Situations and approaches change but helping people read, understand and apply the Bible still lies at the heart of all we do. This is true of our published material, in print and digital forms, for individuals and groups, our holidays and missions, our work in schools and churches. The challenge is to ensure that people hear the timeless message in ways that make sense in their worlds.
Sunday 2: Focus for today and throughout the week
Many Christians have no regular pattern of Bible reading. James Burden, Publishing Team Leader, and team continue to develop ways of helping people engage with the Bible in both print and digital media. Pray that our publications will help users to meet
God through the Bible.
Monday 3
Tomorrow sees the launch of three books designed to help people with dementia – and older people struggling with memory loss – to read the Bible and pray. Creative Developer, ‘Tricia Williams gives thanks for the very positive response to the concept. Pray that these will meet a real need, and that the promotion with active support from Pam Rhodes and the Archbishop of Canterbury will ensure that they reach a wide market.
Tuesday 4
Starting today and running until Friday, the Centre for Youth Ministry students will be at the Youth Encounter Centre, Birmingham for their multi-faith module. Presenting Christian truth sensitively but clearly in our society is not easy. Pray that as they think about what the Bible says they may be inspired and given the resources to present Christ clearly in a world of many different and competing ideologies.
Wednesday 5
Since its launch over two years ago WordLive has grown steadily with over 20,000 regular users. We can give thanks for the constant stream of positive testimonies to the way in which WordLive is helping people to live by the Bible, but we also need to pray that more will discover it, and will not only benefit from using it but will also be prepared to support it financially.
Thursday 6
Although growing numbers of people are using WordLive there is still a ready demand for the printed guides. In order to keep costs as low as possible WordLive and the printed guides use the same syllabus and where possible the same comments. This presents some editorial challenges. Pray for writers and editorial staff that they may communicate clearly and effectively.
Friday 7
Tomorrow sees X:site events in Sheffield, Milton Keynes and Birmingham. They feature lively worship, creative activities, games and more reflective times with God. But at the heart is the Bible. Some of those who come will have no real experience or understanding of the Bible. Pray that whether it is part of an upfront presentation or in a small group, the Bible will come alive for all those there.
Saturday 8: International focus
SU Africa is organising a leadership summit for the National Directors and National Chairmen to be held from 18-23 May in Nairobi, Kenya. Pray that as people who come from different parts of the Africa Region they will travel safely and have a valuable time at the summit. Pray for a lasting impact in the movements of the region.