National
Pastors'
Prayer
Network
CITY
CONNECTIONS
04/16/2004
2004 Year of Prayer for Pastors
http://www.prayingpastor.com
I N T H I S U P D A T E ... and for
our prayers:
* A NOTE FROM PASTOR PHIL
1. TRENDS & TRIALS OF CITY TRANSFORMATION
2. NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER IN OUR CITIES
3. TIME TO RE-INVITE NEARBY PASTORS TO YOUR PPG?
4. A REPORT FROM YOUR CITY...
5. LA / SoCA PROCLAMATION INITIATIVE
6. AUSTIN, TX: CITYWIDE PRAYER INITIATIVE
7. FRESNO, CA; CITYBUILDERS UPDATE
8. PACIFIC NORTHWEST CITY IMPACT ROUNDTABLE NOTES
9. CHICAGO, IL: KARITOS AND CIR
10. THE CHURCH OF GREATER ATHENS, GA:
COP & PRESENCE-BASED CONFERENCE
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
* A NOTE FROM PASTOR PHIL
As you'll read in the notes just below, truly reaching our cities in an
impacting and influencing way takes time, persistence, coordinated prayer and
collaborative evangelism.
Which is why we have included these initiatives in this NPPN Update.
Opportunities for increased communication, improved cooperation, and innovative
collaboration with one another.
And why I continue to ask you to consider the:
Regional City Impact Roundtable
http://www.cityreaching.com
Citywide Prayer Leaders Consultation
http://www.prayertransformation.com
scroll down the front page...
With you for a prayed-for nation on May 6th,
Phil
___________________________________________________>>>
1. TRENDS & TRIALS OF CITY
TRANSFORMATION
--->NPPNote: The following dialogue took place on the
monthly City / Community Conference Call with several dozen city reachers from
across the country. To receive invites to the monthly call, send an email to
info@cityreaching.com with Subject: Requesting Monthly Conference Call
Announcements
Mission America Coalition
Cities and Communities Conference Call
April 15, 2004
10 a.m. Central (8 am Pacific, 9 am Mountain, 11 am Eastern)
Topic: An over-the-airwaves
City Impact Roundtable (CIR)
Phil Miglioratti welcomed callers,
asking them to identify themselves by name and city.
The focus today is on what God is doing in the area of city reaching and
transformation. I have called upon several who have facilitated CIRs during the
past year. Also invited on the call are 3 folks who will take a couple of
minutes each on some items that have to do with city reaching. But first, I
have asked Tom White to open the call with prayer.
Tom, noting these days of crisis, extreme challenge, around the world, prayed We
seek you first and your kingdom, renouncing our own ways and wisdom. We ask you
by the Holy Spirit to knit our thoughts together for your kingdom.
Phil asked those who have a mute function on their phones to use it. This is a
round table, so we wont mute you out because we want everyone talking. Please
pop in with your comments.
I. Citywide Prayer Leaders Consultation.
Steve Loopstra: The question is often asked, What is the uniqueness of the
Citywide Prayer Leaders Consultation as compared to CIR? It is specifically
designed to gather together those who have heart for citywide and area wide
prayer. It might be someone who is part of a city leadership team, designated
in area of prayer; perhaps someone who has been designated to lead the prayer
movement in their city. We specifically invite prayer leaders there is no other
venue for prayer leaders who have that scope of responsibility to meet together.
This is our fourth meeting, scheduled for July 18-20 in Ventura, CA at a hotel
on the beach. You can download the info brochure if you go to
www.prayertransformation.com. Click on the link on the front page.
Phil noted that a city reacher might not be a point person on prayer. Would
this be a good place for a city reacher to come? Steve said it would be a great
place for a city reacher to come, to cross-pollinate, and to hear what God is
doing, how He is working in other cities. A city reacher coming with his/her
prayer point person would leave with a greater understanding, and it would
enhance what they are doing in their city.
Phil: We are excited to hear that Daniel Bernard has a book coming out
on city reaching. The title is City Impact: How to Empower and Mobilize
to Transform Your Community. It will be in bookstores Oct 1, published by
Chosen Books. In it I share scripturally and from my experience (both OT and
NT) trying to encompass people who want to reach their neighborhoods. There is
a lot of practical stuff, a chapter on mobilizing the marketplace, how to bring
the haves and have-nots of business to tangibly touch their community. This
might be a book city reachers or pastors could use with their people.
Phil asked, Are there study questions? How could it be used for church members?
Daniel: There isnt actually a study guide, but a lot of how-tos. There
is a how-to leadership section, i.e. beginning and sustaining leadership groups,
stories and illustrations of how business people and housewives have impacted
their communities. I think people can walk away with scriptural convictions of
why we need to work together. It was an Old Testament story that prompted me to
come back to my hometown, Tama Bay. It was about Ehud, the left-handed guy who
slew the fat king they were retaking their city of Jericho. There are types and
similarities in how the enemy overruns communities through the disobedience of
the church. Ehud means union or unity, and God spoke to me about the need for
unity to impact our cities.
Phil: One last question: Is there any more information on the book anywhere?
Daniel: www.sctb.org should have information, or if someone
wants a particular section, Ill be happy to email a section. Daniel@sctb.org.
One chapter has 80 ways to bring unity to your community.
II. National Day of Prayer (NDP)
Phil: How can city reachers work together with NDP?
Jim Weidman: NDP is an opportunity to leave church walls and enter
the public square. What has sparked our focus have you heard about
Transformation Africa? It began with a prayer conference, and has spread to a
thousand venues over 53 countries. Bob Bakke has been doing televised NDP
conference for 10 years. We want to marry the grassroots to technology. We
have a five-site simulcast. Originating from the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, it
will be in NYC with Salvation Army, Daytona Beach Raceway where 150 pastors have
united to bring 150,000, expect 10,000 in a park in Pennsylvania, and 5,000 in
an arena in St. Louis. This kind of event creates a buzz, a light on a hill
that cannot be hidden. The media is calling them about these events. What a
great way to bring people together and lead people to Christ. These citywide
events are the manifestation of unity in a community, pointing them to our
heavenly Father. I think of the story of a man in NJ who saw an ad for the
observance, liked what the pastor had to say, went to his church, and in 3
months, became a believer, was baptized, and with his family became members of
that church.
Phil: Give 2 or 3 ways that city reachers can connect and enhance that unity
effort. Jim Go to the website: www.NationalDayofPrayer, org.
We post as many observances as we know of. We have state coordinators posted.
City reachers could come alongside them to benefit what we are trying to
accomplish. You cannot call a nation to prayer without the church. You city
reachers are working to mobilize your cities. This is an opportunity to use a
national holiday in that process.
IV.
Trends and Trials in City reaching
Phil introduced Tom White, who has
recently come on as co-convener of City Impact Roundtables. Phil asked
callers, at least the first time or two, to tell us your name and city. Several
on the call have been CIR conveners or facilitators. Would you please identify
yourselves, i.e. Phil Miglioratti, Chicago, facilitated Chicago.
I just read this in Mission Magazine. I read about the meetings and
conferences. In the long run, what is the fruit of those conferences? Ralph
Winters response: Some are worthwhile, some not so. What is the value of
conversation? Some is helpful, some is not. Phil said, As we spend the rest
of this time meeting, my hope is this is worthwhile. Tom White, share a few
thoughts. You convened a regional CIR.
Tom White: In the Pacific NW (Idaho, Washington and Oregon), we have
convened three invitation only roundtables, doing some basic assessment. I like
the work synergy. I think all of us have discovered that where pastors alone
are involved in reaching a city, there is sort of a pastors cul-de-sac. Men and
women of influence in the marketplace are needed in the leadership mix. There
is a trend, recognition of the need to pull others of the priesthood of
believers, from government, the arts, media, the marketplace.
When you get to the difference of DNA between pastoral leadership and larger
sphere of leadership, i.e. walking in to the mayors office, you are offering no
strings servanthood. How do we maximize this for the harvest, spiritual fruit,
and keep the great commission in view? Some thoughts emerged when we met two
weeks ago: Many of us are in our 40s and 50s. How do we come alongside the
younger generation? We all laughed when it was described as the Po-mo
generation (post modern). How do we help them harness their energy? From their
standpoint, our generation is good at meetings; they want to jump in and do
something. How do we walk forward with wisdom to work creatively together? We
need to pull the different dynamics together. Another quick thought: what
might be a trial or difficulty sometimes there is a feeling of lack of
supernatural favor or momentum. It sometimes seems we are trying to push
forward, perhaps running ahead, rather than seeing God manifest Himself and
following after Him. My heart cry is God, show us where we need to repent, not
lean on our own understanding, see what He is doing and follow after. What is
happening in Africa and Asia were not seeing that in the states. We are in
crisis, seeing all kinds of things happening. I want to see that deep passion
for following Gods lead.
Phil asked for responses to these introductory comments, or additions to the
list. While I dont expect we will fully answer any of these, I hope this call
will help all of us,
Harold Hendrick, St. Louis. We had a fine CIR last May with Glenn Barth.
This year we are planning one for September, with the emphasis on minorities
being full partners. Jarvis Ward is coming in next week to help prepare for the
fall CIR in St. Louis, hoping for greater ethnic representation. The
black/white issue is improving, but keeps surfacing. We also have a great
Bosnian population. We are trying to bring many ethnic partners in.
Paul Hoy, Columbus: We did Midwest regional last September. Glenn Barth
came down. We had participation from all the major cities of Ohio as well as
Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. We shared about best practices, made some good
connections that have continued. This year we have decided to strengthen
relationships among those who are giving primary leadership to city movements
and through those relationships and prayer, do what Tom White is talking about:
Ask the Holy Spirit what He wants us to do, when and how. A group of us are
going around the state, meeting with prospective leaders. In our city we have
2-3 things happening that I think will take us to the next level with the
business leaders (marketplace). Weve begun to use those seven areas of
influence. Was it Eric Swanson who did that paper? Jack Dennison circulated it
about a year ago. Loren Cunningham and Bill Bright had come up with the same
points back in the 70s. Were trying to get people engaged in the movement from
all those seven areas. Were making progress. We want to develop Kingdom
Capital Venture, like Pittsburgh. We are working with Half-time out of
Dallas, with some of the larger churches, pastors, business leaders and para
church leaders to build a replicable model - everyone coming is reading The
Church of Irresistible Influence and trusting God to transform the Body of
Christ in our community into a functional bridge. Bottom line: that our city
would be filled with the glory of God and all the people would praise him.
Finances are a big piece; we hope Half-time will be able to help us.
The third part is a ministry resource group that possesses the skill groups,
accounting, planning, legal, compliance, governance those things that wear
people out trying to do things they arent gifted to do. This could be the
administrative back room part of the ministry that frees leaders to do what they
are gifted to do.
Dennis Fuqua, Portland, OR: We convened the Northwest CIR with Tom and
Montie Ralstin. Weve implemented some, desire to enhance time at CIR what weve
done in the past is identify a specific topic or two, focus on those during this
roundtable. I like the idea of having people do their homework, like Pauls
group reading the book our time will be much more productive if people come
prepared.
Phil: Our Chicago group with 75-85 people had done such a good job of
getting church members there, but many were at a 101 level, so we had to work to
bring them on board.
Dennis: we wanted to avoid working at the lowest common denominator,
spending maximum time taking steps forward.
Phil: Someone said your CIR was sort of under the radar, invitation
only. Have you heard any reaction to that? Tom: Obviously we have
blind spots, but I havent picked that up. Dennis agreed. I have not
heard any negative feedback. What we are thinking about using a document to
define who we are. This will define who will benefit most by participating.
Bob Mackey, Cleveland: When you did your invitation only approach, what
was the % of those who came compared to the % invited? Tom: initially
it was 70-80% of those we targeted, the veteran practitioners with 10 years plus
experience. The second CIR was best attended. The last one was a scheduling
issue. It was too close to the December meeting, with lower attendance. We
will expand the invitation list; broaden the invitation list, and expecting 30
or so in December.
Phil: Is it possible to meet too often? Tom: Yes, it felt too
close to last December. For us, early December, after Thanksgiving/before
Advent, works well. Dennis is doing a good job, coming up with some drafts. I
provide synopses, but we are trying to list clear objectives so people in the
cities will say, Thats me. I need to be a part of that.
Phil suggested they put some of their stuff on the website. Then he said,
Tom mentioned lack of supernatural favor, supernatural momentum. Agree?
Disagree?
Joe Walsh, Sacramento: Every area has timing. Im driving to a pastors
meeting to talk about a CIR. Weve been talking about doing this for two years.
Timing involves trust building; things are starting to come together. Dont be
frustrated. God has timing for every city and region. I caught the word
synergy in what Tom said. Im more of a networker. I get involved in lots of
things, i.e. NDP for CA, Christian Emergency Network. We are noticing that a
lot of the same people are involved in many of the same things, and that helps
bring regional leadership cohesiveness. You dont have to rebuild the bridge
every time you get together. Its paying big dividends that we dont have to
re-explain ourselves every time we meet.
Bern Lytle, NY. In early March we had our first New York state prayer
summit. It evolved out of a village prayer summit. Tom White has been involved
in the past. This is the first time it has gone statewide, both upstate,
downstate and New York City. It meant a lot for them to come humbly to this
part of the state. In the evenings we had times of communion together along the
prayer summit model. It brought together 75-80 leaders from Buffalo to NYC to
Elmira, etc. For the first time we are excited about what God is doing
statewide.
Phil: As weve been saying, it cant be just pastors or just praying, but
you remind me that we arent abandoning praying or pastors; we are more
comprehensive.
Dennis Fuqua: I would certainly agree with what you have said. We
certainly dont want to move away from pastoral perspective. We need to
recognize that God has called people who are a vital part of the whole process
who are in other areas.
Joe Walsh: We are talking Kingdom. Weve been using the phraseology of
working together in Gods kingdom.
Tom asked Bern to state their vision: We want to be known for
Kingdom State, not the Empire State.
Curt Morgan, representing Jay Richmond, affirmed the good impact of the
NY meeting. One thing we are finding in our area is that the background for our
gatherings is 22 different pastors prayer groups meeting in about a 50 mile
radius, meeting with mayors and town supervisors, etc. The fellowship that is
built in each of those is accomplishing leadership development, Jay has called
us to have the pastors who are getting together in town halls call their
respective churches together for their city. We try to do that on a quarterly
basis in our town, gather all the pastors and have the congregations come
together to pray for the same issues. We did that in February, asking all to
pray for 15 items for their area, ie. protection of children of the county. The
next day there was a shooting in a local school. A student told a reporter,
When I saw the flash of the gun I fell to the floor. I called his mother and
asked what happened. She said, I dont know much about guardian angels, but I
believe there were some present there. At first I was disappointed that there
was a shooting after our prayer, but then I realized God had protected our
children.
Phil: Im excited to hear so many of you mention pastors prayer groups in
a vibrant setting. Weve found about 825 pastors prayer groups. If you know of
a pastors prayer group we dont know about, please let me know. I hope its just
the tip of the iceberg. It helps pastors know that they arent alone.
Phil: As we listen to ourselves talk, are we sensing any maturity,
development? Is city reaching just moving ahead day by day, or is there a
maturity of thinking, acting, and development?
Terry Larson was part of the Southern California CIR just over a year
ago. She said, What weve been seeing out here is change of attitude from city
government, seeking the favor of the church, not only in providing services, but
we have been approached regarding a day labor problem. We have started a
one-stop center, with a variety of ministries coming together. Phil:
Youve worked hard to make demonstration part of proclamation.
Bob: If you think of everything that God has made available to you
today: Would it have made a difference if you had those resources 5 years ago?
The united response was Without a doubt.
Ross Briles: I am reminded that this is not a quick fix scenario, not a
sprint but a marathon.
Phil: Time has run out. The next conference cal is May 20. The notes
for this call will be posted at www.cityreaching.com. We will let you
know when they are posted so you can refer to them.
Terry Larson was asked to close our time with prayer.
Submitted by Carolyn OBrien City/Community Ministries
___________________________________________________>>>
2. NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER IN OUR
CITIES
MINNESOTA
This coming May 6th is the National Day of Prayer. We have seen a rally
at the capitol to express support for a marriage amendment, NOW is our
opportunity to gather together on the steps of the Capitol to CELEBRATE our
freedom to gather and pray for our state and our country. This years rally at
the capitol will really focus us on our praying. I invite you to come, bring
your family, come as a church, and lets lift our voice as The Church to the
Throne of Grace to find grace to help in these times of need. Below is more
information for you and your church. If you are planning something for your
church or with other churches in your community, would you let us know? We want
to share that information. I have also attached a Word file that you can use as
a bulletin insert for your church.
I do also want to pass on to you the good news that we have received this
years proclamation from Governor Pawlentys office. Thank you Governor!!
Resources:
The National Day of Prayer Task Force: www.nationaldayofprayer.org
<http://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/> . Orders: (800) 444-8828. Information:
(719) 531-3379. Resource guide includes products such as flyers, posters,
bulletin inserts, bookmarks, prayer guides and artwork.
Minnesota National Day of Prayer: www.ndpminnesota.org
<http://www.ndpminnesota.org/> . State coordinator is Sharon Auldrich at
auldrich@ndpminnesota.org. Website lists events being held across the state,
including prayer services, Nationally Broadcast Concert of prayer sites, prayer
breakfasts, If you have an event planned, let Sharon know so it can be posted on
the website.
Nationally Broadcast Concert of Prayer, and life broadcast over KTIS.
Again this year we are thrilled that KTIS is hosting a live in-studio broadcast
for the evening of the National Day of Prayer, 6:30 9:00 pm. We will have
in-studio guests and will connect live with the Nationally Broadcast Concert of
Prayer with links with locations across the country and around the world.
Your servant in Christ, Steve Loopstra, Executive Director, Prayer
Transformation Ministries
TAMPA BAY
Share the Passion The National Day of Prayer
Millions to "Let Freedom Ring"
President Bush and all 50 governors will proclaim 53rd annual National Day of
Prayer
Clearwater, FL - As American troops continue fighting for liberty in
various countries, citizens in the Tampa Bay Area and across the United States
are preparing to celebrate their freedom to gather, worship and pray. Millions
will answer the call to prayer on May 6, 2004, the 53rd annual National Day of
Prayer. In conjunction with this special day, dozens of events are planned for
the Tampa Bay Area.
"Our leaders confront difficult challenges every day and our society faces a
future of uncertainty," said National Day of Prayer Task Force Chairman Shirley
Dobson. "We live in the land of the free where we the people can openly call
upon God for wisdom, protection and blessing. In order to realize the potential
outlined in the Declaration of Independence, we must continue seeking Divine
Counsel, asking for His intervention and direction."
As in previous years, President George W. Bush, all 50 governors and the
governors from the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are expected to sign
proclamations setting aside the first Thursday in May as a day of prayer.
Dobsons Task Force spearheads the event powered by a large grassroots network.
An estimated 40,000 coordinators and volunteers will host events that take place
at courthouses, state capitols, city halls, parks and around school flagpoles
across the nation. Many churches, firehouses and schools will ring their bells
at noon to invite their communities to unite on bended knee.
Local observances include prayer at Tampa City Hall (11 am 1 pm), St.
Petersburg City Hall (noon) and a Prayer marathon at the Royalty Theatre in
Clearwater. For a complete list of local events, go to www.letsprayusa.org
or www.needprayer.com. According to Bill and Pam Malone, Tampa Bay Area
Coordinators, There is POWER in unity and corporate prayer. Please join
together with your brothers and sisters in Christ on this National Day of
Prayer, May 6, 2004!
The theme for this years event is "Let Freedom Ring" and is based on Leviticus
25:10, "proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants." Dobson,
wife of Focus on the Family founder and chairman Dr. James Dobson, said the
opportunity to openly pray should not be missed. "By uniting in the public
arena, we will be a nation filled with individuals of faith," she said. "Some
countries do not allow its citizens to elect their leaders much less express
their beliefs according to conscience. However, America was built by men and
women of deep religious conviction and it is a privilege to approach the Lord
with boldness and without fear of persecution."
Retired Marine Colonel Oliver North is the 2004 Honorary Chairman and will
provide the keynote address at the national event in Washington, D.C. In
addition to his appearance at the national observance, North has released, True
Freedom: The Liberating Power of Prayer, which is this years theme book.
The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United
States when the Continental Congress issued a proclamation setting aside a day
of prayer in 1775. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and, in
1988, that law was amended, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first
Thursday in May.
Contact: Bill or Pam Malone, Tampa Bay Area Coordinators (727-524-7729);
prayusasf@aol.com
ST. LOUIS
We invite you to our simulcast in St. Louis at the Edward Jones Dome.
It is connected with Bob Bakke and Concert of Prayer. St. Louis is one of five
cities joining his telecast on National Day of Prayer, May 6 at 7:00 pm. Dick
Bott with Bott radio is our honorary chairman. Greg Stier with Dare to Share
youth ministry is one of our speakers. It will be a three hour prayer service
and we are excited about our meeting with the Lord!
Sue Stoltz, Midwest National Area Leader for NDP
10475 Bennish Lane, Rolla, Mo. 65401
573-364-6462
sstoltz@fidnet.com
FLORIDA
List your prayer event on the Florida Prayer Network web site -
www.floridaprayer.org
<http://www.floridaprayer.org/> . Nationally Broadcast Concert of Prayer
that night, see www.concertofprayer.org
<http://www.concertofprayer.org/> for info.
CALIFORNIA PRAYER LOCATIONS
http://www.nationaldayofprayerCA.org/prayerlocations.htm
http://www.candp.org
INDIANA
http://www.ndp-in.org/
___________________________________________________>>>
3. TIME TO RE-INVITE NEARBY PASTORS
TO YOUR PPG?
--->NPPNote: This invitation (below) reminded me to
encourage you (facilitators of Pastors' Prayer Groups) to reissue your
invitation to nearby Pastors. SO what if they said "No thanks" in the past.
Maybe God s answering your prayers to draw more Pastors together for prayer and
collaborative ministry. Give them a call. Or better yet, stop by and say hi.
See what the Holy Spirit does!
>From: Pastorsnet@aol.com
>At:
http://www.qhappy.com/pn/index.htm
If you are a Pastor of a smaller church we'd love to have you come and visit the
Pastors Network. Our new location is Denny's Restaurant at Grand and Baseline
right off the 210 Fwy.
Lunch time is from 12:30-1:30 p.m. At 1:30 p.m. the meeting will begin until
3:00 p.m. Pastors from all over Southern California come together to pray, for
fellowship, to laugh and for important insight and information with regards to
ministry.
Michael & Adelle McKinney
The Pastors Network of Southern California
Meeting the 3rd Thursday of the Month at
Denny's Restaurant in Glendora except in December.
(626) 966-9876 #2
___________________________________________________>>>
4. A REPORT FROM YOUR CITY...
Would encourage others!
What is God doing through your Pastors' Prayer Group or citywide ministry?
Send your story or comments to: phil@nppn.org
___________________________________________________>>>
5. LA / SoCA PROCLAMATION INITIATIVE
>From: "GREATER LA City Pastors and Leaders Coalition"
<prayunceasingly@juno.com>
Believe it or not, only about 20% of LA Southern California based Christians
know about the Crusade coming up July 29 - August 1, 2004. We need help to
distribute the next two issues throughout Southern California. Please let us
hear from you, now.
The Crusade needs your involvement and volunteers right now so that the greatest
number of people can be reached and impacted for Jesus Christ in your church and
community.
If you have not heard this event mentioned in your church, please pass this
information on to your pastor.
For your church to become involved and reap the greatest benefits from the
Crusade it is crucial that leaders from your congregation become involved and
attend one of the following
Billy Graham Crusade Involvement Seminars. Opportunities for involvement will
be presented, along with free materials at these meetings.
Montebello
Monday, April 19
7:30 9:30 p.m.
Calvary Chapel Montebello
931 South Maple Avenue
Between Washington Boulevard and Beach Street
Torrance
Tuesday, April 20
10:00 12:00 noon
King's Harbor Church
23915 Garnier Street
Between Lomita Boulevard and Skypark Drive
Long Beach
Tuesday, April 20
7:30 9:30 p.m.
Long Beach Christian Fellowship
3210 East Airport Way
North of I-405, between Redondo Avenue and East Spring Street
.Anaheim
Wednesday, April 21
7:30 9:30 p.m.
Sa-Rang Community Church
1111 North Brookhurst Street
At the corner of North Brookhurst Street and West La Palma Avenue
Pasadena
Thursday, April 22
10:00 12:00 noon
First Church of the Nazarene-Pasadena
3700 East Sierra Madre Boulevard (Lee Chapel)
North of 210, west of Michillinda
Inglewood
Thursday, April 22
7:30 9:30 p.m.
First Church of GodCenter of Hope
9550 Crenshaw Boulevard
At the corner of Crenshaw Boulevard and Hardy Avenue, 1 block north of Century
Boulevard
Chino
Friday, April 23
7:30 9:30 p.m.
Calvary Chapel of Chino Hills
4201 Eucalyptus Avenue
Near the corner of Eucalyptus Avenue and Pipeline Avenue
Arcadia
Saturday, April 24
10:00 12:00 noon
Arcadia Presbyterian Church
121 Alice Street
At the corner of Alice Street and First Avenue
Phone: 626/793-8000 Fax:
626/793-7802 Web: www.lacrusade.com E-mail: info@lacrusade.com 3/22/2004
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 60338, Pasadena, CA 91116-0338 Street Address: 572
East Green Street, Suite 300 Pasadena, CA 91101-2079 Reach the REAL LIFE AND
TIMES staff on line at www.REALLIFEANDTIMES.com or call (818) 785-9178 for more
details.
___________________________________________________>>>
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http://www.nppn.org/ppg/
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http://www.cityreaching.com/
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___________________________________________________>>>
6. AUSTIN, TX: CITYWIDE
PRAYER INITIATIVE
>From: "Apostolic Bridge Builders" <abb@citytransformers.com>
We have mobilized an average of 60 Churches for 24/7 prayer ... The "Seek God
for the City" project (40 day prior to Easter and after). This has taken place
for more than 2 years in Austin Metro. Last year, we had about 100 days covered
for 24/7 prayers for our region through this and our CIR-child-365 Prayer
project:
http://www.365prayerproject.org
C. Benjamin Anyacho, Austin, TX
___________________________________________________>>>
7. FRESNO, CA; CITYBUILDERS UPDATE
>From: One by One Leadership [mailto:contact@onebyoneleadership.com]
800 Rise Early for Fresno-Clovis Prayer
Breakfast
On March 16, 2004 approximately 800 people gathered to break bread and offer
prayer for civic, business, congregational and community leaders. Among the
speakers at the event were pastors, Police Chief Jerry Dyer and the main
speaker, Tim Philpot, who spoke about the need to pray for and support those in
public office and service as they strive to make our communities better places
to live. Outcome: People from every sector of the community
connect through prayer.
30 Day Countdown to
Intersections Conference 2004 Begins!
The conference will be held April 29, 30 and May 1 in Downtown Fresno.
Intersections is an informative, concentrated three day conference that
connects hundreds of community leaders from across the nation to one another
as they share knowledge, learn equipping practices and explore numerous
transforming opportunities. This conference will also feature a unique service
opportunity through Agents of Grace - A community-wide day of service. For
more information or to register visit www.onebyoneleadership.com
<http://www.onebyoneleadership.com> . Come, Connect, Serve, Build and
Transform - Intersections Conference 2004! Outcome:
Connecting hundreds of diverse leaders to one another and transformational best
practice models. Breakfast with Fred - Balancing Life & Stretching
Others Fred Smith, original member of Billy Graham's team, nationally
recognized business leader, former chairman of YFC USA and Christianity Today,
a long time friend of One by One Leadership and a mentor to many in Fresno and
around the world has a fantastic website for leaders! Breakfast with Fred (http://www.breakfastwithfred.com).
Join others in reading about leadership principles and insights in a way that
only Fred can deliver.
One by One Leadership
Phone: (559) 233-2000
1727 L Street Fax: (559) 233-2810
Fresno, Ca 93721 Website: http://www.onebyoneleadership.com
___________________________________________________>>>
8. PACIFIC NORTHWEST CITY IMPACT
ROUNDTABLE NOTES
March 29 & 30, 2004
Many prayer leaders located in the Pacific Northwest have been on a fifteen year
journey, asking and believing God to bring forth a new paradigm of His presence
moving in and through the one Body of Jesus in our city or regional contexts. At
this point in our journey, many of us feel that the results of our endeavors are
not commensurate with the earnestness and energy invested. Were asking honest,
evaluative questions, and seeking God afresh for what He intends to do in our
cities. Our geography represents the most unchurched region in America. We
cannot and must not fall prey to retrospective disillusionment. We must get a
clear, fresh vision of where and how God is moving in cities, embrace this
vision with bold leadership, and go there.
In April, 2003, Randy Bridges, Dennis Fuqua and Tom White called together a
small group of veteran city practitioners from around the Pacific Northwest to
engage in an honest assessment of the state of the city reaching/transformation
paradigm in our region. We discovered among ourselves a high degree of fatigue,
a sense of stall in our cities, and uncertainty as to where to proceed next.
Deciding that this kind of regional learning community was highly valuable, we
set December 1 & 2 for our next meeting, and targeted two topics for
presentation and interaction: 1) Releasing the fivefold ministries of Ephesians
4 in our cities, and 2) understanding and advancing a biblical ecclesiology of
the one church in the city.
On December 1 & 2, 2003, twenty two practitioners met again. In an opening
season of sharing and prayer, the Spirit led us to resolve to repent of
city-reaching endeavors of the past driven by faulty understanding and/or
fleshly efforts. We identified systemic mindsets (strongholds) that seem to
obstruct Gods purposes in our cities. But, we also shared common resolve to
boldly embrace the future with faith. Montie Ralstin brought a presentation on
the fivefold ministries. Dennis Fuqua shared on how to more effectively move
forward a functional expression of the one church in a city or region.
Summary of the key questions and issues before us:
The concept of the one church in the city is an inspiring idea, with
clear biblical foundation, but implementing this in functional reality in our
cities is most challenging. Many are still limited by the isolationist and
separatist mindsets that are congregational, theological or sociological.
Priority, time and energy limitations (mostly of pastors) also inhibit the
development of the church in the city. Generally, there are two kinds of
responses to this challenge: 1) many simply accommodate reality: Dont make this
more than what it is. Were a trusting group of leaders, building healthy
relationships, praying together, and occasionally partnering together on city
projects. Lets be happy with what weve got. 2) others keep pressing the
paradigm, wanting to take the city church to the next level. Among this more
activist group, I see at least two dangers emerging. One growing tendency is to
invest predominant energy in pragmatic servanthood, e,g., projects that bless a
city. While no-strings servanthood is commendable, it does not necessarily hold
spiritual transformation as a clear outcome. Short-term projects also have a
tendency to run out of gas over the long haul. Another activist tendency is to
turn transformation initiatives over to marketplace leaders, looking to their
competence to more effectively drive a city transformation process.
So, who really has both platform and resources to take this paradigm forward?
Who will take initiative to affirm the priesthood of all believers and the
fivefold leadership callings in the whole city context? What might Psalm 127
look like in our cities if we hear the Lord correctly and follow His initiative?
I still firmly believe that we must do a better job advancing the revelation
of the one church in the city, building this one congregation and organization
at a time, promoting increased synergy, and working harder at building a diverse
coalition of both pastoral and marketplace leadership that commonly owns the
vision for societal transformation and commits to sustainable funding, staffing
and implementation of that vision.
As I look out on the city transformation landscape, cities that seem to have
focus and move forward have the following components working for them:
1) high value on
relationships, and deepening trust over time
2) regular worship
and prayer among the spiritual leaders and their congregations
3) prophetic
vision of a preferred future (a clearly articulated vision & mission statement)
4) a source of
funding and manpower not dependent on participating church congregations
5) bold, decisive
leadership committed to implementing vision (typically with a clear point man)
6) practical ideas
that work to inspire and involve pastors and congregations (Little Rock,
Boulder)
Clear points of agreement (from the Dec. 1, 2 03 Consultation)
1) We should
continue this regional roundtable roughly every six months (Change to
every Dec?)
2) Well all
work hard at inviting two other persons from our context: A) another fellow city
team leader, and B) a person of influence from what were calling the marketplace
(government, business, education, social services, law enforcement, etc),
preferably a person of color, a woman or an emerging young leader, 23-35.
(Great idea, but it did not happen)
3) Explore
the level of interest/involvement with leaders in Vancouver, B.C. (didnt
happen)
4) Topics
for input in March:
Summarize where weve been to this point, what were hearing, what were learning
How can we more effectively prepare our colleagues & congregations for the new
ecclesiology?
Ask a marketplace influencer to bring us a challenge: What does transformation
look like to them?
How do we discern & deal with systemic, stronghold mindsets that perpetuate old
wineskins?
What should a city church leadership team look like? How might it look with all
five Eph. 4 offices functioning? What will an emerging leadership wineskin
really look like?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
In closing, Id like to offer some responses to the last two items listed above.
Discerning & Dealing with Systemic Stronghold Mindsets
n
Do accurate research that documents the roots and
manifestations of non-kingdom thinking; gain consensus among key leaders on the
accuracy of these strongholds; articulate these mindsets in writing.
n
Mobilize your intercessors & prayer warriors to
bring these stronghold mindsets to the Lord in repentance
n
Present these issues to participating spiritual
leaders, e.g., at an annual Summit, a citywide gathering, or a special Solemn
Assembly. Take initiative to repent of un-biblical thinking, and resolve to
align thoughts and energies with kingdom values.
n
Wield a prophetic sword of authority in prayer,
renouncing our own ways and wisdom, asking God to break the power of the
principalities & powers.
Pointing a Way Forward for Leadership of the City Church
n
Where pastors are predominantly or exclusively
carrying leadership, progress seems to bog down. This does not reflect
intention, but rather reality (primary focus on the congregation, insufficient
time & energy, inadequate management skills). Best progress seems to be in
cities where foundation money and manpower is available (Fresno, Pittsburgh,
Ottawa, Boulder)
n
Encourage continued synergy, i.e., each
participating congregation identifies and shares its distinctive strength with
other congregations, and the wider community.
n
Hold a series of Roundtables, initially with
marketplace influencers, men and women leaders serving in government, law
enforcement, education, business, etc., tapping into their own vision for
advancing Gods kingdom in the community. Later, expand this to a mix of pastors
and marketplace leaders. Build a diverse team of both pastoral and marketplace
leaders with a common, compelling vision for city transformation.
___________________________________________________>>>
9. CHICAGO, IL: KARITOS AND CIR
Karitos
A truly unique Worship & Arts: Conference
Workshops, Labs, Corporate Celebrations
Performers, Teachers and Conferees from across the nation and across the
spectrum!
http://www.karitos.com
Bob Hay: 847/749-1284 or bob@karitos.com
City Impact Roundtable Returns to Chicagoland
Tuesday, June 1st
City Impact Roundtable
9am 3pm
Crusaders Church West in Naperville (1805 High Point Drive (630) 577-0551)
Bring $10 to cover coffee and and lunch
The CIR format is unique:
Roundtable, prayer-based discussion, prompted by brief focused presentations
on strategic issues
Join men and women from a variety of denominations and servant ministries who
share your passion to see
The whole Church (red and yellow; black and white) display
The whole Gospel (proclamation and demonstration) to
The whole city (Chicago's neighborhoods and suburbs)
Why?
We are convinced that new relationships lead to
strategic partnerships
This is a very good way to obey Ephesians 4:3; being diligent to preserve
the unity of the Spirit
Christ will not allow a single person, congregation, denomination or
organization to saturate the city
We are tired of ineffective programs; we believe the relational process is
more effective
Who?
Who should you invite to join you at City Impact
Roundtable ... Please bring someone who shares this vision
___________________________________________________>>>
10. THE CHURCH OF GREATER ATHENS,
GA:
COP & PRESENCE-BASED CONFERENCE
>From: "Cross Over Athens" <crossoverathens@integrity.com>
>At:
http://www.crossoverathens.org
A coalition of churches, ministries, and leaders seeking community
transformation in the Athens area through the love and power of Jesus Christ!
Our next quarterly concert of prayer is Sunday evening, April 25, 2004 at
Prince Avenue Baptist Church at 5:30 p.m.
Join us for the new prayer-focused musical presentation, Somebody's Praying
Me Through, featuring the Prince Avenue choir and orchestra (hear audio
excerpt here
<http://207.65.132.3:8080/ramgen/Mountpoint1//CHB/080689382178_9.rm> ). The
prayer leader will be Joseph Slife of the Praying for Greater Athens
radio program.
Concerts of prayer -- multi-church, citywide prayer gatherings -- date from the
First Great Awakening in the 1700s. Today, the concert of prayer is in
resurgence, following a 1999 "call to prayer
<http://www.prayertransformation.com/mission_call.htm> " issued by more
than 75 denominations and hundreds of parachurch ministries. Area-wide prayer
concerts now take place quarterly in cities across the U.S. To learn more
about the history of concerts of prayer, click here
<http://216.157.50.176/coa_cop.htm> .
The 'Presence-Based Church' Conference with Dr. Terry Teykl
<http://www.ipcwr.org/speakers_teykl.htm>, a member of America's National
Prayer Committee. Saturday, May 1 at Jefferson First UMC.
Details and registration form:
http://www.maysvilleumc.com/prayer.htm
Hear an excerpt
<http://gatewayumc.org/Teykl_Perception.mp3> of Dr. Teykl teaching on
prayer.
___________________________________________________>>>
* SPECIAL OFFERS TO NPPN.ORG
You'll probably see a resource at
discount that you've not seen anywhere else!
http://www.nppn.org/offers.htm
___________________________________________________>>>
National Pastors' Prayer Network
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Register your PPG:
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___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 2004. 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
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