Thursday 13 May marks the beginning of Thy Kingdom Come, an annual prayer movement that unites individuals and churches from around the world in ten days of prayer.
It begins after Ascension Day, which commemorates Jesus’ return to heaven after his resurrection, and ends at Pentecost when we celebrate God’s gift of the Holy Spirit which empowers us to live the life of Jesus today. Everyone connected with the United Reformed Church is invited to join this exciting journey.
Since Thy Kingdom Come started in May 2016, Christians from 172 countries have taken part in praying “Come Holy Spirit”, so that friends and family, neighbours and colleagues might come to know the love of Jesus.
This praying together has crossed all boundaries and borders, and encourages every person, household, and church to pray in their own way.
During the 11 days of the prayer movement, it is hoped that everyone who takes part will:
- Deepen their own relationship with Jesus Christ
- Pray for five friends or family to come to faith in Jesus
- Pray for the empowerment of the Spirit that we would be effective in our witness
Revd Dr John Bradbury, URC General Secretary explains that: “In prayer, we pay attention to God as we discern God’s call for us to make a difference in the life of the world. Prayer changes us, and changes the world, and nothing could be more important than us changing to be a little more Christlike.”
Revd Clare Downing, Moderator of the URC General Assembly, adds: “Prayer is one of the ways in which we keep in step with Jesus, as we continue walking the way. I would encourage you to take part in Thy Kingdom Come as an opportunity for us all to pray with and for others around the globe.”
Francis Brienen, URC Deputy General Secretary for Mission, says: “Whether you have taken part in Thy Kingdom Come before or not, I invite you to join now. Perhaps this year more than ever, it is crucial that Christians around the globe come together to pray for the transformation of individual lives and communities, and for the renewal of the earth.”
Churches and individuals alike are encouraged to sign up to Thy Kingdom Come to receive resources and support for their prayer journey. You can find out more by visiting the Thy Kingdom Come website.
