A call to prayer in the Western Jurisdiction

The dawn of a new day for The UMC has broken, and the entire connection is seeking to be faithful in this season of change. As such, the Executive Committee of the Western Jurisdiction Leadership Team, made up of members from the College of Bishop, Committee on Episcopacy, and the Leadership Team is calling the Western Jurisdiction into a time of prayer. We offer the following “Call to Prayer” for our communal prayer as we seek God’s guidance for the future of the Western Jurisdiction.

Gracious and Loving God,

As we stand on the threshold of a new day for our church and jurisdiction, we come before You with hearts full of hope and anticipation. Your word reminds us that “I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). We celebrate the vision for our church emerging from the postponed 2020 General Conference, trusting in Your guidance and wisdom as we embrace the changes and opportunities ahead.

We lift up to You our College of Bishops as they reflect on the decisions made at the General Conference last month. Grant them wisdom and clarity as they digest these decisions and discern the path forward for our jurisdiction. May they be instruments of Your will, leading us with grace and steadfastness.

Lord, we pray for the Interjurisdictional Committee on the Episcopacy and their conversations and decisions over the next several weeks. Fill their discussions with Your Spirit so that they may seek unity and Your divine direction in all they do. Guide those considering a transfer to the Western Jurisdiction, giving them discernment and peace as they contemplate this significant decision.

We also pray for those annual conferences that will receive new episcopal leadership this season. Whether these leaders come from another jurisdiction or from within, may they be welcomed with open hearts and minds. Bless these new leaders with the courage, vision, and compassion to shepherd their communities in Your name.

God, be near the leaders who will help the Western Jurisdiction translate the new vision of the church into reality. Empower them with Your strength and fill them with the love and mercy that define Your kindom.

As we embark on this journey together, we pray unceasingly for Your will to be revealed in the future of the episcopacy in the Western Jurisdiction. May Your light guide our steps, and may we always seek to serve You with joy and dedication, sharing your love without limits.

In the name of Jesus Christ, who makes all things new. Amen.