April 23 - Pray for Rhode Island!

Ephes. 1:18-19
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, [19] and his incomparably great power for us who believe.

Thank you for joining the International Missions Society in our "month of prayer for missions." Today we are praying for the state of Rhode Island, known as "The Ocean State" because of the numerous bays and inlets which add about 15% to its total area. Rhode Island was the first of the 13 original colonies to declare independence from Great Britain, and the last to ratify the constitution. Click here for more information on Rhode Island.

In our efforts to build a stronger partnership and brotherhood in New England, it has come to our attention that the Rhode Island Church which was planted from Boston in 1993 no longer considers themselves to be part of the International Churches of Christ. They no longer desire to participate in the International Missions Society, which seeks to establish and strengthen congregations both here and in Europe. This saddens us, but we do recognize the right of each congregation to make its own choices in these matters. Both the church in Rhode Island and the other New England churches wish to affirm our mutual love for one another as brothers in Christ.

If you are looking for guidance in terms of what to pray for, here are some suggestions:

1. Pray that God will strengthen the disciples who are living in this state.
2. Pray that God will open hearts, and connect those open hearts with disciples.
3. Pray for wisdom of those involved in deciding on a new planting of an ICOC church in Rhode Island.

If you've received this message via Facebook and you've prayed for Rhode Island today, click "Like" to show your support. Thanks!