN PRAYER - EACH TUESDAY
Dayspring Fellowship 922 9th Street, Durham.  919.286.1058
 
 PRAYER ACROSS AMERICA: FRANKFORT, COLUMBUS, INDIANAPOLIS, DES MOINES, DENVER
>From: "Phil Epperson" <jpepperson@comcast.net>

- - - - ->Prayer at Frankfort, Kentucky
Dear friends of the vision, once again we enjoyed a wonderful experience of prayer at the twentieth capitol building on our journey across America.  The weather had turned quite cold with snow flurries.  The State Senator and former Governor, Julian Carroll, who attends First Assembly of God church in Frankfort, made arrangements for us to come into the rotunda.  He and his wife had their hands raised toward heaven as we sang, "Great is thy faithfulness."  They were so deeply appreciative of what we were doing.

We had a private tour of the Capitol by the Chaplin.  He introduced me to many employees and legislators.  Most of them responded with testimonies of faith in Jesus Christ.  This was most unusual and so encouraging!  

Vicki and I went into the Chapel inside the Capitol building.  We prayed for coals of fire to be placed in this great capital city.  I read aloud Jeremiah 6.  In verse 27, it says, "I [says the Lord] have set you [Jeremiah] (Phillip and Victoria) as an assayer and a proverb of ore among My people that you may know and try their doings and be like a watchtower."  We stand at the gate of every state, the capitol building,  which leads to the gate of the Nation, Washington, DC.  We are seeing pieces of the puzzle come together, as we pray that the curse be broken and blessings be released in each state.

We met a great man of God, Dr. H.S. Ryan, who is the interim pastor at First Assembly of God in Frankfort, KY.  What a generous and supportive person he was to us.  He so believed in the vision the Holy Sprit has given us.  He was right beside us as we prayed in the rotunda.  He prayed the prayer of repentance for America.  

Our heart were so moved by each of the prayes prayed.  The three CWA ladies were so inspiring as they prayed and supported our efforts to pray for America.  Two ladies from NDP, one the State director, truly touched heaven with the prayer of faith as the prayer meeting was opened in the rotunda.

Pray for us as we head for Columbus, Ohio.  It is in Columbus where the vision was given in 1999 concerning coals of fire being placed in every Capital city.  Pray that many churches will be awakened to the wind of the Spirit that will begin to blow across the coals of fire.  We will then see another great awakening come to America one more time!

- - - - >Prayer Across America in Columbus, OH
Dear friends of the vision, we made it through our 21st capital prayer meeting.  It was very challenging with 30 degree temperature and a major snow shower just before our 1:00 PM prayer time.  

We were so excited about coming to Columbus, OH because of the vision a group of intercessors experienced in 1999.  Their vision was that coals of fire would be planted in every capital city and the wind of the Spirit would blow across them and a great awakening would coming to America from sea to shinning sea.

We have been placing coals of fire with the prophetic prayer of Zechariah 12:10a, "I will pour out the Spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David"...this happened 2000 years ago on the day of Pentecost.  Today, we must stir up this marvelous prophetic gift of prayer in every village, town, city, and state.  We believe the people will make their way back to the churches in America, and get on their face before God in an unprecedented way.  Even though the assignment is tough, the reward is so thrilling.

Even with the inclement weather, we had the Shofar blowers, several churches and pastors present along with an outstanding singer, Tommy Adams.  A wonderful group of young people with Masters Commission from Fairfield, near Cincinnati, were so supportive and prayed with us in the cold!  
 
We are now headed for Indianapolis, IN and Des Monies, Iowa.  Keep praying for us as we are diligent to this great call from the Holy Spirit.

- - - - >Prayer Across America in Indianapolis, IN

Dear friends of the vision, we just completed our 22nd Capital prayer meeting in Indianapolis, IN.  It was a cold day but over 35 people came to pray and intercede for Indiana and America.

We were so blessed with the welcome of the Senior Pastor of Lakeview Christian Center.  His heart for prayer is exceptional.  The Holy Spirit has called him to pray in 50 county Courthouses for one hour in the State of Indiana this next year.  We are getting prayer down to the grass roots.

The most astonishing revelation to my spirit in sometime, was given a few days ago while reading Exodus 32:7-14.  It was the rebellion of Israel as they worshipped the golden calf.  God was going to kill all the people and take Moses and his family and make a great nation out of them.  Moses, so humble, but so eloquent, argued like a great attorney with the Judge of all the earth to save the people.  God said the people belonged to Moses and Moses said the people were God's.  At the end of this great courtroom battle at the top of Mount Sinai, God withdraws His threat to bring disaster and sends Moses to be the one to discipline the people.  

The incredible truth that the Holy Spirit revealed to me was that God was acting consistently with His justice and had every right to destroy the people for their sin of rebellion.  Moses became the intercessor for the people and God relented in order to act consistently with His mercy.  Then the Holy Spirit showed me that as we pray at each Capitol building, we and those who join us in prayer, are the intercessors asking God not to destroy America but give us mercy!  We know that we are not the only ones interceding for America, but it truly encouraged my heart to learn this incredible principle.  There is one problem!  We don't know how long God will tolerate the sins of a nation if we don't truly repent!

- - - - >Prayer Across America in Des Moines, Iowa

Dear friends of the vision, we were so thankful for a sunny day with temperature around 40 degrees.  It was a very fruitful day as we stood on the steps of a magnificent capitol building recently refurbished.  The gold leaf domes and the beautiful rotunda was inspiring.

Our prayer time was well attended with a wonderful brother singing with great talent and inspiration.  Several churches were represented along with Concerned Women for America, Christian Coalition, and Iowa Family Policy Center.

Once again, we were blessed to connect with intercessors and a church that treated us like royalty.  The assistant pastor had lined up special music, pastors and parachurch leaders to pray.  We spoke at one of the churches on Wednesday evening.  I was quite ill on Wednesday but made it to church to speak and then asked for prayer.  I slept through the night as my fever broke by the next morning.  I just kept getting stronger through the day.  We were ready for a great prayer time by 1:00 pm today.

I am still greatly concerned for our nation and the churches that are not seeking the face of God for His mercy. God said to Moses after the great sin of rebellion of worshiping the golden calf, "I will not travel along with you, for you are a stubborn, unruly people.  If I did, I would be tempted to destroy you along the way."  God then assigned an angel to accompany the people.  How long will God tolerate the stubborn and unruly attitudes of many of our political leaders and yes, our church leaders who tolerate the sexual sins of Balaam and Jezebel.  It was sins like this in two of the seven churches of Asia.  Jesus said He would remove their Candle Stick as a result of their sins.

We are encouraged to find intercessors in each capital city.  Here in Des Moines, we found more prayer partners to keep us covered with prayer.  In a meeting with an intercessor today, we were told to press on and that this was indeed a work that the Lord wants completed.  

Keep praying for us as I know you do.  We so appreciate all of you for your faithful support.

I know you will be blessed!  As we traveled to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in the early part of our journey, struggling with the task, the Holy Spirit spoke to me that those who bless you will be blessed!

 - - - - >Prayer Across America Denver, CO

Dear friends of the vision, when we came to Denver last Saturday, we were met with over six inches of snow on Saturday night.  On Sunday morning we faced the elements and found two great churches of prayer.  The City Church and North Huron Christian Center.  It was so encouraging to find a place that wanted prayer not only in their church but a great awakening for their city.

We were so warmly received by various prayer groups in the city.  National Day of Prayer, Strategic Prayer Council, Abundant Life, CWA, and Promise Keepers.  They truly participated in the act of praying.

We spent time at the World Prayer Center in Colorado Springs.  We were invited to Promise Keeps home office for prayer.  What gracious people and humble spirits.  The Ark Of The New Covenant Ministries, Inc., blessed us so abundantly.  God is using many means to wake up America!  Please check the website of this incredible ministry.  www.ArkMinistries.net <http://www.ArkMinistries.net> .

Today, our spirits were high as we stood on the west steps of the mile high Capitol building.  There was a resonating spirit of worship and deep humility of prayer as we watched one hour with Jesus over this great city.  The sincerity and faith of those who gathered today, gives great hope for America!  They have already caught the awakening spirit that is coming to our nation.  They are unifying with one another in such a way that the Holy Spirit will truly come as a great awakening to the state of Colorado.

We are now half way through our journey and mission of prayer.  Denver, Colorado was number 25 on our way across the nation.  Someone said, with this capital one mile high, it will be down hill from now on!  

The challenges continue as we head for Cheyenne, Wyoming.  Only the Holy Spirit knows what is in store for us at the next assignment.  Please, keep praying for us.  The presence of the Lord is truly going with us on this great journey.

Pastor Phil and Vicki Epperson
 
 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: PRAYER CONNECTIONS
>From: Prayercntn@aol.com
>At: <http://www.prayercommandpost.org/>

 Southern California Prayer Connection E-Newsletter - February 2005
 
MAY 5 NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER.  See National site: http://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/ and the California site:  http://ndptfca.blogspot.com/

MAY 15 GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER -See:  http://www.gdop-usa.com/
 
MAY 19-21 HEALING CONFERENCE, SAN JOSE, CA.  See: http://www.glory-of-zion.org/conferences_0.htm
 
JUN 22-25 CHURCH PRAYER LEADERS NATIONAL CONFERENCE, MINNESOTA. See: http://www.prayerleader.com/
 
JUL 15-16 PROMISE KEEPERS "THE AWAKENING, ANAHEIM,  CA. See www.promisekeepers.org <http://www.promisekeepers.org/>
 
SEP 9-10 WOMEN OF FAITH, ANAHEIM, CA.  See www.womenoffaith.com <http://www.womenoffaith.com/>
 
SEP 29-OCT 1 PRAYCAL SCHOOL OF PRAYER, CHICO, CA.  See www.praycal.org <http://www.praycal.org/>  for future information.
 
OCT 7-8 PROMISE KEEPERS "THE AWAKENING, SAN JOSE, CA. See www.promisekeepers.org <http://www.promisekeepers.org/>
 
BETHEL CHURCH CONFERENCES with Bill Johnson & others. REDDING, CA See: www.ibethel.org/ <http://www.ibethel.org/>  
  July 20-22, 2005 - Jesus Culture Youth Conference

Other Ongoing Meetings:
    SURROUND CALIFORNIA IN PRAYER - FOCUSED PRAYER FOR THE 58 COUNTIES IN CALIFORNIA.  See http://www.praycal.org/cta-20050103.pdf <http://www.praycal.org/cta-20050103.pdf>
    Quarterly Legacy Sessions with a focus on "a gathering of generations who will laugh, ponder, listen, pray, create, and together humble their way deeper into God's heart" will be hosted by Reignbridge (in Camarillo, CA).  See www.reignbridge.com <http://www.reignbridge.com/>  for more info.
    GATHERING OF THE HEALERS -The Prayer Command Post will begin hosting gatherings of those that are involved in healing ministries in the Southern CA area.  If you are involved in a healing ministry and would like to connect to others for networking, prayer, support and encouragement, please email Lynn at prayercntn@aol.com and information will be sent to you.  Information will also be posted on our website in the near future: www.prayercommandpost.org <http://www.prayercommandpost.org> .
 
ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAINING AND PRAYER:
1. Check out the Destiny Training Center for ongoing equipping seminars at: www.destinytrainingcenter.com <http://www.destinytrainingcenter.com/>
2. The Int'l School of Reconciliation has open enrollment (web based). The School features 4 sections: a) The Biblical Basis of Reconciliation b) The Person as Reconciler c) Reconciliation Around the World d) On-site Practicum (held in Ventura County). Info at: www.gracebridge.org <http://www.gracebridge.org/>
3.  Equipping for church prayer pastors and coordinators. See www.prayerleader.com <http://www.prayerleader.com/>
4. I highly recommend the In Christ's Image Online School for going deeper with God and growing in Christlikeness. Info at: www.frangipane.org <http://www.frangipane.org/>
 
* The So. CA Prayer Connection event section seeks to inform others on upcoming prayer and leadership conferences mainly in the greater Southern CA and CA areas with occasional national events also listed.

PRAYER MINISTRY NETWORKS OF CALIFORNIA
If you want more information on prayer leaders, groups and networks across California, please see the following websites:
www.praycal.org <http://www.praycal.org/> Pray California
www.ccnews.org <http://www.ccnews.org/> Current Christian News
www.prayercommandpost.org <http://www.prayercommandpost.org/> Prayer Command Post
 http://caprayerissues.blogspot.com/ <http://caprayerissues.blogspot.com/>  for California Prayer Concerns
http://ndptfca.blogspot.com/ <http://ndptfca.blogspot.com/>  National Day of Prayer CA Events
http://www.ezekiellist.com/ <http://www.ezekiellist.com/>   Prophetic Words for CA
 
NATIONAL PRAYER MINISTRIES - CA COORDINATORS:
Lydia Fellowship - Rene Rutland 949-552-0322 web: www.lydiafellowship.org <http://www.lydiafellowship.org/>
Moms In Touch (S.CA) - Sue Mooney eml: mitisoca@momsintouch.org <mailto:mitisoca@momsintouch.org>   web:  www.momsintouch.org <http://www.momsintouch.org/>  / N.CA: Libby: mitinoca@momsintouch.org <mailto:mitinoca@momsintouch.org>
Nat'l Day of Prayer - So. CA Coord: Sharon Barnes sharonann@cityreachingwomen.com <mailto:sharonann@cityreachingwomen.com>  CA Coord: Joe Walsh 916-344-1630  eml: walshusa@pacbell.net <mailto:walshusa@pacbell.net>  <mailto:walshusa@pacbell.net>
Women's Aglow - Julia Reiff eml: jreiff@lodinet.com <mailto:jreiff@lodinet.com>   web:  www.aglow.org <http://www.aglow.org/>
Healing Rooms - Marty & Elyse Reitzin  805-683-8783 web:  www.healingrooms.com <http://www.healingrooms.com/>
National Pastors Prayer Network (check for local pastors prayer groups in your area) - Phil Miglioratti www.nppn.org <http://www.nppn.org/>

A WORD IN DUE SEASON - ABIDING TRUST
Trust and Rest are two of the most powerful weapons that a believer possesses that causes delight to the Lord and fear to the enemy.  I believe the Lord is maturing us into deeper places of trust with an overflow of the fruit of peace and rest.  A trusting in the goodness of God when external circumstances seem to shout that God is not good at all.  A trusting in God's faithfulness when we see no evidence of God around us.  A trusting in God's love in the midst of a harsh world.  I believe that when we continue to trust in who God says He is, despite all that is swirling around us that tries to confuse us, then there is a deeper place of abiding that the Lord brings us into that welcomes the presence of God in broader ways.  None of us have totally obtained this place, but I do believe that the Lord is putting an unquenchable thirst to seek Him for this place of Abiding Trust that will bring an internal stability like nothing else.
    "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Ps 62:5-8
   Beloved, may we all find deeper places of abiding trust in the One whom our souls love.
    Together for His glory,
    Lynn Heatley

 
National Pastors' Prayer Network
1130 Randville Drive ID, Palatine, IL 60074
847-991-0153 * 847-358-9337(fax)
http://www.nppn.org * email: phil@nppn.org
Register your PPG: http://www.nppn.org/ppg/

Phil Miglioratti - Coordinator: phil@nppn.org
Carol Miglioratti - Office Manager: office@nppn.org
Sheila Straka - Intercession: sheila@nppn.org
Chuck Straka - Web Master: straka1@nppn.org
Adam Shields - Tech Support: updates@nppn.org
Carol Karr - Administrative Services

___Unless clearly identified as "Personal To _____" or "Confidential" all information and comments sent to phil@nppn.org will be considered for use in a future NPPN Update.
___Copyright 2005. However, permission is granted to freely redistribute to those who will partner in praying for and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with everyone in our nation and beyond.
___Opinions reflect the views of each author or respondent, not the NPPN or any other person or organization