General Conference Bulletin, vol. 4

SUGGESTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF PRAYER

H. E. OSBORNE

This annual season of special religious services has been appointed to begin Sabbath, December 21, and to continue over Sabbath, December 28. The readings, which are printed in this number of the BULLETIN, have been prepared with the definite purpose of pointing out in the light of the Scriptures the crisis to which we have come in our work, the grave peril which now confronts us, and the real deliverance which there is for us and all others who will accept as a personal experience the truth of the message which the Lord is sending to all the world. We believe that the instruction instruction here given will prove to be a blessing to all those who are looking for light and help, and are willing to place themselves in the channel of blessing. Let there be much prayer for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. GCB October 1, 1901, page 588.1

In order that all may be making their plans to attend regularly these appointed services, attention should be called to them in advance by the church officers, and their importance should be urged upon all. There is usually a lull in the business world during this holiday season, and in most cases it is not so difficult to arrange for a short respite from the pressure of the daily toil. If due importance is attached to this season of spiritual revival, plans can be made for regular attendance upon the meetings, and for giving some additional time in visiting and helping those who need special encouragement. The benefit will be mutual. GCB October 1, 1901, page 588.2

There ought to be at least one public meeting each day. This may be held at such time as will best suit the circumstances of each church or company, although in most cases the evening will probably be the most suitable time. Each leader will of course feel free to conduct the services in such a way as seems to him to be best adapted to the needs of the people, but a suggestive order of exercises may do no harm. It would be well to bear in mind that it is a week of prayer, and provision should be made for special seasons of public prayer each day. A season of song and prayer at the opening of the service, followed by the reading for the day, and then another opportunity for united prayer, after which a brief Bible study upon the topic of the day, closing the meeting with testimony and prayer; such a program might meet the needs of most cases. The real object is the quickening of the spiritual life, and this demands a spiritual experience on the part of the leaders in order to awaken the people. Each one who has accepted the position of a leader and teacher ought to feel that a deep responsibility rests upon him to make this occasion one of special blessing. Let the church officers begin early to pray and counsel together that every proper means may be used to gather in the people, and to minister to them the very help which they need. GCB October 1, 1901, page 588.3

Good readers should be selected and they should be asked to study the matter beforehand, so that they shall be full of the spirit of the subject, and shall be able to read with the Spirit and with the understanding. If several good readers can be secured, then it might be well to employ a variety of talent. Give some thought to the selection of the hymns, so that they may be in harmony with the theme of the reading and at the same time full of gospel power. A number of brief, earnest prayers, the real cry of the soul for help borne upward upon the wings of praise, is an infinitely better opening for a service than one or two formal prayers. Oh for the living presence of him who “breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” Then song and prayer and reading and testimony would be only a means of receiving and imparting the heavenly light and power. Shall not this be the experience of all? GCB October 1, 1901, page 588.4

It is recommended that the annual offerings be received on Sabbath, December 28, unless special circumstances suggest some other time as more favorable. Suitable envelopes have been sent out by the Mission Board, and these should be distributed the first Sabbath. If any are unable to be present at that time, they should be visited as early in the week as possible, and envelopes furnished to them. All should be reminded of the offering during the week, so that this important part of the week’s service may not be overlooked. From those whose hearts have been touched with a sense of the surpassing love of God and of the privilege of being trusted as stewards of his bounties there should come liberal offerings for the hastening of the coming of his kingdom. Let the blessing of giving be plainly presented to all the people. and may the Lord inspire them to do liberal things for the benefit of the fields which are waiting for the message. The contributions should be forwarded promptly to the State treasurer, that they may reach the Mission Board with as little delay as possible. We shall wait with interest to hear of souls filled with all the fullness of God, and of a treasury abundantly supplied with means, as the result of this week of prayer. GCB October 1, 1901, page 588.5

GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE