Throughout Church history, God’s people have gathered for corporate prayer. In fact, many of the greatest revivals started as believers joined together in community prayer meetings. In the early church, believers met often – sometimes daily – for prayer and worship. At Oasis of Healing Ministries, we believe in the potency of prayers, and as such, PrayerFest was inspired by the Holy Spirit to help teach and nurture Christians, especially children and youths about the nature, art and science of prayer.
PrayerFest is a platform for corporate prayer with the following objective:
1: Unifying the Body of Christ:
At this time in the Church’s history, it seems as though the Church is more divided than ever. As we converse with God and yield our hearts to Him, He brings our will into perfect alignment with His. As we pray together, our hearts are more deeply knit with God’s heart and with each other. We are given a glimpse of the unity we’ll enjoy in heaven. Corporate prayer connects us around a common purpose; seeking God’s heart. As we seek Him together there is solidarity. We’re not all pulling in our own direction. Our prayers become less selfish and more focused on God’s will and purpose for our lives and the lives of others. As we pray as a unified group, with one heart and one mouth, we glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in a way that is unparallel to any other method (Romans 15:6).
2: Edifying and Encouraging Participants:
When we gather together to pray and seek the heart of God, individual hearts are encouraged. Life is hard and our difficulties are many. Individuals within the group may be struggling with trials too personal to mention but as they pray in unity with other believers, their hearts are re-focused on almighty God. Their faith is strengthened by remembering His grace and goodness. The Holy Spirit brings them reassurance and comfort through the prayers of others. This is why the wise writer of Hebrews reminds us to not forsake meeting together (Hebrews 10:25). As we pray together our hearts are opened towards the needs of others. During prayer times together the Holy Spirit will often speak to a person showing them how they can specifically encourage those with needs. In this way, we live out the instructions of the Apostle Paul when he calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 1:6).
3: Discipling Believers in Prayer:
As believers gather together for prayer, those who are newbies to the faith are able to learn from those who are mature in their faith. As those who are new to the faith listen to others praying, they will learn prayer techniques such as praying Scripture, listening in silence for God’s response, interceding on behalf of others, and methods of praising and worshipping God. In essence, they will be disciplined in prayer.
Years ago, when I was being mentored, I listened to those who were mature in the faith pray and praise God. As I listened and observed, my prayer life grew and expanded. The same can happen for every young believer, as they participate in corporate prayer.