Madison Christian Women

2006-05-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

Good news! And an announcement about moving on.

This blog is closing at this site. It's been moved to a Madison website/home page called All God's People

You can find the blog now at allgodspeople.com

The whole, convoluted, easily-forgettable web address is:
http://www.allgodspeople.com/madison/blog_category/madison_christian_women/

You can bookmark this on your computer, write it on a scrap of paper that you'll probably lose OR

Just log on to allgodspeople.com and click on Blogs. There I'll be. Surrounded by the guys - Fred Grossenbach, Gordon Govier, and a really delightful guy named Dwight who is writing devotionals every day.

the purpose of the whole website is to connect and resource the Body of Christ in Madison.

The vision of my blog is the same - to connect and equip and encourage women for, in, in need of, and asking God for impact and ministry in our city and region.

Bless you all. Come on over to All God's People....you can even make this your homepage so when you turn on your computer, instead of Google or some news service, you see All God's People smiling right at ya.

Julia

2006-05-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

May - and Madison Christian Women is sprouting again after a long hiatus.

The kids are antsy, waiting for summer break to come. It seemed as if we were shoveling snow one day and getting out the lawn mower the next. I'm ready to sell this time-sucker of a house and do the condo thing.

An interesting blog I discovered: Cerulean Sanctum. It's worth looking at.

But, the real focus of today's blog is to welcome you all again to Madison Christian Women - a blog for women, speaking to issues women care about, providing resources and information for women, about women, and to support and encourage ministry to women in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area.

Welcome back!

I want to introduce a new friend, Lilada Gee. Lilada is from Fountain of Life Church in Madison. She has a vision and heart about the size of Dane County. She's beginning an important ministry to women called Women of Worth.One of her visions is to minister to young, single moms. Other desires are to reach out to women with support and encouragement. We've been talking about healing and recovery for sexual abuse survivors.

We all bemoan the increasing rate of birth to young, single women. I often cry out to the Lord. Stop this! What can the church do? I note, with pain, that the pregnant girls least able to parent a child are often the ones least able to see that. The enemy of our souls has succeeded in making adoption a shameful thing in our nation. Girls are taught to say, "Oh, I couldn't possibly give my baby up." So, they abort their baby or keep a child they cannot raise. They bring another generation into a life of not-enough, fatherless struggling, and financial, spiritual, and emotional want.

In fact, the young women I've known who actually chose adoption were the ones I looked at and thought perhaps they had what it would take to raise a child...the support, the maturity, the resources inside and out. They were the ones mature enough to say "I can't" and choose another way.

So, one of the purposes of Women of Worth, this flower sprouting in Lilada's heart, is to reach out to young, single mothers. Can love, mentoring, support, a healthy church body, and a substitute family make the difference between another generation of conception outside of marriage and alone-parenthood and a child raised with what he or she needs to live as a whole person?

You can connect with Lilada at Lilada@lilada.com I know God has some daughters out there who carry a flame in their hearts for young, single mothers. Is that you? Women in ministry leadership in Madison know the need for outreach and encouragement to women from women. Sound like you? Then, meet my friend Lilada!

love to you all,

Julia

2005-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

Tonight, December 7th, is a National Day of Prayer for Runaway Kids.

This is spearheaded by Covenant House, a lifeline and (literally) life-saving ministry to runaway and homeless kids in a number of US urban centers (New York City, DC, New Orleans, San Francisco, Detroit, Toronto, Vancouver, Guatemala City, Mexico City, Newark, Ankorage, Hollywood, among others).

The NYC Covenant House staff and kids light candles on this day each year and walk to Times Square where they pray. The people who prey on these kids instead of pray for them do their drug, sex, and exploitation business on the streets surrounding Times Square. In faith, these Christians shine the light of Christ into those dark corners. In faith, they declare that the light is shining into the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.

Here's what the president of Covenant House has to say:

.
I believe with all my heart that if we raise our voices together in our Candlelight Vigil, we can truly change the world.
If even one more person can be convinced to take up our cause... or if just one more shivering, hungry child steps out of the shadows to the light and safety of Covenant House... doesn’t that make all our efforts worthwhile?
I hope you can join us on December 7th. We’ll be setting out from Covenant House at 5:30 p.m. for our special march to Times Square with our kids. Please bring a candle and remember to dress warmly.
And this year, if you can’t join us in person, I have a special request to make of you -- one that will allow you to be with us in spirit and make this Candlelight Vigil the most powerful one we’ve ever held.
On December 7th, I’m asking you to please light a candle at home and say a prayer for our kids.
Your candle and prayers -- combined with those of thousands of other caring people -- will light a beacon of hope for every homeless child across the country.
Many of these children have never had anyone to love them. Imagine the impact it will have on them when they learn that thousands and thousands of men and women all over the country are praying for them! Just thinking about it sends shivers up and down my spine.
And imagine the power of our prayers as we march up to Times Square, with row upon row of candles illuminating the faces of the walkers, lit in memory of street children who never made it home. Imagine the impact of our prayers as we ask God to watch over the homeless boys and girls struggling to survive.
Can you see now why your participation in our Candlelight Vigil is so important?
Whether you join us in person or in spirit, you will help make this Vigil a night of prayer, love and hope for the countless scared kids who are still out there all alone on the cold winter streets.

We in Madison don't need to travel to New York. We have only to reach State Street to find runaway, throwaway and homeless children. Right here in Madison are runaways from all over Wisconsin. Children in vampire cults. Teenagers selling their bodies for food and sleeping in dangerous and freezing places. They are hungry and angry and afraid. They don't trust anybody. They don't see a future.

YWAM folks reach out to these kids. A group of mom-type women show up weekly with hot coffee, sandwiches and concern. Salvation Army and churches like First Methodist or Pres House or St. Paul's located on or near State Street reach out. Other people I don't know about reach out and care.

Will you light a candle tonight? Will you pray for the ministry of Covenant House and the kids right here in Madison in need. Will you ask God to raise up such a ministry ?

During an all-night prayer vigil held the night of the State Street Halloween "party" the Lord said to me that "they are all your children. Will the Christians of Madison stand up and be mothers and fathers to them?"

Praying from my mother's heart,

Julia

2005-11-28T20:31:00.000-08:00

NEW BOOK!

Hey yeah! My very dear sister and friend Neta Jackson has just 'birthed' the fourth in a series of 6 books in the Yada Yada Prayer Group series.

Book 4, the Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Tough is a wonderful book. Just hit the top ten book list for Christian Booksellers Association. The series is about a group of women thrown together as a prayer group at a downtown Chicago Christian women's conference. When one woman receives an emergency call saying her son has been injured in a drive by shooting, the "thrown together" bunch realizes they just can't walk away from each other. God uses this tragedy to bring them together - and mold them into a family.

The main character is someone I wanted to throttle through the first book - maybe because many of her faults are, shall we say, sort of 'close to home." I've watched the characters (which are the real power in these books) mature, change, grow, be challenge, fail, try, forgive, and love each other.

Book #4 focuses on one of my favorite characters, Nonyemeko Sisulu-Smith, a lovely South African woman married to a Northwestern University professor. This woman fairly breathes scripture. Her prayers are like winds from heaven. But, in this book, everything is tested and stripped away until what remains is only that which cannot be shaken. I came away with a sobering realization that every piece of scripture I store up in my heart is a bulwark - a tower of refuge - that I can run to and be sheltered. That's what the character Nonyemeko does when the storm comes.

Neta deals with racism, parenthood, longings for more, despair, hope, encouragement coming in strange and unexpected places. Try the Christian Bookstore or check the public library (there might be a waiting list a mile long but it wouldn't hurt). And I, who normally turn up my nose at Christian fiction, really do love these books.

Tomorrow - a bit of news about the House of Prayer for the Nations on the east side.

Julia

2005-11-21T08:53:00.000-08:00

Are you waiting, counting the HOURS until the Narnian film, The Lion The Witch, and the Wardrobe comes out in December? (If you're not, well I am)

This film is filled with images that fairly roar of Jesus and His love for fallen, hard-hearted humans. Evidently publishers are coming out with bible studies based on the film. Great idea!
Take your neighbors and their kids and be prepared to talk.

My daughter was in a literature class at UW Madison a few years ago when the Narnia books came up in class discussion. Students launched into a "literary interpretation-type" discussion of the books. Beth listened as students put out all kinds of theories about Narnia as utopia, Aslan as the embodiment of wisdom, etc etc. Finally, she said, "Listen everybody. Aslan is Jesus. Son of the emperor over the Sea...son of God. He died in Edmund's place just like Jesus died for us, to pay the price for our sins." Her fellow students were amazed. "Really?" one student asked. "I never thought of it that way."

Clearly, this film is a beautiful opportunity to talk of the love of Jesus to a culture where many "never thought of it that way."

When I heard the movie was scheduled I rummaged through my book cases and, among the embarrassing number of books I own, found an old, much-loved title Journey into Narnia, The Lion of Judah in Never-Never Land by Kathryn Lindskoog.

This book was originally written before CS Lewis' death and republished in 1998. She discusses all the Narnian books from the perspective of their biblical foundations and message. Starting on page 101, is a chapter solely devoted to The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.

May I recommend this book for the sheer joy of finding a recipe for Turkish Delight, collections of lovely minutia, and details designed to delight the imagination. The chapter (actually every chapter) ends with ideas for talking and thinking.

I imagine a table set with beautiful mugs, a pot of really hot coffee made like my husband does, with cinnamon and fresh-ground beans, and a big slice of hot, homemade apple pie with cranberries and walnuts. A few friends and a long evening talking about Narnia and wishing we were there.

And, finally, the chapter ends with a benediction. I pass this on to you:

May Aslan restore all names to their proper owners.
May the warmth of his breath come over us.
May his breath bring the stone parts of us to life.
May we live on both sides of the wardrobe door.

Amen - and the book is available at Amazon.com --- free shipping!

Enjoy and blessed Thanksgiving.

Julia

2005-11-16T08:58:00.000-08:00

When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. Your name is safe in their mouth."Billy - age 4

Good Morning.
I flew in from San Diego just before the first snow of the year last evening. Got to visit my daughter and son-in-law where they're running at a sprinter's pace between work, school, trying to keep up relationships in their house group at church and just being newly married. Whew! But, it's 72 degrees and sunny there which makes up for a good deal!

I discovered an excellent resource for Christ-honoring, biblically-sound written materials. You may find yourself meeting with a woman struggling with some issue in her life, marriage, or family. You could thump some big, fat book (even a really good big, fat book) in her lap and say, "read this." She might. But, probably not. She's pretty overwhelmed, probably. She may be a young Christian.

RBC Ministries (they publish the Daily Bread devotional booklets) has published a series of short, well- written booklets offering insight and biblical understanding about issues including anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, verbal abuse, forgiveness, marital infidelity, marriage breakdown, healing from divorce, and rebuilding broken marriages.

Obviously, these booklets aren't going to fix anybody in 32 pages. But, they seem to be excellent "take home and think about it" resources for laying sound, biblical ground work for change, healing, and recovery.

Check them out at www.rbc.net Let me know what you think.

Finally, two things are about to happen. One, this blog is going to move. I'll be connecting with allgodspeople.com, a website for Christians in Madison. Second, I'm going to begin writing about sexual abuse issues. I'd like to hear from any women (or men) out there about your questions, thoughts, experiences, and concerns.

Love to you all. This is the last week of 24 hour prayer at 3 N. Park Street. If you'd like the privilege of praying with UW students, YWAMers or just regular folks from churches in Madison, check out the website at madison24-7prayer.org and sign up for a time to pray and honor our beautiful God.

love, Julia

2005-11-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

An Invitation to Glory!

My church, Faith Community, has been privileged to host 24 hour prayer since the 12th of october. What has happened, is a powerful presence of Holy Spirit in the physical and spiritual place. It's as if the prayer and worship has cleansed and prepared the spiritual ground. God inhabits the praise of His people - really!

THe following invitation came this morning from Kirsten Miller. Please pass it on to anyone interested. Come yourself. Check the website for "open" hours or just come:

People of God:The Lord is waiting to meet with you;He says "Come".There are many opportunities to lift up your prayers in the prayer room this week.There is an undeniable presence.Thank God for the beautiful testimonies in worship yesterday; There are many more untold and yet to be experienced!Come.
www.madison24-7prayer.org

2005-11-06T20:33:00.000-08:00

And All God's People said Amen, right? Well, usually. But a group of brothers have created a new web site called All God's People.com (www.allgodspeople.com) This is a site for and about the Madison Christian community. You can learn about events, read articles (like one Gordon Govier is writing about the Exploitation of Children conference held last weekend here), and find out what's happening. There'll be links to national and local news, church, ministry and other web sites, and advertising that isn't disgusting or fueling the tobacco and booze industries!

This blog, along with a lot of other useful "stuff" is going to be available at the All God's People website. YOu can even have it pop onto your computer screen when you turn it on every morning so your first source for information and links is the Christian community.

Who is involved? Fred Grossenbach of Jericho Project (you all probably know his wonderful wife and (as Fred described her) "Vice President of Prayer," Anne. Gordon Govier of InterVarsity is one of the writers/creative folks. Kenton Sorenson (husband of Marlene, the pastor of Women's Ministry at Mad City and the only woman to serve in this capacity in any Madison church) and Lennhart Johannsen are computer guys (along with a couple of their colleagues).

Check this out! It launches on Tuesday. You can see the web site and get a sense of their perspective. As they've expressed their vision, one element was of particular significance to me. They are committed to being a voice and crossroads for the Body of Christ in Madison. That means "anyone who affirms the Apostle's Creed" - which means it won't be an insular bunch of evangelicals. Neither will it represent some denomination or particular perspective. Their goal will be to build bridges and encourage unity.

So, check this out. If you like what you see, you may want to set your computer so every day when you hit the "on" button, you'll find yourself surrounded by "all God's people!" (Pun intended :)

Julia

2005-11-03T19:44:00.001-08:00

WhatchadoinFriday?

Sisters, are you "standing in the need of prayer?"

Fridays from 11am to 1pm at Faith Community Bible Church, 3 N. Park Street, the Prayer Room is open.

Teams of trained prayer ministers come every Friday to pray with anyone who wants or needs prayer. Come if you want healing. Come if you need a word from God, direction, insight, or understanding. Come if you just want to take some time to be still in the presence of God and soak in His beauty.

The Prayer Room started about a year ago. Step by step, the prayer teams have learned, trained, and grown. These brothers and sisters are pressing in, asking God for healing and wholeness for the Body of Christ and for anyone willing to come and ask God for grace!

No appointments needed. Just come on in and see what God is just waiting to do in our hearts.

Come on down~

Julia

2005-11-03T19:44:00.000-08:00

2005-10-29T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll. Do you know the Catacombs Coffeehouse on Library Mall?

It's a Christian ministry committed to create a welcoming environment for college students. They've been under fire in the media for the radical idea that they should be free to hire Christians to work in the coffee house - since it's a ministry. (the sound you hear is me sighing. What a world...what a world)

From my friend and Catacombs board member, artist, warrior, and visionary, Bobbette Rose:

check out the Catacombs Coffeehouse Web site.... has alot of great events listed.... http://www.catacombscoffeehouse.com

Even though the Cat continues to be in the middle of a hard semester, many neat things are happening that convince us to stay in the race and keep believing.

Please join us in this, we continue to need prayer and support.We tried the benefit lunch for SUDAN on Friday and we and the Sudan group weren't quite as organized as we needed to be...so we are doing it again Monday. The food is great, all from Sudanese recipes, the lunch is $4.00 and a part of each meal goes to help people in Darfur (more on this situation can be found at http://www.savedarfur.org/) (Monday, Oct. 31)

"The Close" an indie band out of Atlanta, contacted us to play at the Cat even though we told them our situation and couldn't guarantee there would be any people coming and they said they understood and still wanted to play for whoever shows up. They just seem like a good bunch. If you or anyone you know likes Indie music and can take a late night on Tuesday....come out and hear them...the door is low and it all goes to them. I'm hoping we can raise some gas money for them and maybe more. (Tuesday, Nov.1)

And amazingly we are getting Zana Brisky to come over to the Cat after the viewing of her award winning documentary "Born In Brothels". She will have a Q&A right after the film and then everyone is invited over to the Cat for a reception and book signing. Its all free....don't miss it. (Friday, Nov. 4)

(This is part of a conference on the Exploitation of Children sponsored by Mad City Church and New College Madison and WUD. Ron Sider is also coming in to speak at this conference...get more info and register at http://www.newcollegemadison.com)

And the truly spectacular event we have coming is ANNASTHESIA. This is an event not to be missed, something between a rock concert and performance art...they call it "abstract theatre" and promises to be an exciting production. Its a 12 person group out of the Boston area. (Saturday, Nov. 12)

So, skip the mall. Ditch Starbucks. Head on down to the Catacombs to support this important outreach to students and this beach head on the campus.

Enjoy!
Julia

2005-10-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

Come on down, sisters,

Laurie Croasdale, a Christian jazz musician in Madison has gathered a group of jazz artists to offer a Jazz Vespers at Faith Community's 24/7 prayer room. Come on down 8 til 10 at 3 N. Park Street tomorrow (Saturday).

The music and worship will be bold and beautiful. So, if you're feelin' bold or beautiful - or even if you're not - come on down for an opportunity to lift the name of Jesus up!

Let me know if you read this on the blog. I'm still wondering if anyone is out there reading!

Blessings from the Wall,

Julia

2005-10-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel as if I have no more room in my heart. That I can't touch pain in one more setting. The daily realities of women - sexual abuse, battering, poverty, single-parenting, women in burkas who can't vote or hold a passport. Women in "legal" prostitution in Nevada - then discovering most are single mothers with few job skills selling the only resource they believe they have to offer. Women and children raped in the supposed "shelters" in New Orleans. Sometimes I just sit in my prayer chair and cry.

That said, God keeps expanding the walls of my heart. Waking my heart. He's telling me to "Live from the Heart Jesus Gave You" - the title of a book by James Friesen and James Wilder and others that I'm reading now.

Can we live from our hearts? Is it painful and scary?

My friend Kermit just sent this to me. I didn't even want to open the email. Still, that gentle voice whispers, "Are you willing to live from your heart? The heart I gave you?" When we go where Jesus goes...dragging our hearts to the places his heart lives....we find Him there. And, more than anything I want to be where Jesus is. I want to LIVE there.

So, tuck this event in your prayer sleeve. Pass it on to others. Gather up your heart and go yourself.

Wanting to live where Jesus lives,
Julia

A Conference on the Exploitation of Children

A hurricane and the real suffering it inflicts gets seemingly non-stop coverage on TV, but when do we find out about the silent tragedies of exploited children tucked away from view, tragedies repeated thousands if not millions of times over.

Children are bought, sold, abused and used for sex, war and more.

The Justice Forum event "A Conference on the Exploitation of Children" will bring local and national figures to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Memorial Union on November 4-5, 2005 to educate and challenge participants about this ongoing crisis .

(Go to http://www.newcollegemadison.org/ExploitationofChildrenConference.cfm for conference details)

Featured speakers include Ron Sider, President of Evangelicals for Social Action, Zana Briski, Director of the Academy Award-winning film "Born Into Brothels", Rob Morris, President of Justice for Children International and Bethany Hanke of International Justice Mission.

The event is jointly sponsored by Mad City Church, New College Madison, Wisconsin Union Directorate Contemporary Issues Program and WE International

http://www.newcollegemadison.org/ExploitationofChildrenConference.cfm)
November 4-5, 2005

Justice Forum: University of Wisconsin Memorial Union (Tripp Commons and other locations)

Friday, November 4, 1:00-6:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 5, 9:00 am ? 5:30 p.m.

It is our hope that through the Justice Forum, individuals, organizations and churches would be informed, mobilized and equipped to respond to issues of injustice in the nations with awareness, humility, and action.

2005-10-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Halloween....okay, this might be a "strap yourselves in and hang on" kind of posting for some of you. But, hang on and ask the Lord to show you what's important for you to know and consider.

During my childhood (I'm 53, so that was a long time ago) Halloween was relatively low key. We went up and down the street dressed like gypsies or ghosts or baseball players. My one grandma gave out nickle candy bars. The other made carmel apples or popcorn balls. It always seemed to rain.

When my own children were young I felt uncomfortable about the rising incidents of Halloween-related violence and children wearing truly horrifying costumes. My kids dressed as princesses, ballerinas, and clowns. We rang doorbells on our block and visited a couple of elderly folks who enjoyed the fun. Eventually, our church started holding a Harvest Festival alternative to Halloween.

We moved to Madison where our whole church would go bowling together. Kids might dress up, but that wasn't a focus. They got treat bags and had lots of fun.

In recent years my discomfort with Halloween has increased. I'm involved in inner healing and deliverance prayer ministry. In that role, I've begun to meet people who were or are involved in witchcraft, covens, satanic circles, and other occult groups. I've come to know a number of adults who were exposed to occult rituals during their childhood. This is called satanic ritual abuse. I won't give details here, but believe me, it is horrifying and true.

This leads me to Halloween. Remembering that the Holy One who is in us is greater than the evil one who is in the world. Standing with certainty in the spiritual authority we have because Christ is in us. Affirming the truth that satan has nothing and owns nothing and can create nothing unless humans give it to him. With all this in mind, I want to speak to the spiritual underpinnings of Halloween.

Halloween is a high "holy" day for the worshipers of satan. Special rituals and evil acts are reserved for this day. Blood rituals, including child sacrifice are done on this day. It is considered an honor for a woman to be chosen to induce her unborn child so the baby can be born on this night and dedicated to satan on the altar. This isn't a masquerade or a bunch of people pretending to be vampires or dressing up like witches. This is the real thing.

The spiritual forces unleashed by these rituals are real. When a Christian chooses to be obedient to Jesus, as when you choose to forgive someone's sin against you, spiritual power is released. This godly spiritual power changes the spiritual atmosphere. It can actually affect the situation. It removes bondage from the person who has hurt you.

Evil actions also release power. On Halloween, that power is like a flood rushing up State Street to devour and slime and draw our children into sin. To dull their consciences and distort their view of good and evil. No wonder violence erupts. No wonder the police must deal with rapes and drunkenness and assaults.

If the sewers in your neighborhood were overflowing, who would let their children out to play?
Well, the spiritual sewers are overflowing on Halloween.

but, it's just innocent fun to dress up like a princess and get candy from the neighbors. Of course our children are innocent. So, probably, are the neighbors. There's nothing wrong with fun, costumes and treats. The problem is what's happening in the spirit realm and the resulting spiritual atmosphere. My concern is churches and Christian families not protecting our children from spiritual sewage being released into our cities and neighborhoods.

There are people in your neighborhood involved in witchcraft, satanism, or other occult practices. They may be occupied on Halloween worshiping and offering ritual sacrifices to their god, goddess, or satan himself. Their worship is a conduit satan uses to wound the humans Jesus died for and to get power and glory for himself.

Please ask the Lord what you and your family should be doing on Halloween. Remember, WE are the bride of Christ. If we resist satan, he must flee. We do not need to fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day. Jesus is our shield and defender. We are warriors armed with the Word of God, the Holy Spirit blazing in our hearts, and the blood of Jesus, which has already defeated satan.

24 hour prayer is happening at Faith Community Bible Church, 3 North Park Street in Madison. At Fountain of Life Church, and The Madison House of Prayer on Eagan Road near the east side Princeton Club. You may want to connect with or just show up at any of these locations to pray a wall around our community and our children as Halloween approaches.

On the Wall,

Julia

2005-10-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Women of God,What is your story? Can you even find it in the rubble of busyness and obligations? Have you told it - in bits and pieces? What happened?

Dan Allender has written a new book, To Be Told. He speaks of the value and power - both for healing and change - of discovering and sharing your story with a community of trusted saints.It's an amazing walk through the idea that we come into the presence of God by digging into, discovering, and sharing our stories.

The stories aren't "beginning to end autobiographies" but bits and pieces of our lives shared with others.The comments, insights, and questions of a trusted group help us to dig a little deeper or clarify, or discard a false story that wasn't really our hearts speaking, but was just religious window dressing or trying to look good.

The book leaves me excited. wanting to see it happen in real life. But also overwhelmed by too many possibilities.

But seeing how our stories can be told and received in every place - over coffee with one close friend. In prayer times with somebody in pain. In small groups where "share and prayer" has in the past meant brief "prayer request style" sharing about problems at work or with the kids and short, well-meaning but limp prayers in response...but where the desire of people to love each other holds such unfulfilled promise.

Think of Sunday school classes and bible study groups once carefully sheltered from anything personal.. Imagine if we learn how to invite stories into those places - to connect the heart and head in that way and in that context?

The book fits with the vision and heart of community. It has helped me understand more the place and function of story in community and in healing as a whole.

This month, I spent a week at a seminar designed to help me both walk into and through my own healing and learn to help others by facilitating groups for healig and recovery from sexual and other forms of abuse. Now, after this whirlwind, I've committed myself not to launch off and start a healing group, but to take time to sort and heal and find the parts of my heart I lost along the way...I wonder how discovering and telling my story will be part of the healing and finding?

What is my Longing as I read this book? Wow. To be really, deeply known and still loved. To tell parts of my story and be believed. Be taken seriously. At the same time, to be loved well...not just accepted with smiles and nods and people who accept my words as true just because they sound good, but to have a trusted few enter in

What's stirring in heart as I read this book? Wow again. Urgency. Sisters, it's WAY past time to be totally real and vulnerable. It's past time to get healed and whole. I want to change. Really change. And I want it now. I want to pick up my weapons and have at it - battle for the healing of the brokenhearted. Battle to see the bride of Christ whole and healed and shining like floodlights into the darkness.

Guess I should say I recommend the book, huh? Wait til you get to the chapter on fasting! :)

Also, check out www.storyfeast.org This woman has written a short guide for people who would like to gather groups to tell their own stories and see what God will bring of them.

love to you all,

Julia

2005-10-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Women of God,
What is your story? Can you even find it in the rubble of busyness and obligations? Have you told it - in bits and pieces? What happened?

Dan Allender has written a new book, To Be Told. He speaks of the value and power - both for healing and change - of discovering and sharing your story with a community of trusted saints.It's an amazing walk through the idea that we come into the presence of God by digging into, discovering, and sharing our stories.

The stories aren't "beginning to end autobiographies" but bits and pieces of our lives shared with others.

The comments, insights, and questions of a trusted group help us to dig a little deeper or clarify, or discard a false story that wasn't really our hearts speaking, but was just religious window dressing or trying to look good.

The book leaves me excited. wanting to see it happen in real life. But also overwhelmed by too many possibilities.

But seeing how our stories can be told and received in every place - over coffee with one close friend. In prayer times with somebody in pain. In small groups where "share and prayer" has in the past meant brief "prayer request style" sharing about problems at work or with the kids and short, well-meaning but limp prayers in response...but where the desire of people to love each other holds such unfulfilled promise.

In Sunday school classes and bible study groups once carefully sheltered from anything personal.. Imagine if we learn how to invite stories into those places - to connect the heart and head in that way and in that context?

The book fits with the vision and heart of community. It has helped me understand more the place and function of story in community and in healing as a whole.

This month, I spent a week at a seminar designed to help people both walk into and through their own healing and learn to help others by facilitating groups for healig and recovery from sexual and other forms of abuse.

Now, after this whirlwind, I've committed myself not to launch off and start a healing group, but to take time to sort and heal and find the parts of my heart I lost along the way...I wonder how discovering and telling my story will be part of the healing and finding?

What is my Longing as I read this book? Wow. To be really, deeply known and still loved. To tell parts of my story and be believed. Be taken seriously. At the same time, to be loved well...not just accepted with smiles and nods and people who accept my words as true just because they sound good, but to have a trusted few enter in

What's stirring in heart as I read this book? Wow again. Urgency. Sisters, it's WAY past time to be totally real and vulnerable. It's past time to get healed and whole. I want to change. Really change. And I want it now. I want to pick up my weapons and have at it - battle for the healing of the brokenhearted. Battle to see the bride of Christ whole and healed and shining like floodlights into the darkness.

Guess I should say I recommend the book, huh? Wait til you get to the chapter on fasting! :)

Also, check out www.storyfeast.org This woman has written a short guide for people who would like to gather groups to tell their own stories and see what God will bring of them.
love to you all,
Julia

2005-10-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

I'm hearing about groups forming around the city to support and bring healing to their members. A group in Spring Green is learning to set boundaries. A Christ-centered AA group is meeting at Grace Episcopal. A bunch of really young newlywed guys are meeting to learn to be good husbands (Oh hallelujah! Give them all you've got, God!)

these folks aren't waiting for the "professionals" to help them. They aren't expecting the paid pastors to create programs to meet their needs. They're finding others like themselves, with common needs and growing edges. And, they're getting together to support each other.

Have you journeyed through a hard place? Do you have something to offer. Perhaps, what you need is what someone else has to offer - and what you have to give is what someone else needs.
(Thanks to my friend Diana for that measuring stick of grace!)

Here's a story that triggered these thoughts:

A man was walking down the street in New York. There was a huge area where the sidewalk had fallen in and created a huge pit. Not seeing it in time, the man fell in. A lawyer ran to the edge of the pit and handed him his card. "When you get out, be sure and call me." "I will sue the city for you ." A doctor ran to the edge and also handed him a card. "I can see you are hurt, come and see me first thing when you get out." A third man came along and jumped into the pit with him. The man who fell in said "you should not have jumped in the horrible pit with me." The third man said "it's OK, I have been here before and I know the way out."

Have you been there before? Do you know the way out? Or, if you don't know the way out but can find some other folks down in the pit with you, perhaps you can make your way out together.

Two are better than one. For if one falls, the other can hold him up. And, a three-fold cord is not easily broken.

If you have or are gathering a group of like-minded folks journeying into healing, seeking support, or wanting to grow...let me know and I'll pass the word along here.

To Healing! Two are better than One!

Julia

2005-10-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Are you bone-weary? Has the road between your longing and its realization been too long?

Laura Jacobson passed this on and I want to pass it on again. Be encouraged. The enemy may be prowling around like a lion looking for someone to devour, but he will be denied. Jesus isn't slow. He's coming. He sees. We aren't alone.

This is long, but follow your heart through to the end.

If We Do Not Lose Heart
Francis Frangipane

"He will speak out against the Most High and wear down the saints of the Highest One, and he will intend to make alterations in times and in law; and they will be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time." Daniel 7:25

The prophet Daniel warns of a time when Satan, through the Antichrist, will seek to wear down the strength of God?s saints. How this occurs in the final hours of the age remains to be seen, but on one level this battle already is going on today: Satan seeks to wear us out through delays ("alterations in times") and in compromise of God's Word ("alterations in law").

The final effect of what seems like never-ending delays is that believers are worn out. Do you know anyone who is weary with his or her battle? Are you yourself weary? I know many who seem trapped in situations that should have been remedied months and even years ago but the battle continues against them. Situations and people, often empowered by demonic resistance, stand in opposition to the forward progress of God's people. As a result of satanic spiritual resistance, many Christians incrementally accept this resistance until a quiet, but weighty, oppression rests on their souls.

This battle to wear out the saints may be rooted in conflicts with children or spouses; perhaps it is some unresolved issue or division within their churches. It may be a work conflict or health battle, yet on and on it goes. Like a skilled and masterful thief, the enemy daily steals the joy, strength and passion of Christians, and many do not even realize what they have lost or how much.

The scale is actually larger than our personal struggles. Consider the various conflicts in the world. Some have continued for generations. We can understand why, even in the midst of great worship and praise by the redeemed, there is a place under the altar in heaven where the saints continue to ask, "How long, O Lord" (Revelation 6:10). Fifty-eight times in the Bible, from beginning to end, the phrase how long is echoed by those who grew weary with waiting.

Sometimes the delays are God-ordained to perfect faith; as we seek Him He helps us grow. On the other hand, there is a vicious attack against us to oppose and delay the fulfillment of God's plans for us until we grow weary and quit.

Satan is the dragon whose goal is to "drag-on" the battle with draining, wearying delays. He persists until we wear out, give up and quit praying. Additionally, as situations stretch beyond reasonably expected conclusions, weariness of soul can also exacerbate the original situation, leading to fleshly reactions or just overreactions, which also need resolution. We lose patience, eventually seeking relief rather than victory. This compromises the standards of God and conscience.

PerseveranceThere is a reason the book of Revelation mentions the word perseverance seven times. Over and over again we see those who persevered and overcame. It is one thing to have vision, another to have godly motives, but neither will carry us to our objectives by itself. We must also persevere.The root of the word persevere is the word severe. We must face the fact that en route to victory our trials may get severe.

Likewise, it is with severe faith - severe or extreme steadfastness - that we inherit the promises of God (see Hebrews 10:36). James tells us: "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:2-4).

Endurance. Perseverance. Steadfastness. These are the qualities that breed character, that transform the doctrine of Christlikeness into a way of life. "Let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect." The key to perfection, to a life "lacking in nothing" is perseverance.

Weariness of the Min. Have you grown weary? You are not alone. Part of the weariness we feel comes from faulty thinking. If we had known the battle was going to take as long as it has, we would have prepared for it more realistically. Every building plan will probably take twice as long as we assume; every virtue will take a year, not a weekend, to be truly worked in us. It may take a generation for some of our loved ones to be saved. If things happen sooner, we can rejoice. But we must guard ourselves lest we prepare only for the easiest of breakthroughs; some things will not manifest without time and tears.

You may think that it sounds like unbelief to expect difficulties. I don't think so. I think it is wisdom. Wisdom is not the enemy of faith. I have found that if I don't trust God and relax, I become anxious, fretful and distracted. I have also found that the Holy Spirit will not descend and rest in power upon a man who is fearful and controlled by his external circumstances.

Jesus' spirit stayed in abiding peace, yet still He accommodated delays as part of life's package. He was often delayed by the huge crowds or urgent needs of the people around Him. People died waiting for Jesus to show up. Did He become anxious? No, He stayed focused on the Father and without losing His trust in God, simply raised the dead.

At some point we must come to the conclusion that God knows when we are growing weary in battle - be it praying for the salvation of a loved one or one more frustrating delay in reaching our vision. We must trust that He knows our battle and that He has a conclusion waiting us.

I know a dear pastor who labored long and hard with a new building project, but it was constantly being delayed. It was first scheduled for completion in September, then rescheduled for December, then January and then February. Finally, with weariness in his voice, he called and asked if I could join him for their dedication. It was set for the first week of March.

"When exactly do you need me?? I asked.

He answered, "March fourth." Suddenly the Holy Spirit illuminated my heart. I told him that God had chosen this date prophetically. The Lord wanted that church, as an army, to ="march forth" into their destiny. In a flash, the weariness weighing upon him was gone; joy and a sense of destiny swept his soul. The delay wore him out, but the delay in the hands of God became inspirational.

Dear ones, let us persevere. We just do not know what the victory will look like when we finally break through. Consider Joseph. Betrayed, enslaved, slandered and forgotten, he had to endure to reach his destiny. But the time finally arrived, and never in his wildest dreams could he have imagined that the outcome would be so wonderful.

What we become is more important to God than what we do for Him. Our struggle, though we may have been delayed time and again, deepens our character. Maintaining our standards when pressed, finding grace when stretched, makes us true men and women of God. The Almighty One is in control. He knows how to take what was meant for evil and transform it into something good, even using the devil's own devices to bring him down.

God has something marvelous in store for us otherwise the enemy would not be fighting so intensely. Indeed, Scripture tells us that Satan rages worst when he knows his time is short (see Revelation 12:12).

Character Before Breakthrough: We mentioned Daniel earlier as a prophet who warned about Satan's ploy to wear down the saints. God gave him a vision of the end of the age.

Here is what he wrote: "I kept looking, and that horn was waging war with the saints and overpowering them" (Daniel 7:21).

This is the nature of the battle. There are times we feel war storming against our souls, overpowering us. But the prophet said the sense of overpowering continued only "until the Ancient of Days came and judgment was passed in favor of the saints of the Highest One, and the time arrived when the saints took possession of the kingdom" (Daniel 7:22).

There is a principle here that, once understood, will lead to victory in our battles. There will be a time, inevitably, when we feel overpowered. Yet if we endure, if we climb higher into God, if we refuse to lose our trust in God, a time will come when the Ancient of Days enters our circumstances. Looking at our newly developed character, which has grown strong through perseverance, He will pass judgment in favor of our cause.

God looks at our character, forged in the fire of overpowering delays and battle, and says, "Good, this is what I was waiting for." Whatever your battle, whether you are praying for your country or standing for your children, whether your cry is for the lost or for the end of some local or personal conflict, remember the words of Paul: "Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary" (Galatians 6:9).

Master, I ask that You work in me the character that perseveres until the end. Forgive me for being such a wimp. Help me to grow up, to stand up until the harvest I have sown spiritually bears fruit. Thank You for not giving up on me! In Jesus' name, Amen.

2005-10-16T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Sisters,

I'm back from Michigan and will have some more to say about the training to facilitate healing groups for sexually abused women.

Right now, I've got some lovely non-heavy news:

International Christian Jazz Musicians Unite
on Friday, October 28
in the Oakwood Village Theater at 7:30 p.m.
A Benefit Concert for the rebuilding of New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz

The concert will feature special music by British musicians:
Julie Dunn vocalist/composer/pianist http://www.juliedunn.co.uk
Ray Butcher trumpeter/composer

And Madison's own:

John Becker - vibraphonist/composer

Jim Huwe -drummer

Laurie Lang - bassist/composer
Write your own ticket price and all proceeds will go to Habitat for Humanity’s “Operation Home Delivery” – its large-scale rebuilding effort which will begin in October 2005.

Oakwood Village Theater is located at 6165 Mineral Point Road in Madison. Oakwood Village has a beautiful theater with a wonderful grand piano, a perfect setting for such a concert. For more information please contact Laurie Lang Croasdale: email: Croasdal@aol.com or calling (608) 833-2200.

AND, another Jazz concert as part of the 24 hour / 40 days of prayer at Faith Community Bible Church. Join us for Jazz Vespers.

A Creative, Improvisational Night of Evening Prayers
Prepare your heart to stand on holy ground
Enter through thankfulness
Together we will Light the lamp
Tend the flame
Send it out into the world
with Julie Dunn, Ray Butcher, Laurie Lang, John Becker, Tom Cook, Penny Seaberg and You!Saturday, October 29th
7-10 pm
at Faith Community Bible Church(on the corner of Park and Regent Street)

Spread the word. Send this web address to everyone who might love a night of jazz and "vespers" - sweet music before the throne.

That's a good ending...sweet music before the throne.

Bless you,
Julia

2005-10-09T10:43:00.001-07:00

I lied. Yesterday's wasn't the last posting.

Here's some information if you're interested in joining those beautiful students from UW and YWAM and the folks at Faith Community Bible Church during forth days of 24 hour prayer

From the coordinators:

On October 12th we will begin another 40 days of 24-7 prayer. The Lord has made it clear to us that this is what He desires and already the pieces necessary to make this happen are coming together.

The theme for these 40 days of prayer will be ‘Prepare the Way of the Lord’ from Isaiah 40:3 A voice cries out: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

The prayer room will be located at FCBC 3 North Park Street, Madison.

The format for signing up for 1 or more hours of prayer is: Go to www.madison24-7prayer.org to check on availability and send your requests for prayer times to madison24_7prayer@yahoo.com.

Join us. The glory of the Lord will be revealed and all people shall see it together!

HOLY!

Julia

2005-10-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

2005-10-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

This will be the last posting for a week. I'll be in Michigan attending a SALTS training (Survivors of Abuse Leadership Training Seminar). This course provides training to facilitate healing and recovery groups for abused people. I'm going to learn how to facilitate healing and recovery groups for abused women. I believe God will soon draw together women here who want healing for their broken hearts.

I appreciate your prayers. I'm pretty nervous about the whole thing.

This might be a good opportunity to pray especially for people you know who are or have been physically, emotionally, verbally or sexually abused.

If you wonder what verbal abuse is, may I suggest the book The Verbally Abusive Relationship by Patricia Evans. Some might not pick up this book because it isn't written from a Christian perspective. I found it immensely helpful. Many confusing experiences and situations became clear and made sense when I understood the dynamics and behaviors that constitute verbal abuse (for example, I learned how and why the "silent treatment" is so hurtful and abusive to people...it says...without speaking of course, "you aren't worthy of my attention. I don't have to treat you with dignity. As a matter of fact, I don't even have to recognize that you exist.")

We've all known people whose words are razor blades to cut and wound. Perhaps you or someone you care about is constantly corrected or told "No, you don't think that" or put down with hurtful names or words that say, "you're stupid" or "you screwed up, as always."

This is verbal abuse. Evans' book helps readers understand what verbal abuse looks like and why it's hurtful. She explains this more clearly than anyone I've encountered. That said, the book doesn't have much hope to offer for change, but Jesus does.

If you read this book and realize you're on the receiving end of hurtful words and behavior, seek someone who can walk with you through healing prayer ministry.

Would you take this opportunity to pass www.madisonchristianwomen.blogspot.com on to a friend? To your church, prayer circle, or bible study group?

thank you,

Blessings for wholeness,

Julia

2005-10-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Whatcha doin' in themiddle of the night?

God is raising up 24/7 prayer in Madison. The House of Prayer on the east side is launching. Fountain of Life is praying as a body.

College students from UW-Madison are partnering with Faith Community Bible Church for forty days of 24 hour prayer beginning October 12 until November 22nd.

Would you like to join this time of intercession - worship and prayer - before the throne of God? Come into His presence with singing. Enter His gates with Thanksgiving. The enemy does everything possible to silence the Name above all Names. Come, join us. Speak the name of our precious Jesus all night long!

For information call FCBC at 255 8484.

2005-10-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

Madison Sisters,

Please pray. I received the following:

This has been forwarded from Rolland Baker, who just arrived back in Mozambique:
"I finally got home to Pemba after five flights, but on arrival had to turn around immediately and take Heidi to an emergency clinic in Maputo, and now we are on our way to a hospital in South Africa. She has an extremely dangerous, life-threatening staph infection that has re-surfaced after she was hospitalized with the same thing three weeks ago in Malaysia. This type of staph is highly drug-resistant, and in Malaysia was affected by only one kind of a! ntibiotic in the world. Heidi has been taking that antibiotic for these three weeks, but now the infection has flared up severely and is out of control. She has had this infection a number of times over the years, passing it on to me once. Each time it gets worse and harder to treat. Now it is spreading quickly and she is in great pain. We and all at our base in Pemba are praying, and now we are asking for our friends around the world to pray and join with us in trusting Jesus with all our hearts."
Please go with us before His throne for healing and victory. Together in His Love, Gordon Haggerty for Rolland & Heidi

Rolland and Heidi Baker are missionaries in Mozambique. Their ministry is first to abandoned children (as Heidi says, "They're not orphans. Just look at those faces. They have love. They have Jesus.")

They've also planted little village churches all over Malawi, Mozambique, some in Kenya and even in Indonesia and India. Their lives are living proof that whether we have much or nothing materially we have riches beyond telling to give. We can always give Jesus, even in the most hopeless situations.

Please pray. The enemy has tried to take these faithful people out before.

ALSO a reminder that this weekend is the Beth Moore simulcast at High Point Church. She's a gifted teacher who speaks honestly about her journey to and with Jesus. Take friends open to the gospel. Go to be encouraged and challenged.

Friday evening 6 until 8:30 pm and Saturday morning 8 until 11:30.
Cost is $30. Tickets available at the door. It would help to call (by thursday) and reserve tickets and save waiting in line! 836-3236 Ask for Jessica Peckham at extension 127.

Office hours 9-5. You can also buy tickets at the office before Friday.

blessings sister. Lift up your heads!

Julia

2005-10-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

Women Warriors,

Thinking this weekend about a common event in churches for which we seem to have few models: leaving.

Members leave a church for many reasons. Perhaps you're moving too far away. Perhaps you're called to a specific ministry in which your present congregation isn't involved.

Perhaps your needs have changed. Maybe you need the intimacy of small, "house" groups and your present church is very large. Perhaps you are hungering for the beauty of liturgy or the beauty of charismatic worship. Good friends left their church because they have an inter-racial family and needed a church where godly, loving men "looked like" their youngest son.

We leave because of pain and conflict. One of the most powerful tools of the enemy of our souls is the spirit of disunity and offense. If satan can get us to feel offended, he will try to move us to disunity. If we agree with that offense (they hurt me or didn't meet my needs or betrayed my trust or ?????) and give it ground in our hearts, we open ourselves to all sorts of spiritual garbage...the spirit of judgement and criticism is just waiting for that open door. If we aren't careful, we may find ourselves torn from friends and beloved ones over "issues" or disagreements.

We can refuse that spirit of offense, sisters. Even when we have been hurt by someone or some decision. Even if the reality is we have been disregarded or manipulated or ???? We can choose not to exercise our "right" to be offended. We can choose (over and over) not to judge. Not to criticize. Not to speak negatively of others as individuals or corporately.

My thoughts on leaving: please, please don't leave without a word. Speak personally to your closest friends. Write a short note to the entire church. Ask the pastor to read it on Sunday morning. Or, even better (scarier, but better) stand up on Sunday morning and say, "I love you. I'm sorry if I've hurt you. My needs have changed and I've decided to leave. I'll be going to XYZ church (or I'm not sure what is next for me). But I want to say that I love you all. I thank you for the years we've had together. I thank you for the ways you've loved and cared for me.
I bless you as individuals and this church as a community I bless this church with growth and fruitfulness and loving relationships."

If you're in a church where Sunday services are tightly scheduled and personal sharing doesn't happen, put your note in the church announcements or newsletter. Send an email to the congregation through your list serve. Copy this note and ask that it be handed out with the Sunday bulletin.
Make the effort out of love - NOT to make a point or tell the reasons why the church failed you and you're "out of here." But to love and bless.

Hard? You betcha. Will God bless it? Yes.

(note the "I" statements. Even if the church really has failed you, don't go there. Are there people in the Body who have loved and befriended you? Then, to honor those relationships and "Christ in them" take the opportunity to say "I love you and I've made the decision to leave."

In my church back in Evanston, Illinois, we had a tradition of "separation letters." These letters of personal affirmation forced us to acknowledge leaving. To speak to those around us of the value of relationships that now would change - even if we said, "of course we'll still get together."

Sometimes these letters included confession and repentance. They were written in "I" statements - and were not an opportunity to tell people what they'd done wrong....NEVER to say "I'm sorry you feel hurt" or "I hope you can work out these problems, but I must leave."

Those words are for others to speak for themselves about their own actions or choices (or maybe they won't or just can't speak them....now or ever...Remember Jesus saying, "what is that to you? You follow me.")

Is it scary to stand up in front of the church or write a short, loving note to be read by the pastor one Sunday morning? Absolutely! But, refusing that spirit of offense and disunity requires that WE take the risk of loving. It demands that we preserve the unity of the spirit even when we are leaving a church for difficult, often hurtful reasons.

And, only if God tells you to go then you must go. (My sisters, are you leaving though God hasn't told you to go? That's for another time) But, BLESS, not curse. Criticism and judgement and complaining words can be open doors to the enemy. Blessing silences the enemy and drives him away.

So, go in peace. In blessing. Not in secret. The relationships we have in our churches are beautiful and important. They deserve better than slipping out the back door.

I've broken my own "blog rule" that this blog is for resources and information and sharing. I can only ask for grace and classify this posting under the final purpose of the blog, to build unity in the Body of Christ in Madison.

Blessings and blessings on all of you,

Julia

PS Pray for Heidi Baker in Mozambique. She's ill with a life-threatening, antibiotic resistant staph infection.

2005-09-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

House of Prayer....Open the House and Come on In

Dear Sisters,

The madison House of Prayer has set a two week open house. It's time to visit and get a sense of the calling and ministry of this gathering place of intercession and worship.

the heart of the House of Prayer is intercession - calling pray-ers to stand in the gap in warfare and intercession prayer for the city of Madison, our people, churches, and region. Another focus is worship. God inhabits the praise of His people. worship is not only honoring our Father and King, but it is also intercession and warfare.

Check out the details at: www.houseofprayerforthenationsmadison.org

that's house of prayer for the nations madison.....without spaces between the words.

Enjoy! See you on the walls!

Julia

PS Please pray for the Madison men's Prayer Summit. Only ten men have signed up. The heart of the Prayer Summit ministry is to bring renewal and revival through unity in the Church, community of believers, honest repentance...all growing out of intimate, loving worship of the Father. What men couldn't use that! Pray that God will nudge the men who need to be there. The Body of Christ needs on-fire, renewed men.

2005-09-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

Is anyone in Madison involved in ministry to women and men in prostitution?

I just got news that in april of 2006 the International Christian Conference on Prostitution is being held at Green Lake Christian Conference Center. Dan Allender will be speaking He's a writer, therapist, seminary professor I respect. Lauran Bethell will also be speaking. She's been involved in ministry to people in prostitution since 1987. Now, she's a consultant encouraging and facilitating Christ-based ministries addressing the exploitation of women and children.

Think we don't have prostitution in Madison? Think again. Take a drive up E. Wash by the Red Letter News.

Call 1 800 558 8896 for information

Pray that someone's heart would be pricked by the need and woundedness of women and men who sell their bodies. Jesus loved prostitutes. He looked into the broken heart of one such woman and said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go, beloved, and sin no more."

Pass this on to someone you know who has a heart for the broken and hurting.

Praying,
Julia

PS you may notice some comments on this blog that don't belong there. I don't know how to exclude those "let me sell you viagra" intrusions. My apologies - I'm a bit cyber-challenged. Will ask my adopted heart-son Alex who mercifully takes care of my computer glitches and never complains if I cry or accidently delete things!

2005-09-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

Sisters in Christ,

I just received news and ask you to join me in prayer.

Beverly Hartberg, the director of Family Ministry for the Madison Catholic Diocese was leading a Marriage Enrichment retreat when she and her husband received news that their son had collapsed and died at his home in Colorado.

Please pray for Beverly. She is a wise, kind, beautiful sister in Christ. She pours herself out for ministries to families and women. This is such a tragedy.

God is waking us up, 24/7

God seems to be lighting fires for prayer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. At least three settings in Madison will host 24- 7 Prayer in the next month(s)

These committed times of prayer are very powerful. Last year when my congregation was privileged to host 24/7 prayer during Lent we learned afterward that the numbers of sexual and physical assaults in the University dorms in our area were drastically reduced. And, the 24/7 prayer was held during a time - the end of winter, when those numbers had been high in the past.

October 12 through November 22nd, college students from IV, YWAM, and other campus groups will host a 24/7 Prayer time at Faith Community Bible Church, 3 N. Park Street. Not just for students, but God put the spark in their hearts and they responded.
Call 225 8484 for details.

Fountain of Life Church is also setting aside time for concerted prayer 24-7.

And, the Madison House of Prayer on the east side is acting deliberately on God's calling to establish a 24/7 "Home" for intercession and worship honoring our Lord in Madison.

The special beauty of this is clarity of vision - intercession on behalf of our city and people. The House of Prayer is cross-denominational, cross-congregations, cross-age, cross-whatever barriers satan has used to divide the Body of Christ. I believe there is great power in the spirit realm when we refuse to be divided and come together to pray and worship.

A few details from the House of Prayer: (emphasis is mine)
"We will begin our weekly prayer meetings on Monday evening, October 10, 7pm to 9pm, in the House of Prayer for All Nations, 1714 Eagan Road, in the Princeton Club Court.

This is part of a planned two week OPEN HOUSE at the new House of Prayer for All Nations. You'll be hearing more about the OPEN HOUSE in the days to come. This new facility is truly a remarkable gift to the churches in Madison. And we believe it is the best place for members of every church to gather for prayer.Every week we will focus on a different neighborhood or strategic prayer theme as we faithfully pray through the recently released Madison Strategic Prayer Guide. The first 7 days of prayer will be prayers of REPENTANCE! Come with hearts prepared for this.

For more details:The House of Prayer for All Nations1714 Eagan Road, Madison WI 53704

MadisonHouseofPrayer.org info@madisonhouseofprayer.org

This is the way it is - enormous sorrow for and with my friend and sister Beverly and her family walking right beside tremendous joy because people are responding to God's call to prayer.

Hold on to your hearts, sisters,

God is on the move

2005-09-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

Sisters,

Happy Saturday...does this weather stink or what!

Well, stinky weather or not, I've got a book to recommend.

Dr. Dan Allender (president of Mars Hill theological Seminary in Seattle and author of a number of excellent books) has a new book "to be Told."

This interesting book addresses the need we all have to share our stories. HOwever, because we're Christians (and women) we're often vulnerable to the "look good and be really positive" perspective. We don't really know or acknowlege our own, true stories.

We often want to go directly from "hard times happened" to "forgiven and the sky is blue" without passing through the difficult places of grieving, feeling, admitting hurt, or working our hearts toward forgiveness.

Allender encourages people to do the real, honest work of asking God "What is my real story?...My true story?" Then, he says, we will experience healing and understanding and victory when we tell our true stories and when we hear from each other.

He says, "we flinch at the idea of asking those tough questions because we know that if we ask, the answers will change us. We will be exposed as [emotional and spiritual] orphans."

He speaks of experiences that orphan us (when we're abandoned by those who should have loved us). Experiences that make us strangers (when we're betrayed). And experiences that make us a 'widow' (when we are shamed by others' judgement or abuse). He calls us out of the
closet of fear into healing - discovering, acknowleging, and sharing our true stories.

I'm intrigued by the idea of gathering groups of women around Madison to minister healing to each other by sharing and hearing one another's stories.
Anyone interested?

The book is at the Family Christian Store (amazed me...as most of the books I want don't seem to be on their buying list).

Bless you all
Julia

PS Please pray for my midwife friend Joy who is spending the next two weeks providing prenatal and mom-baby care for refugees in Louisiana shelters. Evidently a baby was born yesterday on an escalator in one of these shelters. Miles to go before we sleep, it seems.

2005-09-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

Wow. What a weekend!

The Madison Women in Ministry Leadership Prayer Summit was amazing. Here's an insight from the Summit:

When we worship, we not only love our Beloved, but we come into His presence.

In His presence, He shows us himself - who He is. How beautiful and Holy and kind.
When we see and experience Him, we also see ourselves, our sin, and brokenness in contrast.

Seeing our sin and brokenness brings us to a place of repentance and humility.

Genuine humility and repentance brings us to a place of intimacy with Jesus and unity with each other. When we confess our sins, one to another, we have the privilege of being witnesses to that "broken and contrite heart" that God so loves. We are drawn into unity with each other just as Jesus draws the contrite heart into intimacy with Himself.

In unity and intimacy, we find community - that interdependence and love between believers that binds us together. It is beautiful to the Lord.

Out of community comes impact in the world.

Now, in our churches, we want impact. So, we start there. We set up committees and programs and make plans. When impact doesn't happen, we're disappointed. After all, didn't we pray? Didn't we try to do good? To apply what we know God values and loves?

Instead of beginning with impact, at the Prayer Summit we learned the wisdom of beginning with worship. Worship, worship and more worship. Our concern being only to worship our glorious God and come into His presence.

We trust Him to convict of sin and bring us to humility.
We trust Him to draw us into intimacy and to create unity in the Body
We trust Him to mold us into a community of love, mutual care, and reaching out to others.
And finally, we wait for Him to bring impact from the love, mutual care, and reaching out.

This has changed my vision of ministry.

I offer it to you, sisters. Bring this model to the Lord and see if He has anything to show you.

Love to you all,

Julia

PS: Please pray for the 27 couples who completed the Retrouvaille weekend. This may be the beginning of new life for these marriages and family. God is on the move!

2005-09-13T09:24:00.001-07:00

Tuesday. The anniversary of September 11 has passed, with our nation still reeling from the hurricanes on the Gulf coast.

In this world, you will have tribulation, (struggle, difficulty and challenge.) But, be of good cheer because I have overcome the world.

Some Prayer needs for the top of your list:

Pray for the women's Prayer Summit this weekend. The vision of Prayer Summits is: coming into the presence of God brings healing. Healing in the Body brings renewal in the church. Renewal in the church brings revival in the land.
Please pray for the 25 women in ministry leadership from Madison attending this weekend's prayer summit.

Pray also, please, for the Retrouvaille weekend. About 30 couples struggling to keep their marriages together are taking the risk of facing themselves and the pain of their marriages through the Retrouvaille program. These are brave, hurting, frightened people who desperately want their marriages to be a source of joy instead of pain.

Please pray.

Finally, some useful "stuff" for the Body at large:

CBS - coed, community-wide bible study launches...
A note from Fred Grossenbach of Jericho Project:

For those of you who have expressed an interest in participating in a Community Bible Study in Madison, I have good news! We will be holding our first Introductory Pre-CBS class on Monday September 26 at Asbury United Methodist Church, 6101 University Avenue, from 7-8:30pm.

Please feel free to invite people who might be interested in participating in this class. If you have any questions, reply to this email or call me at 238-5220. Finally and always, please keep this class in your prayers for God's presence, protection, and direction in the days and months ahead. Thanks, and we hope to see you on the 26th.

This study is perfect for outreach. Bring that neighbor who is seeking but turned off by "church."
Or that young Christian who needs some good foundation-laying.

Pray. HE overcame the world. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb, the word of our testimony, and our willingness to choose not to love our own lives - even if it means death.

God is good all the time,

Julia

2005-09-11T06:49:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday! Every week my heart jumps and dances and sings to think that I get to worship with my church family. I love to think that all over the world people are worshiping - telling God how wonderful and kind and beautiful and holy He is. Telling Him how grateful we are to belong to him and be loved by him. Telling each other not to be discouraged, that God always ALWAYS has a way. IS the way. Declaring in the heavens that our God reigns. That He will be and is victorious. That mercy triumphs and the blood of Jesus is strong enough to break down every stronghold!

I haven't introduced Vicki Thorn to you all. Vicki is director of the Milwaukee-based National Post Abortion Reconciliation and Healing Ministry. This ministry offers healing, support, and information for people wounded by abortion. Vicki speaks about the effects of abortion on people, marriages, families, institutions, and our world. I'll get the word out next time she visits Madison.

This week she's in Mexico City speaking at a conference. She'll also be helping people in ministry learn how to support and encourage women and men who need to deal with their abortion experience through the painful, essential process of confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Please pray for this Mexico City workshop.

Bless you and your church families as you worship together today.

Julia
PS: please pass this on - if you want to tell friends and Christian women you know about this site, just tell them to check out my website (a friend said not to use the word blog, since many of us have never heard of such a thing).

www.madisonchristianwomen.blogspot.com

Thanks! I believe this "website" can be a way of communicating and building unity in the Body of Christ. It will only work if people like you pass it on to other people and they, in turn, pass it on again.

2005-09-09T06:07:00.000-07:00

Good morning - even if you're reading this at midnight tonight.

Edgewood College Theatre Department is offering a fun and family-friendly performance of a musical version of The Cottonpatch Gospels.

Some of you are old enough to remember Clarence Jordan's The Cottonpatch Gospels, a telling of the gospel story as if it happened in the rural, pre-Civil Rights era past. This book was and is a powerful image (I'll never quite forget the Right Reverend Somebody who passed the Catholic traveling salesman beaten by robbers and left to die on some rural road. He glanced at the poor guy and passed by whistling, Brighten the Corner Where you Are. Maybe he'd call the county sheriff when he reached the church office. After all, he had to pray before the deacon's meeting that afternoon!

Dates for the performance are:

7:30 pm on 9/9-10 & 16-17 and 4 pm, 9/10, Regina Theatre, Edgewood College. Tickets are $7. (Box Office: 663-6710).

Clarence Jordan was close friends with Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity. Jordan lived in Christian community on Koinonia Farm in Americus, Georgia and was a strong, insistent voice for racial justice, integration, and reconciliation.

The show would be a wonderful evening with friends or night to take the kids and have lots to talk about afterward.
Or, kidnap your husband and take him out for a date night.

Peace to you all,

Julia

2005-09-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

Sisters in Christ,

I know you've all been praying for people, needs, and spiritual protection for the areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

My own sister and brother in law live about 30 miles north of New Orleans. My sister directs nursing services in an area hospital - formerly a rehab center, now fast becoming a staging ground for medical care for many, many more patients than this specialty hospital was built to hold. She reports that people are increasingly ill with environmental illnesses, dehydration, and serious infections.

Brian Miller, director of Habitat for Humanity in Dane County, shares that Wisconsin families can make temporary housing available for hurricane refugees by logging in at the Hurricane Housing website:

www.hurricanehousing.org

You can actually sign up to provide emergency or longer-term housing via this website.

Also, for those with time and energy to give, the Dane County Red Cross is seeking volunteers willing and able to serve for 3 weeks. The Red Cross covers all expenses. They need people in many areas of service.

Friends, even if we are here and those thousands of hurting, frightened people are there, remember that we can pray. God is there. He hasn't forgotten them.

Join our spirits with His for the healing of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Let's agree with what God says. He is the rock that is higher. The hiding place. The high tower and safety.

I'm praying that God would wash New Orleans clean of evil, demonic powers, and love of sin that have defined New Orleans for so long. Just as the polluted water is being washed out of the city. And, that our Father would raise up those people in New Orleans who love Him - that they and He would define New Orleans. That New Orleans would no longer be called desolate, but "My delight is in her." (Isaiah 62)

Please pass this blog address on to friends and sisters in Christ.
Remember, the purpose of this blog is to share resources, information, and encouragement.
Please feel free to send information to me and I'll post it.

Bless you all. Pray on!

Julia

2005-09-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

I just returned from Michigan, taking and settling our daughter in for her sophomore year in college.

Of course, the entire trip was filled with news of the disaster in Louisiana and Mississippi and other places along the Gulf Coast.

I'm aware, as are many, of the spiritual darkness of New Orleans. I've been praying that God would wash the city clean. That what the enemy intended to bring death and discouragement, especially to the poor, GOD would use for His glory and to break the back of witchcraft and evil in that city.

My sister and brother in law live four miles north of Lake Ponchartrain. We heard they are safe. Their house is "standing" - and others in their neighborhood are totally gone or in ruins. This is an overwhelming situation for them.

Yet, my sister and brother in law have cars, money, and resources. Their reality is difficult, but they aren't desperately wondering where they're going to get water or whether there will be a cholera outbreak outside the Civic Center.

We can't get water to stranded people. We can't respond to the desperation and anger in their voices on tv and radio. We may feel helpless. BUT WE AREN'T

My friend Miriam Johnson sent the following to our Faith Community Family. The present-day language of the Message brings The Word home in a powerful way.

I share it with you. God's Word is one of the weapons we have in spiritual warfare. So, sisters, pick up your weapons and use them.

Dear Family, This morning was the first time it hit me of the devastation that's happening in our coastal regions (Mississippi and Louisiana in particular). I couldn't help but cry and cry again as I watch my people, our people, struggle to survive.

Words like refugee and looters, pregnant mothers and mothers with their babies and no milk to give them, the elderly and disabled and those stranded on tops of buildings, it's all so hard for me to accept in America. Minutes have turned into hours and hours have turned into days without basic needs being met. Where will they go? Who will help them? Who will hear their cry?

This weekend we?re going home (Rockford) to our annual family reunion, and yet it all seems so somber, as I just want to open our front door to New Orleans and say "come in, rest, eat, drink, sleep, live here with us. Let us wash your feet."

But they are there and I am here. So I must look to God to bridge the gaps that separate us.

As you are led, please pray for God's mercy on the refugees and wisdom for our leaders and volunteers who are racing with time to bring relief quickly.

Lord, I pray your Word over those hit by hurricane Katrina.

"The poor and homeless are desperate for water, their tongues parched and no water to be found. But I'm there to be found, I'm there for them, and I, God of Israel, will not leave them thirsty. I'll open up rivers for them on the barren hills, spout fountains in the valleys. I'll turn the baked-clay badlands into a cool pond, the waterless waste into splashing creeks.

For even if the mountains walk away and the hills fall to pieces, My love won't walk away from you, my covenant commitment of peace won't fall apart." The GOD who has compassion on you says so.

"Afflicted city, storm-battered, unpitied: I'm about to rebuild you with stones of turquoise, lay your foundations with sapphires, construct your towers with rubies, your gates with jewels, and all your walls with precious stones. All your children will have GOD for their teacher-- what a mentor for your children! You'll be built solid, grounded in righteousness, far from any trouble--nothing to fear! Far from terror--it won't even come close! If anyone attacks you, don't for a moment suppose that I sent them, and if any should attack, nothing will come of it. This is what GOD's servants can expect. I'll see to it that everything works out for the best." GOD's Decree.
Isaiah 41:17-18; 54:10-15, 17

Peace & Love,Miriam & (Raymond)

2005-08-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,
This is an important precursor to the Silent No More event planned for January of 2006.

Silent No More is an important event where women break the barriers of silence and speak honestly about their experience with abortion. For many it is the first time they've been able to say, "I regret my abortion." or "my choice has resulted in hurt for me and those I love."

Please read the following. Perhaps God will use this to open a door to healing for you or someone you love.

Pray blessings over this ministry. It's a front line in the battle for life.

A note from Leslie Graves, dear sister and warrior on the abortion front:

We are planning a "Silent No More Awareness" event in Madison on Thursday, January 19, 2006, in the early afternoon.

This fall, Wisconsin Silent No More is sponsoring a series of three "Telling Others' Discernment mini-retreats in Madison, Beloit and Wisconsin. If you have had an abortion in your past, we encourage you to attend one of these mini-retreats, as a way to get to know others and to start on the path to discernment about speaking about your experience.

If you have not had an abortion in your past but would like to participate in building "Silent No More" in a variety of ways, please let me know of your interest. We have lots of ways to use your gifts.

The Discernment Mini-Retreats provide a confidential environment of prayer and mutual support. Structured exercises at the mini-retreats will allow those attending to discover more about themselves. People who have never shared their abortion experience will have an opportunity to hear from those who have. Attending a Discernment Mini-Retreat does not imply any obligation to participate in the Silent No More Awareness Campaign.

If you have struggled with telling those close to you about an abortion experience,·
If you have shared about your abortion with people close to you and need a supportive environment in which to process that experience.
If you have spoken in public about your experience with abortion (in a church, in a media interview, in a Silent No More Awareness event, etc.) and would appreciate a safe environment to talk about what that has been like for you...

we strongly believe you will enjoy and benefit from attending one of these mini-retreats.

We know that the decision about how, when and whether you will tell significant others in your life about a prior abortion experience can be confusing and complicated. Hearing about the experiences of others, and thinking through some of the challenges and rewards with others who have had similar struggles, is very helpful. Ultimately, we believe that when we listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, we are able to make a decision that leads to lasting inner peace and resolution. This is our prayer for you!

Times, dates, locations and contact persons: Madison, Wisconsin. Thursday, September 15 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Contact: Leslie Graves at LBGraves@aol.com, (608) 588-7834 or (608) 279-6239. Location: The Journey Church at the corner of Monroe and Regent Streets in Madison. A follow-up gathering will take place in the same location on Thursday, November 10.

5. Once you register, you will be sent a map, more information about the event, and some materials. Suggested donation: You are welcome to attend for free. However, if you are able to donate $10.00 for materials (including a book by Jennifer O'Neill, a national spokeswoman for Silent No More), we and our limited funds would appreciate your consideration. If you have any questions, please direct them to one of the site coordinators (Terri White, Pattie Meixelsperger, or Leslie Graves). We very much look forward to hearing from you and to meeting you. See Silent No More Awareness online at http://www.silentnomoreawareness.org.

If you would like more details, please email me at LBGraves@aol.com or call me at (608) 588-7834. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Blessings and peace, Leslie GravesP.O. Box 279Spring Green, WI 53588(608) 588-7834 (home)(608) 279-6239 (cell)

2005-08-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Madison Women of God,

With fall sort of lurking on the horizon, I wonder if more people will begin to read this blog.
My hope is that we - sisters in Christ and women in the Body of Christ - can use this blog to network like crazy. Passing news and resources and ideas around. Letting others know about the wonderful works of the Spirit in our midst. Sharing needs and prayer and words of appreciation.

Would you take a moment to answer these questions?
What do you see as the greatest needs among women in your church or circle of sisters?

What do you need to do the ministry and work God has put before you?

Again, I see this blog as a source of support, networking, and encouragement. Your input will help.

Finally, passing the address for this blog on to friends is critical to that Networking-connecting part of the vision. I've heard from a number of women who said, "What's a blog?" and "I don't understand how this works."

A blog is no different than a website on the internet. If you can order books from Amazon.com or check out the sales a J. Jill you can find a blog.

Thanks for your help. I hope this blog has been of help to you, too.

love to all,
Julia

PS: check past posts about the Prayer Summit and Retrouvaille. Both are hosting weekend programs mid-September. Need time to pray and worship? The Prayer Summit may be just what you're seeking. Is your marriage or the marriage of someone you love in trouble? Retrouvaille (retro-vi) has been a place of healing and turn-around for many marriages.

Contact? shirleyd@tds.net (Prayer Summit) and www.madisonarearetrouvaille.org or 608 249 2377 (Retrouvaille).

2005-08-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

Calling the Intercessors:

Dear Sisters, I'm calling you all to prayer. In the past week I've heard a number of people speaking about pain and conflict happening in local congregations. I believe there is a demonic spirit of offense coming against these churches.

Please pray for God's spirit of forgiveness and unity. Please bless every church body the Lord brings to your mind with the godly "rain" of forgiveness and unity. Pray for unity in your church and for at least one other church body. Pray for forgiveness where offense has been felt and unity where the enemy has tried to turn offense into division and broken relationships.

God can enable us to give up our right to offense. Even when another's behavior or actions are hurtful and feeling offended isn't sinful, we can still choose to give up our right to offense and choose forgiveness and unity instead.

We can do this in marriage. We can do this in our churches. We can do this in every relationship.
In so doing, we can bring glory to Jesus and turn the enemy's tool of offense on its head!

Pray, sisters. God's way is unity and forgiveness.

Bless you,
Julia

2005-08-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

St. John's Parish in Waunakee has been home to an Alpha Course for the past two months.
This is unusual in a Catholic church. A group of parishoners took the Alpha course led by friends in the community and discovered a whole new vision for their Christian lives! They, in turn, brought Alpha "home" to their church.

This weekend the participants in the Alpha Course are attending a Saturday/Sunday retreat. During this time, they'll be learning about the Holy Spirit and will be encouraged to take decisive steps to committment to Christ if they haven't done so.

Would you join me in praying that this weekend will bear fruit for the Kingdom?

Please pray for Ken and Nancy Bergstrom, the course leaders. For the "veterans" who brought Alpha to their church as a gift - and then brought their friends to Alpha - to share Jesus with them.

I'm praying that the Alpha Course will result in renewal and revival in St. John's Church! For people to come to Christ for the first time and others to discover new vision and purpose in their journey with Jesus.

Bless you all. Thank you for praying,

Julia

2005-08-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Sisters In Christ,

Calling all pray-ers. This is a time to be in special prayer for the Elizabeth House. As the time approaches to open the new house, the enemy wants to bring chaos and harm to the staff, ministry, and residents. Our joy and privilege is to cover them with prayer.

Please pray for the safety of these women, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. For the residents-especially those women who will experience the transition from the present location to the new house. Please pray for spiritual protection for this ministry and everyone involved.

Finally, please pray for remaining financial needs and for the Board's work and leadership.

This ministry is powerful and critical in the "natural." In the spirit realm, it is a stronghold-breaker. Abortion, abandonment of women and children, and father loss are all demonic, spiritual strongholds. The Elizabeth House is making a stand in the spirit realm against all these.

As women, it's our joy and privilege to stand with this ministry.

Pray On, Sisters!

Julia

2005-08-13T15:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
What do the women in your church need? Support? Encouragement? Jobs? Alternative employment? Child care? Time for moms of little kids? Groups for bible study or prayer or just hanging out? Ministry opportunities? Fewer ministry opportunities? Time with friends? Vision? Retreat and quiet time? Practical support for single moms? Widows and elder women with unique needs?

A number of gifted women in this city carry a vision for ministry to, with, and for women.

Please share your thoughts about the needs of women in your church.

Julia

2005-08-11T21:53:00.000-07:00

This blog began in July. Periodically I will restate the purpose and vision so newcomers will understand what's happening.

Madison Christian Women is a communication and sharing tool for Christians in the greater Madison area. The focus is on events, resources, programs, and ideas of interest to the Body of Christ, especially women.

It's not a forum for discussion of issues, theology, or venting opinions. It is an opportunity to share what's happening in your congregation, ministry, group, or circle of influence that might benefit the broader Body of Christ.

Please help the communication loop grow and expand by passing this blog address on to friends and interested folks.

Thank you,

Julia

2005-08-10T09:31:00.000-07:00

Attention all Praying Folks:

Please read and pass on this information about a prayer training. This is the third project or program or group gathering I've heard about in the past month in Madison focused on gathering or training mature, intentional prayer warriors. I'd say God is on the move to raise up pray-ers. To wake the sleeping intercessors. To start calling out warriors in prayer. Is He calling You?

So here's the scoop:
Dave Konkol, director of Greater Madison Area Prayer Network, is planning a 9 month course on prayer. I absolutely affirm Dave as a leader, teacher, and a front line warrior in Madison.

For whom? anyone interested in digging their "prayer well" deeper
Where? House of Prayer on Madison's east side

Details:

Prayer Internship Course
at the House of Prayer

2005-2006 School Year

A 9-month course on Prayer will be starting up in the House of Prayer on September 6. And we want you to begin thinking now about applying.

Who is this for? This Prayer Internship Course will be open to the Madison Christian community. It is also a perfect next step for those who want to grow in their knowledge and practice of Prayer.

If you’re interested or want to ask questions please call Dave at 232-9663 or 332-5664 or email me at konkol@madisonhouseofprayer.org

Classes will be on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30 till Noon. There’ll be a field trip to the International House of Prayer in Kansas City at the end of October, and winter and spring breaks.

This is a place where you’ll be:

Provoked to understand the importance of learning and practicing the Spiritual Disciplines.

Released to engage in times of world-changing corporate worship and intercession.

Affirmed in your desire to be confident and effective in prayer.

Yielding to the leading of the Holy Spirit in guiding you as you grow to become the unique person you’ve been created to be.

In the fall, we’ll be studying the prophetic, spiritual disciplines, healing and deliverance, spiritual warfare, intercession, Theophostic prayer, Harp & Bowl intercessory worship, and intimacy with God.

In the winter/spring we’ll be putting what we’ve learned into practice. We’ll be engaging in prayer ministry for individuals, churches, and organizations in the Madison area. We’ll be engaging in strategic prayer for our region.

The Cost $$$$: We are working on the tuition costs at this time and are working to keep these to a minimum for you.

If you express an interest we’ll keep you informed of the details.

Please pray about whether this is your time for such a course as this!

Blessings,

Dave Konkol, HOP Leadership Team

Comments from former Prayer Internship students

My heart is larger and I know God more. I consider myself a pray-er now!
***
At the beginning of the year I felt so incompetent, inexperienced and untested in prayer, but God broke in on me, calling me our as a pray-er and as an intercessor and telling me that that is my role. I’ve embraced it and have been changed.
***
All of the material affirmed a desire to pray in faith. Testimony after testimony, truth after truth, has built my confidence and faith in prayer.
***
This class was so amazing. It was exactly what God ordered for me.
***
By God’s grace I’m grasping more that this is about a one-on-one relationship with God. This year has softened my real heart for God; the religious jacket is becoming too tight to wear.
***
I definitely grew in confidence in hearing from God.
***
The PI was a helpful learning environment to show me what a lifestyle of prayer can look like.
***
I think the strangest and hardest thing about this class is that prayer is so tender and intimate and must be led by God. Our time together is so much more alive when we are led together by Him.
***
The Harp & Bowl is a place I know I belong.
***
I feel I am at the beginning of a much more intense prayer life with Jesus. I am just now beginning to understand that he is the Bridegroom and I am His Bride.
***
I absolutely loved this class. I loved surrendering my restlessness to my Lord. I loved surrendering my ego to Jesus.

2005-08-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Greetings Everyone,

I want to share about a resource that's worth its weight in platinum: Retrouvaille. Pronounced retro-vi, this Christian, couple to couple ministry offers encouragement and sound communication tools to couples struggling in their marriages.

The next Retrouvaille program in Madison begins with a weekend, September 16-18. Weekends are held at the O'Connor Center in Madison. After the weekend, couples attend a series of follow up sessions addressing crucial issues like trust, sex, intimacy, forgiveness, understanding family of origin, etc.

Retrouvaille isn't counseling or therapy. No one is asked to share their deepest secrets or "air dirty laundry." Retrouvaille is hearing from other couples who have been in the pit of misery and, through Retrouvaille, have seen changes in their marriages.

Many couples attend Retrouvaille because things just aren't going well. Others are in serious trouble. Often, couples are separated or even divorced. Couples attend who have been married less than a year and more than 40 years. Every couple comes to Retrouvaille in great pain. The need to know there's hope. They aren't alone. That is God's mission for this ministry.

You may wonder whether any couples in your church really need Retrouvaille. The answer is YES. One of the enemy's tricks is to keep hurting couples hidden from view. Their pain kept secret. They feel ashamed and think everyone else is happy - they must be the only ones hurting so badly. That isolation increases the pain. People are afraid to say just how bad things are.

Retrouvaille couples want those hurting people to know they aren't alone.

The Madison Retrouvaille community is a wonderful group of couples who have fought for their marriages. Perhaps your marriage is in trouble. Perhaps you've been on your knees for the marriage of someone you love.

Run, don't walk to Retrouvaille! God has used this program to save many, many marriages.

For information:
Phone: 249-2377 (Madison Area Retrouvaille)
website: www.madisonarearetrouvaille.org
national website: www.retrouvaille.org
national phone: 1-800-470-2230 (this number will connect callers to the nearest Retrouvaille community).

Retrouvaille couples will gladly visit your church to share their testimony and encourage others to use the resource of Retrouvaille for their own marriages.

Intercessors, God may move you to add this Retrouvaille weekend to your prayer lists. God wants to save marriages.

Thanks for passing this information along.

Blessings - today would you join me in prayer for marriages and the people you know and love who are struggling?

love to all,
Julia

2005-08-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday - and God is good!

Dear friends, will you kindly pass this blog address to your circle of friends and fellowship? The purpose of this blog is to reach as many people, especially women, within the Body of Christ in Madison with resources, information, and sharing of value. I want to "reach" and encourage unity, but need your hands (and computers) to do so.

A friend, Kathy Emery, recently returned from a missions trip to Mexico with Todd Bentley and Fresh Fire Ministries. She shared about praying for people on the streets with a group of four women. They prayed for a woman deaf and unable to speak. God healed this woman. Kathy heard her speak and respond to sound for the first time in her life! She had the privilege of hearing this woman say her own name. My faith is nudged to a new level. I need to hear testimonies like this.

Kathy also shared details about Iris Ministries, a mission reaching out to orphaned children in Mozambique. Jesus comes for these children, and they are no longer orphaned, but heirs!

Kathy wrote:

This is an invitation to hear Ben & Brenda Peters, regional representatives for Iris Ministries (Heidi & Rolland Baker's Ministry) in Mozambique. They will be sharing about their experiences earlier this summer with the Bakers to the poor and orphans in Mozambique with miracles, healings, and the power of God. They will be sharing how you and your teens can go on a short-term missions trip with Iris Ministries in Mozambique.

Where: Grace Church, 416 2nd St., New Glarus, WI 53574

When: THIS Sunday & Monday, August 7-8, 7 p.m.

OR

Where: Tim & Peggy Jelle's house, 1330 Fritz Rd, Verona, WI 53593 (south of Verona in the country)When: Tuesday, August 9, 7 p.m.Phone: 424-6183Bring Lawn chairs in case you are outside.

I've heard Heidi Baker speak - in fact I attended a three day conference in Chicago mostly to hear her testimony. I wanted to sit under this woman's teaching and learn faith from her.
My expectations were met and my faith stretched and challenged.

Iris Ministries is a radical mission to poor and marginalized people. Don't go if you want your life and expectations to remain the same.

ONE MORE RESOURCE:

High Point Church is inviting any and all to share a "live simulcast" teaching by Beth Moore. October 7 and 8 at High Point. Cost: $30. Call Jessica Peckham at the church office: 836 3236, extension 127 for tickets. Space is limited so call asap if you want to hear Beth Moore's teaching live.

Friends at HPC said a study last winter/spring on spiritual freedom by Beth Moore was tremendously valuable. People were moved to seek healing and really did find new freedom as a result of the study. Beth Moore is a wise, insightful teacher of the Word.

Happy Saturday. Please pass this information on to anyone who might be interested.

Bless you all,
Julia

2005-08-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

Well, I returned from California - visited my daughter and husband (best son in law in the world), connected with daughter #2, and drove her to Berkeley where she's starting grad school. Saw 12 apartments in one day. I'd been praying for months that the Lord would care for her - at the same time, praying that God would move her heart to look to Him for her needs instead of to her own resources. God provided a wonderful place to live. And, Thank you Jesus, this Mom didn't have to leave her beloved daughter "camping" at a friend-of-a-friend's house without a permanent address! God is good.

Returned to find some actual comments on the blog!

If ya'll are as computer savvy as I am, a word of instruction might help anyone wondering how to get in on this seemingly one-sided conversation. At the end of each entry is a comment button. Simply click and enter your own comments.

To read others' comments, click the comment button and read on. Then, you can add your own if you like.

I'll copy and post some comments from time to time - like Amy Nelson's testimony about the upcoming Women's Prayer Summit - scheduled for Green Lake Conference Center September 14-17.

Amy wrote:

Show Original Post

Amy Nelson said...
Hello!First, thank you Jesus and Julia for this site. What a wonderful idea! I am very blessed by it. May God Bless you and protect you in this. Second, I am glad to be clued into how to post. I've tried several times to figure it out...so thank you for the tip in hitting the comment button!
Third, I enjoy hearing about what is going on in the community and what is out there for Christian women in one place. With time and the season of my life with young children, it is difficult to keep informed on every thing going on. Lastly, I wanted to post my comment on my experience at the Prayer Summit I attended in Wisconsin last February. I was very blessed to attend. One woman who was there summed it up best for me when she said that she has been to conferences where you talk ABOUT God, but not really WITH God. In the Prayer Summit I attended, there was a great move of the Holy Spirit across us corporately. What an amazing God we have. I was so blessed by the other women there. I am really looking forward to meeting other Christian Spirit-led women in the Madison area and making new connections. I hope and pray to have a new sense of unity of women in the Madison area. How exciting.God Bless, Amy Nelson
6:26 AM

Registration is still open for the Prayer Summit. Contact Shirley Diederich at shirleyd@tds.net
for registration details.

I agree with Amy. A Prayer Summit is a time WITH God, not just a time to talk or learn about God.

Any woman is welcome. The Summit especially supports, nurtures, and encourages women active in ministry leadership. If you are a woman in leadership in your congregation or ministry I encourage you to attend. If money is a problem, please go to your church and ask for support. This Prayer Summit is of such quality and importance that churches should regard attendance as an investment in their leadership. (humble opinion here).

This week, in addition to storming heaven for my kids, I found myself praying for the Madison Vineyard Church and other church plants like The Journey Community.

Take up the banner of prayer for our churches. In addition to concerted prayer for your own Body, I encourage every one of you to join me in prayer for another church - Ask the Lord which one. Pray blessings on their heads, in their hearts, and over their calling, leadership, ministry, and vision. Remember, just as two are better than one, each time we pray for others, we form a three-fold cord which is better still!

Happy Friday to you all. Pour out your hearts in worship before Him. What a privilege to live in a time like this!
Blessings,

Julia

2005-07-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

Tuesday in Hollywood. No kidding. It's not for nothin' that the place we're staying calls it's central courtyard "Babylon Court." I'm looking for Jesus. I know he's here right in the middle of this spiritual sewer.

Today, a question:
What do the women in your congregation need most today?

I'd like this blog to address those kinds of questions.

In the meantime - waiting for your responses - an introduction to someone and a bookstore you might enjoy.

A women-kind-of- bookstore. I drove past Invest in Yourself bookstore on University Avenue in Middleton for almost a year, thinking it was probably some New Age hooey sort of place.

Searching for a particular book on learning to make decisions, I stopped in and met the owner, Colleen. A wonderful, visionary, down-to-earth woman.

Colleen (gosh, I hope I remember her name correctly) started this bookstore with a vision to reach people - particularly women - searching for their own vision and personal renewal.
She carries books like Jesus, CEO and The Path (Laurie Beth Jones...a Christian writer whose books I admire and have appreciated). she carries excellent titles for people interested in startig their own businesses, taking an honest look at their behavior patterns, and making changes in their lives.

there's a little New Age hooey mixed in, but I just ignore it. Last week I bought Never Be Late Again (yeah, yeah, those of you who know me are thinking, We'll see....) I really benefitted from How to Make Better Decisions, especially the good counsel about replacing negative self-talk with daily affirmations of areas of growth and desired growth.

PLUS, I love the women I meet there - colleen first and foremost. What a delightful person. I'm thinking about visiting a book-talk group there, just to meet and build relationships with these seeking women who really need Jesus and don't know it.

Like I said, it's a sort of for-women, by-women kind of place. Turn on your hooey-filter and stop by - you'll meet some lovely women and maybe find a good book.

BTW: you can comment on these posts. just click the comment button.
Frankly, I'm wondering if the prediction is true that a bunch of men have given me that women don't use the computer this way and won't even look at this blog.

Let me know you're out there.

Blessings,
Julia

2005-07-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

God is on the move!

Yesterday I met Katherine, pastor of Madison Vineyard Church. Never heard of it? That's understandable because this is a church plant smack in the middle of the Monroe Street neighborhood.

They're holding an Alpha Course right now with a group of very new believers and a couple, Katherine's co-workers at her tentmaking job, who don't know Jesus and have been searching for love in all the wrong places.

God seems to be on the move in this neighborhood. To my spiritual senses, as the Monroe Street area becomes more and more high-end, it has become darker and more oppressive. Yet, in the past year or so, the Vineyard people have begun digging a spiritual well there. Also, The Journey coffeehouse (corner of Monroe and Regent in the Urban Pizza location) has arrived.

Coffee with girlfriends is high on my list of women-type equivalents of guys playing golf or ice fishing. Next time you meet your sisters for coffee and talk, don't miss The Journey Cafe. Good coffee. Really sweet, young baristas. This is the financial and outreach plan for another young church (The Journey, of course) with a vision for reaching students in the Monroe/Vilas neighborhood.

The coffee is good. Warning, however, avoid the 7 layer bars. Retro chocolate. Comfort food. Like that dog your college-age kid adopted...then found the landlord didn't allow pets....7 layer bars remain behind at the end of the summer.

www.journeycommunity.com
www.vineyardmadison.org

This morning I'm folding laundry and praying for the new folks in town. Maybe you've heard in the past that Dwight L. Moody called Madison "the evangelists' graveyard." Some church plants have gone under the enemy's sword in this city.

Today, I'm saying, "No more." Greater is He who is in us - in these new church-plants shining light into our city and region - than the enemy who is thrashing his last.

Lord Jesus, bless the Vineyard church. Bless them with the lost. With folks who made their way to the Monroe Street neighborhood seeking culture and arts and beauty, but now realize their hearts are still empty.

Father, bless The Journey people. Lord, send those confused, searching college kids looking for something that makes sense to their door.

More, Lord! Bring 'em all in!

Blessed

2005-07-22T05:17:00.000-07:00

Friday at last!

Thinking this morning about a friend's comment that she wishes every congregation would choose another congregation to regularly bring before the Lord's throne in prayer, and actively bless with words, intercession, and acts of love.

Jesus wanted us to be One, as He and His Father are one. In unity. Yet, I find myself often speaking of people or churches or denominations with words like, "If they would only..." or "they need....."or "that church is just that way....."

Recently the Holy Spirit said to me, "Bless, not curse. Not one critical word." That wasn't a surprise to me. I often speak or act with a critical attitude. I convince myself I'm just being "honest." Honest or not, Holy Spirit said not one critical word. The shock was/is when I realized I don't know how to talk without saying critical words! What would happen if Christians refused to speak critical words. If we all either blessed or remained silent - speaking only to the Father about whatever situation is a matter of concern.

Dr. Paul Cox (www.aslansplace.com) in his teaching series Tipping the Scales, said that godly, honest admonition is "face to face." Criticism is "third party." Even if a critical comment is accurate, at best, it doesn't follow the pattern of Matthew 18 and, at worst, it's gossip. It's also disunity. Paul said criticism gives the enemy a tool to curse the person about whom it is spoken. It also creates an open door to the enemy in the life of the speaker. I'm convicted.

I tried to think of a single instance when Jesus spoke critically about someone to someone else.

The Jericho Project and Greater Madison Area Prayer Network are ministries committed to unity in the Body of Christ. These ministries work intentionally to bring people together from different churches, traditions,and areas of the city.

Find out more at www.thejerichoproject.org

Today, please pray for unity in the body of Christ in Madison. Today, I'm praying for and blessing High Point Church. Join me. Join our Father in His desire to bless High Point with vision. With new souls coming to Christ. With love for each other. With unity and peace and passion for Jesus.

Further up and further in,
Julia

2005-07-21T10:26:00.000-07:00

Good morning, ya'll. Welcome to Madison Christian Women Blog,One of the features of this blog will be mini-articles about ministries in our region.Here's the first:Rachel's Vineyard is a Christian, retreat-format program for the purpose of bringing forgiveness and healing to people wounded by abortion.

Most retreatants are women, though some men and couples participate and benefit from the program. Sometimes people who minister to women or families affected by abortion attend to learn. Those people don't "observe" but participate in their own hearts and minds as well.Rachel's Vineyard retreats are very heart-centered and biblically based.

I attended a retreat last year and was blessed and deeply moved. The retreat format and content truly breaks the walls of isolation and the lie that people hurt by their own or others' abortions are alone or have committed an unforgiveable sin. The retreat starts and ends at every point with the grace of God and the beautiful, powerful, saving love of Jesus our savior.

The Madison Rachel's Vineyard ministry is part of the Catholic diocese. Perhaps you wonder if Protestants will feel comfortable. I can only speak for my own experience that I found this program absolutely biblically-founded. The retreat team included Catholic and Protestant women. I appreciated the love of the retreat team and the message, at every point, that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I saw people welcomed and loved. I observed some Catholic and Protestant women receive healing just because the priest, Fr. Ron Rank, was so genuine, honest, and spoke so personally about our forgiving Father God.

The Janesville Rachel's Vineyard retreats are multi-denominational, with Protestant roots. The retreats themselves are substantially the same. I haven't observed a retreat led by the Janesville folks, but heard positive feedback from a friend who attended.

For more information, read about Rachel's Vineyard at www.rachelsvineyard.org or contact the Madison coordinator, a godly, gentle, Christian sister at LBGraves@yahoo.com

Bless you all. Today, I encourage every visitor to pray for a church - not your own. Pray for healing among the people. For renewal in their congregation. For revival in the land!Blessings,Julia

2005-07-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

Conference Information

Thanks to Kathy Emery from Middleton.
These Iowa Ablaze folks are real workers - they organize conferences to feed the Body of Christ in the region.

Iowa Ablaze!Living Stones Fellowship Presents...Stand Firm World Ministrieswith Keith Miller August 4-7, 2005Registration: $25/person, $40/married coupleLimited SeatingGeneral Information:Schedule:7 pm Thursday, Aug 47 pm Friday, August 511 AM and 7 PM Saturday, August 610 AM Sunday, August 7No Child CareMotels: Best Western 641-472-2200Super 8 Motel 641-469-2000Please send registration fee to:Living Stones Fellowship1947 Hwy 1, Fairfield, IA 52556Information on Stand Firm World Ministries and Keith Miller:www.sfwm.org

2005-07-20T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone. I'm repeating the invitation and description of this blog so, for a few days, all newcomers will find the same welcome message.

Welcome! Madison Christian Women is a cross between a free, online newsletter, a place to share information, and a reflection on what's happening in the Body of Christ in Madison, Wisconsin and the region .Many posts will apply to studies, resources, ministries, opportunities, and vision for women.Some blogs are personal opinion pages. This one isn't. I want to receive and pass on information that will strengthen and support women and the broader Church of Jesus in our region.How does that happen? You send information folks would appreciate. I post it, if appropriate, on this blog. Then, you help spread the word by sending an email to your friends, church, bible study group or whatever. Tell your contacts that this blog is to get information, resources, and opportunities into the hands of Christians, especially women, in Madison and the region.
I invite you to contribute to this blog by sending an email to me at history@tds.net or by submitting comments on the blog itself. I will, as moderator, review and keep comments within the purpose and vision of the blog.

. What would you contribute? Perhaps, information about an event in your congregation, a speaker coming to the region, a book of great value, a support group, etcThis isn't a venue for debating theology or tossing out opinions. It's not a place for discussing politics, lobby efforts, the war in Iraq, or whether God is a Republican or Democrat. It is a place to share information and resources of benefit to the broader Body of Christ in Madison.

Welcome again. I look forward to hearing from you.
Julia

2005-07-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

A group has been meeting in Madison for a few weeks to study the latest book by Henry Cloud and John Townsend (of the Boundaries series). They've written an interesting book entitled,
Making Small Groups Work: What every Small Group Leader Needs to Know.

The women in the group all lead small groups of some sort. They report this book is full of good insight, information, and understanding of group process, how individuals fit in groups, how to envision and keep groups on track with that vision, etc etc.

A recommendation for anyone who leads small groups in your church or other setting.

2005-07-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome! Madison Christian Women is a cross between a free, online newsletter, a place to share information, and a reflection on what's happening in the Body of Christ in Madison, Wisconsin and the region .

Many posts will apply to studies, resources, ministries, opportunities, and vision for women.

Some blogs are personal opinion pages. This one isn't. I want to receive and pass on information that will strengthen and support women and the broader Church of Jesus in our region.

How does that happen? You send information folks would appreciate. I post it, if appropriate, on this blog. Then, you help spread the word by sending an email to your friends, church, bible study group or whatever. Tell your contacts that this blog is to get information, resources, and opportunities into the hands of Christians, especially women, in Madison and the region.

Here's the blog address: http://madisonchristianwomen.
I invite you to contribute to this blog by sending an email to me at history@tds.net. What would you contribute? Perhaps, information about an event in your congregation, a speaker coming to the region, a book of great value, a support group, etc

This isn't a venue for debating theology or tossing out opinions. It's not a place for discussing politics, lobby efforts, the war in Iraq, or whether God is a Republican or Democrat. It is a place to share information and resources of benefit to the broader Body of Christ in Madison.

For example:

September 15-18 at Green Lake Retreat Center, Green Lake, Wisconsin a Prayer Summit for Women in Ministry Leadership is planned. A wonderful group of hard-working women have planned this summit after attending a Prayer Summit last year.

I attended this Prayer Summit and give it 11 stars on a scale of 10.

When they say it is four days of focused, heart-filling time in worship and God's word, they mean it. It's a time for quieting. A time to be in the presence of Jesus. Especially for women who give, give, give, it's a time to let the Holy Spirit wash over your heart and mind. Just to be with Jesus.

The vision of the folks who started prayer summits: Being in the presence of the Lord brings healing. Healing brings renewal to the Body of Christ. Renewal in the Body of Christ will bring revival in the land.

Want healing? Want renewal? Want revival?

How to find out more?

email shirleyd@tds.net for brochures.

The "parent organization" of this ministry, International Renewal Ministries has a website
www.prayersummits.net

Although any woman may attend, this Summit is of particular value to women in ministry leadership. Your church may have funds for this kind of training and enrichment.