Pray for Mozambique on Sunday, June 5, 2011

Prayers for Mozambique: John 17:1-11

Despite the distance, languages, cultures, and experiences that could separate us, we give you thanks, O God, that we are all one in you. And in that oneness, today we celebrate and lift up our brothers and sisters of Mozambique. This country has been ravaged by war, poverty, floods, HIV, and malaria. However, it is also a country that is filled with beauty, hope, strength and love. We pray today for our partners here that you would empower and strengthen each one to bring about your Kingdom here on earth. We pray for the UCCSA, who is very busy preparing the way to host the UCSSA Assembly in September 2011. We also pray for Ricatla United Theological Seminary as they guide and teach the future spiritual leaders of Mozambique.   God, may you teach us to be family, to truly be one in you…to give, to love and to be a brother or sister to those who are in need. God Bless Africa; guard our children, guide our leaders and give us peace. Amen. 

Mission Moment from Mozambique

Music is one of the highlights in the worship services of the UCCSA churches.  Before the scripture or sermon, each group in the church are invited forward to “give a song.” So every Sunday the mothers, fathers, youth, children and even some solos are presented. This is really worship – because even when we do not understand the language, we feel the spirit moving! After all of the music has been presented, it is time for the offering and the worship becomes even more spirited! The songs become just a bit louder, and everyone lines up and dances forward to present their offering on the table.  Everyone is proud to bring what they have, a coin or maybe two. There are usually no bills in the baskets, but the worship is spirit lead and spirit filled. We are so proud to be a part of this church and to learn what it means to give with an open, spirit filled heart! 

(Prayer and mission moment by Dawn and Jon Barnes)

Video Resource

Interview with Dawn and Jon Barnes

Global Ministries International Partners in Mozambique

• Christian Council of Mozambique: Christian Council of Mozambique is a Church based organization formed in 1948 by the main line churches like the Methodist, Anglicans and Presbyterians. Presently it constituted 22 different denominations both main line as well as small denominations including two Associations (The Bible Society and the Scripture Union). CCM works countrywide with offices in each province and in some districts, administrative posts and localities.

• Mozambique Synod – United Congregational Church of Southern Africa:  The Mozambique Synod is one of five synods comprising the United Congregational church in Southern Africa.  Its office is located in Maputo.  The synod is engaged in ministry in various districts throughout the country.  In recent years, the country has suffered from many natural disasters and the synod has been in the forefront trying to alleviate some of the suffering.  It has constructed new homes for the homeless and cared for hundreds of children.

• Ricatla United Seminary: The United Seminary of Ricatla is an ecumenical theological institution in Maputo. It was founded in 1958 by a group of Protestant churches committed to creating a school where ministers can receive cross denominational training in an ecumenical setting.  The United Seminary of Ricatla has since graduated hundreds of ministers, both male and female, who have gone on to work in a variety of churches throughout the country. The ecumenical mission of the United Seminary of Ricatla is demonstrated in its practice of requiring students to complete their practical training in three denominations besides their own.  The Seminary also offers exchange programs and accepts students from outside Mozambique.  In addition to being respected for its theological training, the Seminary is well respected for the leadership and spirit of unity and understanding its graduates provide both among churches and in the communities in Mozambique.

• United Church of Christ in Mozambique:  The UCC in Mozambique was founded in 1905. It is made up of 56 congregations with 20 ordained ministers. It has around 10,000 members.

More info on Mozambique: http://globalministries.org/africa/countries/mozambique/

Global Ministries Missionaries in Mozambique

Dawn and Jon Barnes members of the Seventh Street Christian Church, Richmond, Virginia, serve with the Mozambique Synod of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, based in Maputo, Mozambique. Jon works as project and development officer and Dawn serves as an HIV and AIDS Coordinator.

Pray for Partners without Global Ministries Mission Personnel: Ghana

God, we pray for the people in Ghana. We think especially of our partners there and ask you to bless their ministries as they serve the poor and the marginalized in their country. Amen

More info on Ghana: http://globalministries.org/africa/countries/ghana/