Blood line

This can be applied to any person or ministry. Today are bishop elections in Central Florida and New York. Also, remember South Carolina, whose bishop has deposition charges filed against him.

Exodus 12:13 (KJV)
And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Joshua 2:12, 13, 17, 18 (KJV)
Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token: And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. . . . And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear. Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee.

God of our Lord Jesus Christ, Father of glory,

I thank You for Your great plan of redemption and for the Blood of the Lamb that washed me clean from my sins. Thank You for the delight in drawing near and knowing You. May I ever continue in Your presence that my spiritual understanding may open and unfold and that I will not fail to recognize the hope of Your calling, the riches of Your inheritance, and the greatness of Your power.
You raised Christ Jesus from the dead and set him at Your right hand in heaven, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, in every dimension and throughout time. You have put all things under his feet and made Him the head of the church.
God, You have quickened me, as a member of the church, together with Christ. In Christ Jesus, I have been raised and sit in heavenly places.

Satan, you are a defeated foe. By faith, Moses kept the passover and the sprinkling of the blood. By faith, Rahab delivered the spies and redeemed her family by the scarlet cord. By faith, I claim the Blood of the Lamb over the doorposts and lintels, the windows in the wall, and every spiritual portal of ______.

The Blood of the Lamb says to the angel of death, You must pass over. The Blood of Jesus, our Mediator of a new covenant, speaks a better, nobler, and more gracious message than the blood of Abel, Mercy, not vengeance.

Speak, O precious Blood, speak. Speak the way, the truth, and the life for _______. Speak that they may receive God’s kingdom, a kingdom that is firm and stable and cannot be shaken.

Father, Your kingdom come, Your will be done in ______ today, as it is in heaven. Amen.
Ephesians 1 & 2, Hebrews 11 & 12

Revelation 22:17 and Isaiah 55:1-3

And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” (Revelation 22:17a)
      Holy Spirit, help us heed your bidding and come. Help your bride, the Church, to say, “Come!”

And let him who hears say, “Come!” (Revelation 22:17b)
      Father, give us ears to hear and hearts to share your bidding call and tell others to come.

And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. (Revelation 22:17c)
      Jesus, I thirst and I come to your living waters. I have no money, but I come to buy and eat what you freely offer. I come for your new wine and milk without money and without price. Thank you. (See Isaiah 55:1)

      Holy Spirit, help me repent of spending my money or what is not bread and my wages for what does not satisfy. Help me to listen to you carefully and eat what is good, and let my soul delight itself in your abundance. Thank you. (See Isaiah 55:2)

      Father, I turn my ear to you and come. Help me daily listen and hear so that my soul shall live and I will enter into your everlasting covenant and your sure and certain mercies. Thank you. (See Isaiah 55:3)

A word received: Pray for the poor and those in need of my help in this land.

Please pray for the prayer table ministry.

Saturday: 107:33-43, 108:1-6(7-13) * 33; Isaiah 65:17-25 Revelation 22:14-21 Matthew 18:21-35
Sunday: 118 * 145; Isaiah 19:19-25 Romans 15:5-13 Luke 19:11-27
HC: 95:1-7; Ezekiel 34:11-17; 1 Corinthians 15:20-28; Matthew 25:31-46

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Fri, 18 Nov 2011
From: Ginnie Grupinski
Subject: Lima
      Bishop Mike Chapman is in Lima tonight. Tomorrow he will be ordaining 3 deacons: Dimas, Marco, and Zoila.Please pray for these three in particular and the rest of those taking part, that the anointing of the Lord might fall like rain in the Cathedral. Please pray for a mighty move of the Spirit in these proceedings and a wave of revival to come to Lima and all of Peru! Ask that signs and wonders would follow the preaching and ordination of these men and that God would be glorified in everything.The ordination will take place in the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd in Mira Flores, Lima, Peru at 5 in the afternoon. Thank you so much !
Blessings and Peace, Ginnie

Albany Intercessor

Georgia–Francis Sayre

The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre Jr. (1915 — 2008) was Dean of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for 27 years.

Cherish, Lord, the hardy spirit of Thy servants whose lives are rooted in the tawny earth of Georgia. Nurture in them the precious fibre of freedom wrested by their fathers from the upland clearings and workworn fields. Visit now upon the sons, in their towns and cities and burgeoning affairs, such fresh vision of Thy destiny that they may ever be knit together in fruitful life and liberty, planting deep the seed of courage by their abounding streams, and winning Thy blessing upon the goodly land; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hat tip: The Anglican Digest

Lyman Hall

Georgia governor and signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Lyman Hall’s epitaph reads as follows:

“Beneath this stone rest the remains of the Hon. Lyman Hall, Formerly Governor of this State, who departed this life the 19th of Oct., 1790, in the 67th year of his age.”
”In the cause of America he was uniformly a patriot. In the incumbent duties of a husband and a father he acquitted himself with affection and tenderness. But, reader, above all, know from this inscription that he left the probationary scene as a true Christian and an honest man.”

Matthew 18:10-14, 19-20 and Sunday School Lesson

“Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10)
      Father, give us a heart to reach out with love to your little ones and to the lost and the least. I cry out to you for the children of Schenectady — those growing up in families with addiction or violence or want. Have mercy on them. Guide us by your Holy Spirit when we talk with them and pray with them.

“For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” (Matthew 18:11)
      Jesus, help me daily share the gospel of salvation with your people.

            Praying the Apostles’ Creed
And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty;
      As with the dying thief on the cross, we too say, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42)

“What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” (Matthew 18:12-14)
      Holy Spirit, raise up true shepherds throughout this diocese who will go out looking for the lost sheep. They are all around us — help us to see them and help bring them into the flock. Thank you.

“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:19-20)
      Jesus, thank you for being with those who minister at the various prayer tables around the diocese.

STUDY GUIDE: SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON 10, November 20, 2011
Theme Verse: 19Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Readings: Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Corinthians 15:20-28; Ezekiel 34:11-17; Psalm 95:1-7

      Gospel: Matthew 25:31-46

A word received: There is judgment coming. I will test what you have done and not done. I want my people to take the General Confession seriously. If there is no repentance, there is a block to my grace.

“we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.”

      Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:20-28

(verse 22) A word received: I want you to find your life in me.

      Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11-17

(verse 16) A word received: I will gather up the fragments of your lives just as I had my disciples gather up the fragments of bread at the feeding of the 5,000.

      Psalm: Psalm 95:1-7

(verse 7) A word received: I want you to know me as your shepherd.

A word received: In his hand. [Both the great and the small] What is the character of the Shepherd? God doesn’t excuse sin, but he forgives sin. Prayer: Lord, help us to be under faithful shepherds.

The high mountains are for the wild goats (Psalm 104:18 ). We look at the mountains and are impressed by them and see them as important. From God’s perspective they are a playground for the goats.

Friday: 102 * 107:1-32; Malachi 3:1-12 Revelation 22:6-13 Matthew 18:10-20
Saturday: 107:33-43, 108:1-6(7-13) * 33; Isaiah 65:17-25 Revelation 22:14-21 Matthew 18:21-35

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Thu, 17 Nov 2011
From: Susan Plaske
Subject: Cathedral of All Saints Prayer Table Report, 11/16/11 Wed 12 Noon – 1PM Beth Collum, Hilda Hardy, Linda Davis, Deacon Sue and Thor the dog
Dave (Trinity) – Giving thanks for warm weather
Connie and Sharon – for Tereka for recovery from cancer and for Blessing and continued grace and peace for Jim
Sue – Kristen recovering from breast cancer, relief from residual pain
      Kim help and provision, the Lord’s guidance
      Felecia relief of Back pain
      Barb and Wendy God’s presence in their lives
+Angela – Reconciliation, Health and Provision
Jim – Healing, grace, peace and blessing
+Anthony – Needs an apartment and a good job. provision
David – for relief of back pain
Laura – dizziness, healing of infection, relationship with her mother, Christian friends for her and Dan
David – for relief of back pain and healing
Amy – provision and coming back to Jesus
Invitation to anyone who has a calling to pray with people or support this ministry please contact Deacon Sue and we will help you to find your place in the ministry.

***** Date: Thu, 17 Nov 2011
From: Donna Steckline
Subject: update
      Praise the Lord!! Kevin and Patti have arrived in Entebbe, Uganda and are there for the night. They acquired flights out for tomorrow evening, so will arrive in Newark around 1:30 pm on Sat.
      Kev said Patti is doing somewhat better and probably got Giarrdia (sp?) which he has been treating her for and she is getting better. She just doesn’t feel like traveling. Praise God they are safely on their way. They will still need to coordinate getting a different flight or route home for Patti from Newark, but we’ll figure that out easily.
      Thank you sooooo much for your prayers!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow! FHS, Donna+

***** Prayer requests from Willowfield parish in Belfast, Northern Ireland:
Date: Thu, 17 Nov 2011
From: Ronnie O’Neill
Subject: Fw: Cambodia update 3 and 4
      From the Faithful husband Mark: Please continue to Pray for Liz and Susan until they are back with us at Willowfield
Thanx Ronnie’O
Hi all,
Updates 3 and 4:
“Beauty for Ashes
      Today was the day I was so very much looking forward to since this trip became a reality. It is the day we spent with our partners from Hagar – an organisation who, to quote the words of staff, deal with the things in the too difficult basket. That resonates with everything I am and everything we strive to be as an organisation. When this journey began just over 3 years ago I was warned to stay away from working with sexually exploited in Cambodia as ‘it is too difficult and too dangerous’. How far away from the truth can that be. Is it difficult? Yes. Is it dangerous? Sometimes yes. Is it impossible – with God absolutely not. In him can be found all hope and through him full restoration can be found and through him all things are possible..
      After a day out we freshened up before a tuk tuk drive through a totally gridlocked Phnom Penh to the mall and Lucky Burger. I would like to describe this as rush hour though we were rushing nowhere!! I was so excited for this moment. Here we met up with some Hagar staff and 10 girls from 2 foster care homes funded by Ratanak International – 1 from the UK and 1 from Canada. We sat amongst the girls and chatted about family and what brought us to Cambodia like old friends as we shared a meal together. These kids have suffered abuse on a scale that a normal human being cannot and should not be able to conceive. That humanity would stoop so low to exploit a child to such an extent is beyond my levels of comprehension.
      After eating it is time for gifts with Liz and Susan handing out bracelets, toiletries and hair bands. Girls chatter comparing their new gifts with beaming faces. I reached into a bag I brought over and took out a bunch of Ratanak teddy bears. The gasp is audible and as each bear is received it is hugged and held onto tightly before being decorated with the bands and bracelets then hugged a little more. A little 8 year old girl then leans over and asks my name before naming her teddy after me. After ice cream and more conversation it is time to say farewell and head off. At the bottom of a set of steps the same 8 year old wanders over and asks her mentor how to say some words to me in English. I kneel on the pavement as she look into my eyes and says, ‘Thank you, I will never forget you’.
      Tonight, once again, my heart aches but this time it is with the joy of seeing young lives rescued and restored. I am now beginning to understand with a little more clarity what it means to be in awe of God as I witness his hand at work in the lives of these children. Moreover, I appreciate more fully that we serve a mighty, mighty God who is able to do everything we can ask or imagine – and often more than we dare imagine.
      Please pray for the Hagar staff who work with these and many more children and who listen to the terrible stories many times. Pray for strength and wisdom for them and that they will experience more of God at work through them. Pray also for the team of Liz, Susan, Tim & Debs from the UK, Brian & Melissa from Canada, Brian & Jason from Australia and Lisa who now lives here together with all those around the world that volunteer their help with us. Thank you.”

“An Extravagant God
      After a hectic week it has been great today to have a slightly more relaxing day allowing the team time to reflect and catch up a little. This morning we headed off to Bloom Vocational Training Centre and Café to meet with Ruth, Murray & Tanya from Australia. Carrying the strap line ‘Too beautiful to eat too delicious to resist’ Bloom rightly describes itself as an oasis in the middle of Phnom Penh. Here 32 girls take lessons and have qualified in a variety of hospitality and catering subjects – including cake making and decorating. The cakes meet the description and are totally breath taking –tasting pretty good too! The final pieces made for the exams are on display and are extravagant in their design together with a cabinet of simply amazing cupcakes. These cakes are sold to a largely local clientele and through the café for a variety of occasions and have attracted media coverage around the globe.
      The centre has only been operating since January 2010 and has clients from the Prime Minister down. Capable of making and decorating cakes of up to 7 tiers this centre is a hive of industry. As you know Tim & Debs are here as part of their honeymoon and to celebrate their marriage we had a cake made!
      As I have thought more on the day and the opulence of these cakes I reflected on the character of God. The exceeding abundance with which he loves us, cares for us and desires to live our lives to the fullest measure are reflected in the magnificent creations which exceed anything you could imagine. We should be eternally thankful that we serve a God who wants to bless us to excess and lavish himself on us for no other reason than he can do it.
      Tomorrow we head to Daughters and the visitor centre which was the first project we funded from the UK. It’s likely to be more cake I’m afraid…!”
Cheers and God bless…

Albany Intercessor

Connecticut–Francis Sayre

The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre Jr. (1915 — 2008) was Dean of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for 27 years.

Have in Thy keeping, O God, the strong hills and homely rocks of Connecticut, and the undaunted folk who live among them. As by the land, so by grace and labor did Thy servants clear it, meting the bounds with boulders, and measuring themselves against the stern beauty of Thy handiwork. Thus moulded to Thy majesty, may Thy people ever rejoice in the bounty of their valleys, the refreshment of the sea, and Thy changing glory at each season of the year. Bless their town and government; bless their commerce; bless their rest; that in their turn they may endow their progeny with that hard and humble hope which is ever learned of Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hat tip: The Anglican Digest

Proclamation by Governor Jonathan Trumbull

From WallBuilders:

Jonathan Trumbull (1740-1809) issued this proclamation as Governor of Connecticut in 1807.

WHEN we seriously consider the Being and Perfections of God, with our relation to and dependence on Him, as our Great Creator, Preserver and Benefactor;-and when we reflect on the Evil of our Ways, and the folly of our Conduct towards the Author of our Being and of all our Mercies,-we should be humbled in the Dust before our God, for our sinful Ingratitude and unworthiness:-We have reason to cry out with the humble Publican, “God be merciful to us Sinners.”

And while performing the Duties of Repentance for past Offences, and forming devout resolutions for future Lives of Obedience, let us offer to our Almighty and all-gracious God, through our Great Mediator, our sincere and solemn Prayers for his Divine Assistance and the Influences of His Holy Spirit; that God may freely pardon all our Sins and strengthen our resolutions of future Obedience; that He will give us an Interest in the Covenant of Mercy through our Divine Redeemer; and that in addition to these unspeakable Blessings of His Grace, our God will mercifully grant us all those temporal Favors which he may see convenient and best for us. -And let us particularly and devoutly supplicate the Divine Favor and Influence on our public and private Interests: that God will be pleased to bless and guide the President of the United States in all his important duties; that our God will mercifully preside over all our national and state Councils at this critical and eventful period: that our public Rulers may be enlightened in and led to a just discernment and ardent pursuit of the public Interest, as relates to our internal concerns and external relations: that God will mercifully preserve our country from internal Confusion and civil Discord, and from external insult and aggression. -Also let us humbly entreat, That our God will bless us in the fruitfulness of the coming season: give us a continuance of Health in our Cities and in our Dwellings: succeed the Labors of the Husbandman: prosper our Commerce, Navigation and Fisheries: enlarge our Manufactures, and give success to our various lawful arts and industrious enterprise: smile on all our means of Learning and Science: bless and succeed a preached Gospel, and animate all its Ministers with the true spirit of their undertaking, and encourage their Hearts by a happy experience of their successful Labors: pray God to give Peace to contending Nations: cause that the peaceful Kingdom of Righteousness may be advanced in the World; and that the Gospel of our Lord and Savior may be extended throughout all the habitations of men.

Oliver Wolcott

Oliver Wolcott (1726 – 1797) was a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence and also the Articles of Confederation as a representative of Connecticut.

Through various scenes of life, God has sustained me. May He ever be my unfailing friend; may His love cherish my soul; may my heart with gratitude acknowledge His goodness; and may my desires be to Him and to the remembrance of His name….May we then turn our eyes to the bright objects above, and may God give us strength to travel the upward road. May the Divine Redeemer conduct us to that seat of bliss which He himself has prepared for His friends; at the approach of which every sorrow shall vanish from the human heart and endless scenes of glory open upon the enraptured eye. There our love to God and each other will grow stronger, and our pleasures never be dampened by the fear of future separation. How indifferent will it then be to us whether we obtained felicity by travailing the thorny or the agreeable paths of life – whether we arrived at our rest by passing through the envied and unfragrant road of greatness or sustained hardship and unmerited reproach in our journey. God’s Providence and support through the perilous perplexing labyrinths of human life will then forever excite our astonishment and love. May a happiness be granted to those I most tenderly love, which shall continue and increase through an endless existence. Your cares and burdens must be many and great, but put your trust in that God Who has hitherto supported you and me; He will not fail to take care of those who put their trust in Him….It is most evident that this land is under the protection of the Almighty, and that we shall be saved not by our wisdom nor by our might, but by the Lord of Host Who is wonderful in counsel and Almighty in all His operations.

Revelation 22:1-5

And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Revelation 22:1)
      Holy Spirit, let that river of life flow through me.

In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. (Revelation 22:2)
      Father, please help me to bear and yield up to you the fruit of my life and of your Holy Spirit. Plant that tree with leaves for healing in every parish of this diocese.

And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. (Revelation 22:3)
      Jesus, bless all those who have entered into your service. Bless the diocesan staff as they prepare for the 2012 Diocesan Convention. Help all of us enter into your service there.

They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. (Revelation 22:4)
      Jesus, please write your name and your word on my heart now.

There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. (Revelation 22:5)
      Jesus, thank you for being our light in this time of darkness in the church and in the nation.

A word received: Keep seeking me. Keep seeking my word.

Thursday: 105:1-22 * 105:23-45; Malachi 2:1-16 Revelation 21:22-22:5 Matthew 18:1-9
Friday: 102 * 107:1-32; Malachi 3:1-12 Revelation 22:6-13 Matthew 18:10-20

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Prayer requests from Willowfield parish in Belfast, Northern Ireland:
Date: Wed, 16 Nov 2011
From: Ronnie O’Neill
Subject: Update from Susan in Cambodia
      For those of you not on Facebook this in from Susan in Cambodia Please remember them everyday in Prayer!
Ronnie’O
      Yo yo yo! so wanted to ask for some prayer requests. During my time here ive seen the bad, the ugly but also the good, and I put that last because you can really see God moving in the dark places and there is hope.
      I’ve met some amazing people That God has called to work here. You can see it and hear the passion in their voice as they talk about the people here. I’ve been challenge by their humility and their servant heart. Here are some of the names of people who are really sticking their neck out for God. Helen, Bridget and don, su

Date: Wed, 16 Nov 2011
From: Ronnie O’Neill
Subject: Liz on facebook from Cambodia
      Again for those who have a life, “I mean don’t have facebook” Liz posted this on monday worth reading!
Ronnie’O
      Hello from a very warm sunny Cambodia. We are ok and God is blessing us in so many ways. Kids club today was amazing. The children were so glad to see us and had lots of questions and hugs. Tomorrow is another busy day. Thanks for all your prayers. We have seen Satan’s liar he has reigned here for far to long. I am glad to say he is losing his grip on it. God will take this land back and I look forward to that day. Keep praying for the people of Cambodia.

Albany Intercessor

Massachusetts–Francis Sayre

The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre Jr. (1915 — 2008) was Dean of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for 27 years.

Bless, O Lord, the fish in the sea, emblems of Thine own Son, and like Him given for the sustenance of life. Bless the crook of sandy cape curving out upon that sea to fold in safety the Pilgrims who crossed the deep for Thy salvation.

Bless the harbors and hills to which they came, who fled starvation or oppression or a mean spirt. Bless, O Heavenly Father, the goodly land that was their refuge; the farms and schools and lofty ships builded there, and the golden dome presiding over the brave heritage of patriot fathers.

Bless the Commonwealth thus established, that her people, daring ever to venture in Thy Name, may not fail to reach the haven of Thy mercy and be renewed in the quest of life; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

Hat tip: The Anglican Digest

Proclamation by President John Adams

John Adams (1735-1826), second President of the United States, resided in New York.

AS the safety and prosperity of nations ultimately and essentially depend on the protection and blessing of Almighty God; and the national acknowledgment of this truth is not only an indispensable duty which the people owe to Him,

but a duty whose natural influence is favorable to the promotion of that morality and piety, without which social happiness cannot exist, nor the blessings of a free government be enjoyed; and as this duty, at all times incumbent, is so especially in seasons of difficulty and of danger, when existing or threatening calamities, the just judgments of God against prevalent iniquity are a loud call to repentance and reformation; and as the United States of America are at present placed in a hazardous and afflictive situation, by the unfriendly disposition, conduct and demands of a foreign power, evinced by repeated refusals to receive our messengers of reconciliation and peace, by depredations on our commerce, and the infliction of injuries on very many of our fellow citizens, while engaged in their lawful business on the seas: —Under these considerations it has appeared to me that the duty of imploring the mercy and benediction of Heaven on our country, demands at this time a special attention from its inhabitants.

I HAVE therefore thought it fit to recommend, that Wednesday, the 9th day of May next be observed throughout the United States, as a day of Solemn Humiliation, Fasting and Prayer; That the citizens of these states, abstaining on that day from their customary worldly occupations, offer their devout addresses to the Father of Mercies, agreeably to those forms or methods which they have severally adopted as the most suitable and becoming: That all religious congregations do, with the deepest humility, acknowledge before GOD the manifold sins and transgressions with which we are justly chargeable as individuals and as a nation; beseeching him, at the same time, of his infinite Grace, through the Redeemer of the world, freely to remit all our offences, and to incline us, by his holy spirit, to that sincere repentance and reformation which may afford us reason to hope for his inestimable favor and heavenly benediction; That it be made the subject of particular and earnest supplication, that our country may be protected from all the dangers which threaten it; that our civil and religious privileges may be preserved inviolate, and perpetuated to the latest generations; that our public councils and magistrates may be especially enlightened and directed at this critical period; that the American people may be united in those bonds of amity and mutual confidence, and inspired with that vigor and fortitude by which they have in times past been so highly distinguished, and by which they have obtained such invaluable advantages: That the health of the inhabitants of our land may be preserved, and their agriculture, commerce, fisheries, arts and manufactures be blessed and prospered: That the principles of genuine piety and sound morality may influence the minds and govern the lives of every description of our citizens; and that the blessings of peace, freedom, and pure religion, may be speedily extended to all the nations of the earth.

And finally I recommend, that on the said day; the duties of humiliation and prayer be accompanied by fervent Thanksgiving to the bestower of every good gift, not only for having hitherto protected and preserved the people of these United States in the independent enjoyment of their religious and civil freedom, but also for having prospered them in a wonderful progress of population, and for conferring on them many and great favours conducive to the happiness and prosperity of a nation.

Given under my hand and seal of the United States of America, at Philadelphia, this twenty-third day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety-eight, and of the Independence of the said States the twenty-second.

JOHN ADAMS

Malachi 1:1 and Exodus 17:8-13

The burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi. (Malachi 1:1)
      Father, you have given that burden to your servants
            Bill Love
            Dan Herzog
            David Ball
            David Bena
            Harold Miller
            Mike Chapman
            Mark Lawrence
            And others.
      Help them each day by your Holy Spirit. Give them enduring strength to carry this burden.

Now Amalek came and fought with Israel in Rephidim. And Moses said to Joshua, “Choose us some men and go out, fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in my hand.” So Joshua did as Moses said to him, and fought with Amalek. And Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. And so it was, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands became heavy; so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. So Joshua defeated Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. (Exodus 17:8-13)
      Jesus, raise up “Aaron and Hurs” to hold up te hands of these bishops so that your faithful people will prevail in the battle with those who fight against the people of God. Thank you.

A word received: Hear me. Listen to me.

Wednesday: 101, 109:1-4(5-19)20-30 * 119:121-144; Malachi 1:1,6-14 Revelation 21:9-21 Matthew 17:22-27
Thursday: 105:1-22 * 105:23-45; Malachi 2:1-16 Revelation 21:22-22:5 Matthew 18:1-9

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2011
From: Donna Steckline
Subject: updates
      Please pray for health and well being of our South Sudan team and also for details related to their travels. Thank you! FHS, D

***** Prayer requests from Willowfield parish in Belfast, Northern Ireland:

Craig and Liz Featherstonhaugh ministering at Willowfield Parish in Belfast. Craig lived with us during the summer of 2010. A report by Liz, his mom, is below:
Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2011
From: Ronnie’O
Subject: Fw: Cambodia
      This in from Mark Featherstonhaugh; As most of you know Liz and Susan are in Cambodia on a two week mission and this is an update on some of the things they are involved with and there is quite a bit of detail as it came to me in two emails so please take the time to read through all of this; One thing if you are unable to read detail of abuse of children PLEASE DELETE and email me and i will send you an edited update
      Many on the prayer chain will have seen these from Steve in Cambodia, if so appologies for sending them again. Please pray for all of the team in Cambodia:
      ”A Weekend in Siem Reap
      The two days spent in Siem Reap have produced so many memories and encounters. From the official dedication on the library through the majesty of Angkor Wat to a final farewell to children and university students working tirelessly to effect change not only on their own lives but also on their communities.
      The opening ceremony was attended by nearly 300 people from all walks of life including Government officials, the Chief of Police, community elders and the children. To have a celebration with such an overtly Christian content amongst such dignitaries is in itself unusual. Here I was able to present the Chief of Police with a speed radar which was kindly donated for me to bring over. What followed was a radio call and an impromptu training session to around 15 members of the local force! We all stood in the middle of a dirt track whilst they took it in turns to ride up and down so each could observe and learn. The hope is that with some official endorsement lives will be saved on the surrounding roads.
      The community library project provides opportunities for up to 10,000 children in the catchment area to access the internet and use the library and sports facilities. This is the only internet anywhere in this area and for the first time children are able to experience the wider world. They work tirelessly to perfect their reading and computer skills as well as enjoying the recreational facilities. These children live in some of the poorest situations imaginable so readily grasp these opportunities to change their situations.
       I also had the privilege to meet the two young men who we are sponsoring through university as they sat and shared devotions and a personal time of worship. Both are doing well in their first term.
      Today we visited Angkor Wat, a world heritage site and location of some 1200 year old temples. As I looked at these vast monuments with their intricate carvings all I could ponder was how much time and energy was put into building these over centuries. Then I reflected on how much time I sometimes put in to my relationship with God and stood ashamed.
      Now we are back in Phnom Penh and the tougher second week begins with a visit to S21 – a prison during the Khmer Rouge reign where between 14 and 22,000 people were ritually tortured. It is then on to Cheoung Ek – the killing where each of these individuals were executed including children and babies. To see this is to begin to understand the tragedy experienced by the majority of the populous.
      The team are doing great and this evening we have been joined by Jason from Australia who has fitted right in. Thank you again for your messages of support and ongoing prayers.”
      ”Hope Where There Is No Hope
      Today has been a long day. We set out this morning for a visit to Tuol Sleng Museum in the heart of Phnom Penh. This former secondary school was turned into a prison of torture during the Khmer Rouge campaign between 1975-79. Between 14 and 22,000 people of all ages were systematically and brutally tortured to admit crimes against the revolution they had not committed. Each victim was meticulously photographed before being subjected to unimaginable horror. As I walked around I read of the Buddhist belief that unless a person receives a proper burial then they will wander around as ghosts and not find rest. This is a huge issue in this nation and, given that over 2.5 million people died at the hands of this regime, it is understandable why the faces of many are downcast for their relatives who they believe are still in this place.
      From Tuol Sleng we took a 15km tuk tuk ride to Cheoung Ek – a genocide memorial and the final resting place for the thousands of tortured victims. Walking around this is a peaceful environment with large colourful swallowtail butterflies and dragon flies in an assortment of colours. And yet – only a few short years ago, while I was a happy 11 year old, thousands of people met their end with the cruel blow of a bamboo pole to the skull and babies were smashed against a tree which still bears the marks. Along the walkway bones and teeth are visible as the earth gives up the dead after the rains. To imagine this place back then is beyond imagination. It is a necessary experience and yet an unpleasant one. I have walked this path before 2 years ago and was saddened the – today I am broken.
      I thank my Lord tonight for the stability of the nation in which I reside.
      Tomorrow we will be visiting NewSong and Svey Pak. In the afternoon we will be at the kids club where we will join 350 children – many of whom are being subjected to sexual assault as I type. We will also visit The Sanctuary and Rahab’s house and see that there is hope even in this darkest of places. A hope that Christ only can bring.”
      God bless, Mark…
Hi all,
Another update just in and a prayer request:
      ”Light in the Darkness
      Today we headed over to NewSong to meet with Bridget. Living here are 54 girls between 5 and 20, all who have been subjected to some of the most unimaginable abuse. It is so hard to create a picture of this place for you. The surroundings are beautiful and the staff are beyond words. Their love for these children is so clear and that is reciprocated by the kids. Here children recover something of their lost lives. It is an incredible experience and blessing to come here and meet children who arrived with the belief that they were worthless, dirty and unlovable. This could be no further from the truth and through the patient work and testimony of the staff lives are being changed. These kids have come to know the love of Christ who died for them and loves unreservedly and without condition. One little girl aged somewhere around 14 was never far away – she now suffers from minor brain damage following the amount of drugs forced into her in the brothels.
      Then we were treated to lunch with the girls – green Thai curry! To sit amongst these kids, many of whom have been the victims of white western men, is an honour again I can barely describe.
      After lunch we take another long tuk tuk drive to visit The Sanctuary, Rahab’s House and The Lords Gym. As we arrived a bus full of very young children pulled up who were brought in from the brick kilns where their families are held in bonded labour. The last time I was here The Sanctuary was an aspiration and a wreck. Today it resonates to the sound of children at the kids club singing songs to Jesus and being allowed the luxury of being children for 2 hours of the day. Many of these kids will leave here and be sold tonight to satisfy the cravings of the men who prey on them. Bridget commented, “We live at the gates of hell – but there is a lot of hope here.” It cannot be put more succinctly than that. In the midst of a tangible darkness the light of Christ burns with a fierce intensity. This community is being turned around one life at a time.
      As we wander through the buildings I meet with girls making bracelets. I ask for one with my wife’s name on and am told it will take around 30 minutes. True to form the bracelet is delivered by a lovely girl who says a few words and leaves. I then find out that she has hardly spoken a word since her rescue several years ago – so deep is the trauma locked inside.
      Don & Bridget are an incredible couple who acted in response to a need. Described so aptly today as Nike Christianity – they just did it. No qualifications or experience in this area – just a heart for children in a land far from home who needed help. Pray for them and the staff who they work so closely with. Pray for safety in a hostile environment, for provision to do more and for wisdom to act in the right way at the right time. Pray for these children and for their protection and for this community that it will turn to Jesus and away from the trade it is world renowned for.”
      ”Must go to bed as it’s 12! Just a quick request – please can you pray for an
      issue that has arisen today. We have a strong chance of buying a piece of
      land at the rear of the sanctuary for a very good price. Decisions will be
      made in a few days and it is likely to progress quickly. There is another
      very interested party but we have the first option. This would be an
      incredible opportunity to expand this work – in fact it’s the only free land
      in the area and is about half an acre.
      Presently is a sewerage dump and moves up and down when you walk on it!!
      Please pray for clarity as we work through this while here and wisdom to act
      in a timely and appropriate manner.
      Thank you – apologies for filling your inbox but this was too important to
      miss!!”
      Thank you all for your prayers, please pray particularly for the team as this week is the most challenging time for them.
Cheers and God bless, Mark…

Albany Intercessor

Maryland–Francis Sayre

The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre Jr. (1915 — 2008) was Dean of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for 27 years.
The first settlers to arrive on the coast of Maryland crossed the sea in two little vessels named Ark and Dove.

Blow, Lord, Thy clean winds upon the shores and shoals of Maryland. Blow gentle breeze of blessing across the earth, atop her stalwart hill, and over the greening fields. Blow, Holy Spirit, the freshness of liberty through the hearts of Thy people whose domain named for a queen, yet worships the King who is the Father of us all.

So may Thy children catch upon their hopes the breath of glory which Thou doth send to fill the spangled sky, the lofty sails of ships, and faithful lives of men.

Fulfill then, O God, the promise once borne upon the wings of a dove of a land of peace and companionship, and courage enough ever to follow after Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hat tip: The Anglican Digest

Charles Carroll

Charles Carroll was a leader of the American Revolution and the only Roman Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence. He helped to draft the Maryland Constitution, was a member of the Committee of Correspondence, and eventually became a United States Senator, where he helped to establish the Bill of Rights.

He attended the Jesuits’ College at St. Omar, France, and then a seminary in Rheims.

In a letter dated November 4, 1800, Carroll wrote:

“Without morals a republic cannot subsist any length of time; they therefore who are decrying the Christian religion, whose morality is so sublime & pure, [and] which denounces against the wicked eternal misery, and [which] insured to the good eternal happiness, are undermining the solid foundation of morals, the best security for the duration of free governments.”

Diocese of Central Florida Bishop Election

Busyness has kept me [Karen] from blogging much in the past 2-3 weeks, but I’ve been very conscious that the Diocese of Central Florida’s bishop election is coming up this Saturday, and I would urge our readers to be praying DAILY for that election.

Here’s how a commenter at StandFirm (who is in the diocese of CFL) requested we pray:

Please pray for spiritual protection for the special convention and that we will hear God’s voice individually and collectively.

I hope to be posting prayers & scriptures daily throughout the rest of this week. -Karen

The Diocese of Central Florida’s Bishop Search page with all the candidate information is here.