Winnipeggers are being called to unite in prayer this week as Union Gospel Mission hosts its second annual 24-hour prayer event.
For 24 hours starting Friday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. until Saturday, March 1 at 6 p.m. participants will pray, read scripture and praise the Lord in fellowship in the basement of Union Gospel Mission.
"Prayer is incredibly powerful," said Martin Chidwick, development manager at UGM. "Not only are we praying for the folks out on the street, the drug addicts, the homeless, we're praying for provision. We're praying for the church family that supports us. It's a symbolic relationship that we have and we're excited about the power of prayer."
Martin said last year's event saw about three dozen people come through the doors, with many staying longer than anticipated.
"Some came for the one hour they'd signed up for and were still there three or four hours later," Martin explained. "Not only were they thrilled with the opportunity to pray, but they enjoyed the fellowship that they were meeting new people for the first time. It was a great experience and of huge value to our work and to the Kingdom."
Last year, they used the Book of Psalms during the event. This year Martin says they will be looking at the value of prayer from some of the great prayers that were prayed throughout scripture.
"Jesus showed us how valuable and how necessary prayer is, and we've been given this great gift," said Martin. "We can talk to the creator of this world. The enemy can't touch that. He is powerless against the Lord, and we access him through prayer."
Martin hopes to see plenty of people show up to participate in this year's event.
Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to contact UGM at 204-943-9904 ext 226.