Prayer for Younger Leaders Gathering 2016

For 10 days in August 2016, 1000 younger leaders from all over the world who are passionate about world evangelisation will be meeting in Indonesia under an initiative stemming from the Lausanne Movement. I have the privilege of being one of the leaders chosen from Trinidad and Tobago to represent the Caribbean region at this once-in-ten-years gathering.

During the gathering, participants will be connecting in issue-based workshops and regional groups, strategic brainstorming labs and with senior leaders. It will be a special opportunity for us to pray, worship and build relationships with peers from all over the world who have the same passion for global mission.

We have already started connecting virtually, using an online tool which was specially designed for the gathering, as well as social media such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Skype. It has been wonderful to start building friendships with persons whom I have never met in person.

The theme of this gathering is "United in the Great Story". The theme is meant to focus on God's purposes for the world and our particular mission as His church. The program elements will include morning scripture expositions, leadership panels, connect groups, issue-based groups and creative laboratories. The intention is that, after the gathering, there will emerge a generation that is united in the great story and connected for global mission. 

As part of our preparations, we have been asked to be in prayer for the gathering, and invite others to partner with us. You can join the prayer network by uniting with us in the following prayer requests:

• Pray for the participants - for the regions and nations they represent, their ministries, and that meaningful connections and friendships would be made

• Pray that as we gather from many countries, backgrounds and experiences, that we will be united as one body in Christ and in his great story of salvation

• Pray that every participant will engage sincerely with the pre-programme materials sent monthly, and that they will be helpful and meaningful. Pray for everyone's fundraising efforts, and for God to continue raising up generous and cheerful givers for the gathering and the scholarships

• Pray for a smooth registration process for all participants and finalizing of logistics and programme. Pray for the Younger Leaders Planning Team as they coordinate and plan for the YLG

• Pray for the mentors who will come to the gathering, Senior Associates who will lead workshops and for other Lausanne leaders and staff giving guidance and help with preparations

• Pray for this gathering to impact Indonesia in a special way. Pray for the churches and ministries in Jakarta working on recruiting volunteers for the gathering