A call to prayer for the city

By: Tracy Farnham | Morganton News Herald
Published: November 20, 2009

MORGANTON --

During his daily prayer time in early September, Pastor Paul Culbertson of Calvin Heights said he felt burdened by the situation in Morganton. A conviction to pray more specifically — over the need for jobs, the school board situation and other issues — gripped his heart.
Culbertson said, "When I was praying, God put it on my heart very clear. The verse, II Chronicles 7:14 came to my mind with an overwhelming conviction to set something up and do my best to get Burke County together to pray."
Nearly 20 responses came in response to a letter, mailed out to more 200 churches, inviting their pastors to partner with Culbertson in a citywide prayer meeting.
The result is called "Prayer for the City." It will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. Saturday at Freedom High School Stadium (or in the gymnasium in the event of rain).
Pastor Kevin Purcell of High Peak Baptist said, "We have been meeting every other week and praying for this event. We (also) discuss the needs of the community and pray for those needs as well."
The time of prayer will begin with a call to worship led by Holly Alejo.
Fourteen specific prayers will begin with a prayer for repentance, Culbertson said.
"A group of multidenominational pastors came up with the topics we will pray for," he said.
Everyone will break into smaller groups to pray about specific needs. The list includes prayer for the schools, superintendent, school board, teachers and students, families, protection, employment, wisdom, local government, local law enforcement, national government, unity in the churches, local missions, churches and individuals.
"We will ask for God to provide for our families. So many people need jobs. We will ask for wisdom and for God to help us bring industry to this county," Culbertson said.
"Last, we will be praying for our cities individually and surrender them to God. This is His City," he said.
All churches and congregations are invited. This is not an event to promote any particular faith except in Jesus, Culbertson added.
Mike Chandler of Journey Church said, "I felt like this is something we desperately need in our community. The only place we can turn is to get on our knees and this is the perfect opportunity to draw folks together for that purpose."

A call to prayer for the city

Share This:

More from this channel:

Reader Comments

Deal of the Day

Most Popular

More Ways to Connect

Reader Photos» Browse More

Things to Do