With a little help from Chat GPT, I created this "walking prayer" liturgy for gathering leadership the day before Annual Conference. We will pray on Wednesday, May 28, at 3:00 pm. Join us in the spirit of prayer, even if you are not physically present.
GATHERING
Leader: Let us begin in the name of the Father, and
of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
All: Come, Holy Spirit. Fill this place. Prepare
every room to be a space of grace.
Song: “Spirit of the living God”
Scripture: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord
of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints, for the courts of the Lord.”—Psalm
84:1–2a
Prayer: Gracious God, we
dedicate this space and the time we spend here to You. As we walk
and pray, let our steps be guided by your Spirit. Prepare each area
to be a sanctuary of your presence. Open hearts, renew minds, and
ignite faith in all who will gather here. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
WALK TO THE MAIN
ENTRANCE
Scripture: “Welcome one another, therefore, just as
Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” —Romans 15:7
Prayer: God of welcome,
may all who enter this place feel received, known, and safe.
Let the hospitality shown here
reflect your gracious invitation to all.
Prepare hearts from the moment
they step through the door. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
WALK TO THE LABYRINTH
Scripture: "Stand at the crossroads, and look,
and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way lies; and walk in it, and
find rest for your souls." — Jeremiah 6:16
Prayer: God of the journey, In this winding path,
remind us that every step with You is holy. Still our anxious thoughts, open
our hearts, and lead us in the way that brings peace. Let this walk draw us
nearer to Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
WALK TO THE MISSION
DISPLAYS
Scripture: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."— Luke 4:18–19
Prayer: God of mercy and
mission, You call us beyond our walls and beyond ourselves. As we give witness
to stories of service and justice, ignite in us a holy urgency to love boldly,
give freely, and serve faithfully. Let our hands become Your hands. Amen.
WALK TO THE
PRAYER ROOM
Scripture: “In returning and rest you shall be saved;
in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” —Isaiah 30:15
Prayer: Prince of Peace, may this room be a refuge
for the weary and a wellspring for the seeking. Let burdens be lifted and
hearts be still. Meet each person here in sacred silence and prayer. In Jesus’
name, Amen.
WALK TO THE
DINING AREA
Scripture: “They broke bread… and ate together with
glad and sincere hearts.” —Acts 2:46
Prayer: Lord of abundance, bless this space where
people will share meals and stories. Let every table become a table of
connection, joy, and spiritual nourishment. Feed us in body and soul. In Jesus’
name, Amen.
WALK TO THE SANCTUARY
Scripture: “Where two or three are gathered in my
name, I am there among them.” —Matthew 18:20
Prayer: Holy God, let this be a
place of Spirit-filled worship and conferencing.
Open every ear to hear your voice, every heart to receive your Word. Pour out your power through music, preaching, prayer, deliberation, celebration, and silence.
Song: “Surely the Presence”
CONCLUSION IN
THE NARTHEX
Leader: We have walked these rooms and halls with
prayerful hearts. We now entrust this space, this Annual Conference, and all
who will come here to the work of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: God of the journey, bless every step taken
in this place. As people move between sessions and rooms, may they carry
your peace. Let even the in-between moments be filled with your
presence. Use this entire place for your glory. Let lives be
changed, souls refreshed, and faith renewed. Make this house a holy ground, a
meeting place between heaven and earth.
Leader: May the God who walks before us, beside us,
and within us bless every gathering, every word spoken, every heart that draws
near. Go now in peace. Amen.
