x
0

Author: wisitech

Prayer Guidelines

Posted on by wisitech

Prayer Guidelines

Prayer Guidelines

Prayer is always a matter of a lifestyle of developing your relationship and connecting to God. Connections are important in a relationship and the only way to connect to God is through prayer. It is your channel to communicate with Him and know Him more just like how you talk to your friends and family. The way you communicate with them is through talking and same as prayer as a form of connecting and talking to God. This is what prayer really is.

Now that you know what prayer is, have you wondered who can pray and see the manifestation of those prayers? In the Bible, it says that those who desire to know Him just like in Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Also in Hebrews 11:6, “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” As a person desires to know God then that person will find God.

As you live life to the fullest, sometimes you would wonder when you should really pray? When is the right time to pray? In 2 Timothy 4:2, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” Despite the word preach, it may be applied to prayer. In every season you face whether it’s a good or a bad season, just pray. As said in the first part, prayer is a communication with God. It’s a connection. It’s a way to build your relationship. Relationships are not built by good experiences or days you share with someone but bad seasons or bad experiences are also part of what you share in a relationship and so that goes in prayer. You may pray whenever you want as long as you keep doing it. Good or bad, the Lord will listen to your prayer. No matter what time it is in the day or how busy you are, never forget to communicate with your Creator.

Now that you know what prayer is, who has the authority to pray, and when is the time to pray, you should figure out the reason why a person should pray. There are a lot of reasons why people pray but there are main reasons why a person prays to God. One, the main goal of prayer is to really develop a relationship with God since it is the fastest and most convenient channel to talk to the Lord. Then others pray because of the gratitude they have as God has been working in their life and they treat life as a gift from the Lord and that they acknowledge that it comes from God, that’s why they pray, to give thanks to Him. Also, it’s to ask wisdom, knowledge, strength, humility, peace, and anything that a person could ask the Lord, because as it says in Matthew 7:7-11, ”Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks a fish, will he give him a serpent?If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” Whatever it is that you need, the Lord will surely give it to you as long as you have the right heart and the right attitude. Then one of the reasons for prayer is acknowledgment. It is to acknowledge that without God, we are nothing. We can’t do anything without Him. These are some reasons why a person prays.

So, where should you pray? Is there a specific place where to pray and offer up your thanksgiving to God? Is the church the right place? The answer is anywhere and everywhere! Whether you are at home, your workplace, school, church, or even in your bathroom. You can pray anywhere. The only difference is the solemnity of each place just like in the Holy Churches in Jerusalem where we offer up the prayers you have sent us. We pray there because we know that that place is one of the holiest places here on earth and so we, The Salvation Garden, offer the prayers there. However, no matter where you are, your heart in praying matters.

Now, how should you pray? The answer is simple. Just approach God’s presence boldly and with confidence that you know that you can communicate with Him directly. Talk to Him with respect but also talk to Him as His child because He is your Heavenly Father. The Lord is not someone you think is so strict and always ready to punish, His character towards His children isn’t like that. He is the fruit of the Holy Spirit. And so as you pray, just approach Him with the confidence that you are His child whom He loved dearly.

In this blog prayer series, you would know what prayer is, how it is done, the benefits, battles, and victories you’ll encounter in prayer. This series is for you to know how important prayer is to incorporate in your lifestyle and its effects on your daily living. This is just the start of it, there are more for you to read. And so take the time to read the whole series in the coming days and apply it in your life, you’ll see how different your life will be!

Visit the Holy Word on the top of the page to read more articles about different topics you may need to see today!

Urgent Prayer Request

Posted on by wisitech

Urgent Prayer Request

Urgent Prayer Request

Prayer is a means to be attentive to God and establishes a two-way spiritual relationship with Him. We not only talk to God while praying but also listen to his advice. You can compare it to a conversation a child has with their dad. For instance, is it commonplace for a child to request their dad for the things they wish or ask for guidance or advice?

Remember, we do not pray on our own but along with Christians residing all over the world. Also, it helps us be in touch with our Lord and others. When we offer up prayer requests together, it becomes a more powerful tool for us, Christians living in different parts of the world unite in the power of the Holy Spirit and the name of Christ. We offer all types of situations to God and He uses these prayers to bless the world with justice and love. It becomes a ministry that as those fervent prayers offered becomes a blessing to someone out there.

How Do We Begin?

Prayer does not have to be a hidden secret. He is always there to protect and guide us and prepared to listen. God hears prayers that are offered by His children.

There are several ways to pray:

  • Do an activity that is prayerful such as visiting a church or lighting a candle.
  • Morning prayer to prepare yourself for the day you will encounter.
  • Share our feelings with God.
  • Be quiet with our Lord irrespective of whether you are with other people or on your own.
  • Say Amen when someone else is praying.
  • Use words – sing, speak, or think them.
  • Join your Church Online Prayer

Why Do We Pray?

Prayer is an expression of gratitude, or a solemn request addressed to God. It is a way to Worship. People pray as they wish to communicate with God to ask for something they desire or to offer thanks. Christians expect to get answers to their prayers based on their requirements or the crucial circumstances they face.

Mostly, people expect to receive the answers to their prayers instantly. That is because they feel they need those things at that very moment. At times, a believer has prayers to be offered immediately to our Lord. Immediate Prayer that urgently needs an answer.

The reason for this is they require an urgent response. It may be the top-most priority for them at that time. However, they should remember that it is not how prayer works.

God Hears Every Prayer

Our Lord listens to the prayers of every believer, and all are equally important to Him. However, this does not mean He will come up with an immediate response.

His timetable is not the same as ours. Some people may feel that He is taking too much time to answer their prayers. The reality, however, is our Lord responds beautifully to all requests but in His proper time. Just like when He gave Jesus as the sacrificial lamb for our sins, it was the right time to be saved from the darkness.

God always ensures that the heart of His believers is prepared to receive the responses that He prepares. Remember, when our Lord comes up with answers to the prayers of His believers, it can bring blessing to them and other people around them.

Types of Prayer Requests

There are people who send their prayer requests through us and we’ve seen how it has made an impact in their lives. These are some of the prayer requests that they submit.

  1. Healing
  2. Provision
  3. Guidance
  4. Gratitude
  5. Urgent Prayer Request

These are some of them but prayers are not limited to just these but for you to find out more about the urgent prayer request or the immediate request, here are some of the things you might want to know about.

What is an Urgent Prayer Request?

Urgent Prayer Request is a prayer a believer creates when they feel something is crucial and should be prayed for immediately. It may be a prayer that is an emergency or a priority. It is a need to urgently get an answered prayer request.

Very often, urgent prayer requests are a prayer for others or a personal prayer for someone. Such a prayer request has no limit on what or for whom to pray. It just signifies that every person has different requirements at different times.

The Bible promises that faithful and fervent prayer works. We have seen that happening countless times to us, and the people around us. Our Lord is faithful and listens and responds to fervent prayers offered when we have a need.

Is your situation an impossible one? Do you require an absolute miracle? Even if you have an urgent requirement in life, we have complete faith in supernatural miracles. Our Lord can achieve the impossible if we trust Him completely. God’s timetable is different from how we perceive it.

How to pray an urgent prayer?

There is no right or wrong way in how to pray this urgent prayer. But here are some of the ways you can use as a guide to help you:

  1. Set your Heart right
  2. Know what you need to pray for
  3. Have faith knowing God can work in your situation

How do you ask for a prayer request?

The Salvation Garden offers you the chance to send your urgent prayer requests for any reason – family problems, financial issues, personal struggles, or anything you desire or need. Send your Urgent Prayer Requests here.

The Ministry of The Salvation Garden

The Lord has blessed us at The Salvation Garden with an opportunity to approach and assist all such people who need to offer their prayers to the Almighty. It is a ministry that God has given us to be able to be a blessing to everyone in the world as we offer prayer requests in the Holy Churches. We believe that our Lord listens to us. God hears prayers. When we connect to Him in full faith and boldly, our prayers work. Every time you send your urgent prayer requests, we prioritize them by taking them to the Holy Churches.

We, at The Salvation Garden, are your most dependable organization to carry your prayers to Holy Churches. Your prayers are valuable for us as they not only include your requirements but also the most important goals and desires in your life. When you fill-up the prayer forms, we inspire you to offer your prayer first. It will help you to be fully convinced in His power while writing your urgent prayer requests.

Once you have filled out your urgent prayer requests online, the next step is to choose the Church where you want us to take your prayers. Alternatively, we will also bring your prayer request to all five Holy Churches if you want us to do so.

Our dedicated team members will personally take your urgent prayer requests to all these Churches and then offer them to our Lord. While you send these prayer requests, do not forget to pray daily. Mark 11:24 mentions, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

We believe that you will get the right response to all your urgent prayer requests. You should have complete faith that God will send you the right answers while sending these prayer requests. After we bring your prayer requests to your chosen Holy Church, we will send you videos or pictures to assure you.

Many people have told us that they felt a difference in their life after sending their urgent prayer requests through us at The Salvation Garden. We understand that it may not always be easy for you to share your intimate and personal prayers. However, know that we are a safe space and join you in your prayers.

We are ecstatic every time we get the good news from all those people who sent their urgent prayer requests through us. These people tell us that our Lord has answered their prayers. We value your testimonies as we bring your sincere prayers to the Holy Churches.

Prayer has incredible power as it transforms everything. Every time we bring our prayers to the Holy Land, we learn how the Almighty is changing your life through the prayer requests. We realize that God has us here for a beautiful purpose when we receive your testimonies. And this specific purpose is to bring all your prayer requests to the Holy Churches of Jerusalem.

Thus, we, The Salvation Garden, offer you the chance to send your urgent prayer requests for any reason – family problems, financial issues, personal struggles, or anything you desire or need. Allow us to pray for you! Send your Urgent Prayer Requests now

Pandemic Prayer for the Well-Being of Children and People

Posted on by wisitech

Pandemic Prayer for the Well-Being of Children and People

Pandemic Prayer for the Well-Being of Children and People

There seems to be no decrease in the intensity of the global pandemic. We also observe that the pandemic has become more infectious, and several kids are contracting the disease. There are many cases where the complete family is suffering from its dangerous symptoms. The ailment and the gloom following it have affected the well-being and happiness of our yesteryear lives.

These are challenging times that have humbled us, and we have been seeking the mercy of the Almighty. Prayers are ceaselessly on our lips. We are constantly whispering petitions so that the pandemic ends fast. Believers are down on their knees and pleading to God to bring back the old times.

We are seeking divine intervention so that the pandemic disappears miraculously and magically. At the same time, have we taken out some time to contemplate and request for the right favors from our Lord during these distressful times?

• Learn To Pray Differently

Rather than praying for the coronavirus to go away, we should instead pray for virtues such as fortitude and strength to shoulder extra responsibilities to meet the pandemic demands. It is not enough to pray that the pandemic ends soon. We should also make efforts so that the calamity passes.

To curtail the contagion, we need to follow many practices such as maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, reducing social get-togethers, postponing travels that are not required, and getting vaccinated. We should then pray to seek the grace of God to counter the new demand of being responsible people. We should also face the burdens of the pandemic graciously.

Thus, it is high time that we know how to pray differently in the prevailing situation. We need to pray for patience, wisdom, and resilience. Let us also pray that people follow the laws of the land. We should also pray for developing a benevolent spirit, where we look beyond our benefits and consider all those millions of people who would be losing their battle against the COVID-19 due to the collective irresponsible behavior of others.

When we learn to pray differently, we will realize that God has already responded to our prayers. We also become optimistic that the pandemic will end sooner than later.

• Pandemic and the Wellbeing of Our Children

During the pandemic and at any other time of distress within the world or family, we should take care of our children and various aspects of their well-being. Additionally, we should be mindful of our kids spiritually.

• A Sample Pandemic Prayer For Children And People All Over

Loving God, you are the source of all health. Listen to the cries of all your children, old and young, in the scary pandemic. The virus is ravaging and threatening millions of people and children, and we do not know how to stop it with confidence.

Look at children and people with compassion, especially if they are suffering from this deadly virus in the world. May our hearts be full of love for our neighbors during these trying times.

Listen to our pleas for our children God, especially during the dangerous pandemic. King of kings, please protect them and fight their battles during this threat that we do not yet know how to stop completely. And lead our children and us throughout the planet into a safe and healthy future. Amen.

The Salvation Garden opens the gates for you and Christians around the world. We offer you direct access to the holy sites of Jerusalem. If you cannot visit the Holy Land for any reason, we are here for you.

You can submit your prayer online, and our team members will physically place it in the chosen worship site in the Holy Land. We offer digital documentation for every prayer so that you can connect to the Holy Land from your house.

Are Some Kinds of Prayer More Effective Than Others?

Posted on by wisitech

Are Some Kinds of Prayer More Effective Than Others?

Do Some Forms of Prayers Work Better Than Others for People

The most honest prayers are the most effective and powerful prayers. Christ said after narrating the story of the tax collector and the Pharisee in the Temple (Luke 18:9-14) that it was the tax collector who truly prayed. While we should pray for our needs, prayers should not keep piling up so that our Lord answers to them unwillingly.

We, human beings, live with the future, present, and past. However, our Lord does not relate to time in the same manner. If God did so, it would be a limitation on His part. We should not pray just because we are scared of God’s plan for a particular situation concerning us. We also do not pray to convince that our plan is the better one to carry out.

We pray deep down because prayer is the candid response to the precious gift of life that we have got. Prayer also brings us closer to the people or individuals for whom we are praying. Also, prayer helps us to do whatever we can do such as, visiting ill people. At the same time, we cannot assure the outcome of all situations about which we pray.

You must have wondered why some kinds of prayers are more effective and better than others.

Check out some of the things to consider for answering this question.

Are the Requests We Are Making Good for Us?

We, humans, can be bound from time to time. There are several occasions when we ask our Lord for certain things and think these will be fish or bread for us. However, in reality, they turn out to be stones and snakes. On the other hand, God would not grant any such request that might cause harm to you or your dear ones.

It is about God’s Ways

People may have their wishes and desires, but that is not always the way our Lord wants to see things happen. At the same time, we must agree that His ways are better. The fact is whenever our Lord had His way in the Bible, people got better results as compared to when they wanted to do things their way.

John 5:14 states, “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.”

One thing is sure- His ways are much greater than the ways of human beings. Our most preferred desire should be to seek God’s ways, though there are times when it may not make sense to us. That is the reason why Christ told us to pray first in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come, you will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

Lord has Already Responded

Many people feel because God says “wait” or refuses, their prayer is ineffective. However, don’t you think a prompt response or denying what we desire is still effective? There are many such situations when God gives an effective and fast denial for our well-being. However, we are too stubborn to listen to His refusal and accept it.

We, at The Salvation Garden, are a prayer community and want people from different parts of the world to enjoy access to the Holy land from their homes. You can fill your prayer request online, and we will hand-deliver your prayers at the holy sites in Jerusalem.

We offer digital documentation for every prayer so that you can connect to the Holy Land from your house. If you are unable to visit the Holy Land for any financial or physical issues, we are here for you. Our team members will collect your prayers and assist you in sending them to God from one of the holiest places on earth.

How Would Jesus Pray- Prayers in the Bible

Posted on by wisitech

How Would Jesus Pray- Prayers in the Bible

How Would Jesus Pray- Prayers in the Bible

Very often, we are scared to ask for something life-changing, the unthinkable, and enormous. That’s because we are apprehensive God will only fulfill our small requests and thus disappoint us. We also feel guilty for not praying righteously and pray just empty prayers. Christ not only prays for our spiritual protection but also for our physical protection.

Here are some of the ways Jesus would pray, as is evident from His prayers in the Bible:

1. And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark. Mk. 1:35

Christ was aware of how important it is to meet God early in the day can set the foundation of how the day will progress. When we pray first thing in the morning, we get great strength throughout the day,

2. My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done. Mt 26:42

Christ knew that the will of God takes precedence over the desires of human beings. Whenever we pray, we should convey our wishes and requirements to Him. At the same time, we should trust and believe that our Lord is aware of what we need the most,

3. And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will. Mt 26:39

Jesus was not scared to request big things. Our Lord can respond to big prayers. The fact is He loves a heart that believes He can fulfill all their wishes.

4. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Lu. 5:16

Jesus liked to pray in isolated locations. When we get alone, our mind has the space it requires to comprehend life-changing spiritual requirements.

5. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. Lu. 23:34

It would have been easy for Jesus to curse the world for the agony and pain he suffered. Yet, He forgave everyone. It is a lesson to forgive all those people who cause us grief and pain. If we start forgiving others, we will suffer from less pain and anguish in the long run.

6. I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. Mt. 11:25-26

While humans easily find faults with God’s will, Jesus praised Him. So, praise our Lord even for the things you do not comprehend. If we believe that God takes care of our bad problems, we will be calm and stress-free.

7. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me that they may be one, even as we are one. Jo. 17:9

Christ prayed for all His loving children. So, let us pray that the heart of all children of God and our hearts stay pure, learn to endure until the end. That is God’s will for all of us.

Which one of Christ’s prayers touched your heart the most? The way He prayed must be an eye-opener for you.

The Salvation Garden virtually opens the gates for you and Christians around the world. We offer you direct access to the holy sites of Jerusalem. Now you can send your prayer and have it physically placed in your chosen worship site in the Holy Land.

We offer digital documentation for every prayer so that you can connect to the Holy Land from your house. If you are unable to visit the Holy Land for any financial or physical issues, we are here for you. Our team members will collect your prayers and assist you in sending them to God from one of the holiest places on earth.

Celebrating the Feast of Michael and All the Angels

Posted on by wisitech

Celebrating the Feast of Michael and All the Angels

Celebrating the Feast of Michael and All the Angels

The Feast of Michael and All Angels is also known as Michaelmas. It falls on September 29 every year. The day is close to the equinox and is also related to the shortening of days.

Introducing the Three Archangels
Angels are pure spirits. They are God’s messengers or servants. Angels are on a higher order as compared to humans because they are heavenly or celestial beings. They do not rely upon matter for their activity or existence. However, they are different from saints, which humans can become. Also, angels are immortal and have will and wisdom.

The liturgy celebrates the feast of three archangels according to the Church’s tradition. Michael was the archangel who defeated Satan and his evil angels in a fierce battle to defend God’s friends. He protects humankind from the trap of the devil. Gabriel is the Strength of God and revealed the birth of Lord Jesus Christ to Mary and Zachariah the birth of John the Baptist.

Gabriel’s greeting to Mother Mary is one of the most frequent and common prayers of Christians. It goes like this- “Hail, full of Grace.” Raphael (the Medicine of God) took care of Tobias during his journey.

History of Michaelmas
The roots of this feast date back to as early as the third century. The day was then transformed from a pagan spring festival into a feast day. However, it was only in the fifth century when it emerged as an official feast day. A basilica was built near Rome to honor Saint Michael on September 30. Celebrations started on the eve of that day, and the practice continues.

Celebrations, Traditions, and Customs
As mentioned in the beginning, many nations refer to the day as “Michaelmas.” It is also a harvest feast day. In England, the day marked the election of magistrates, recruitment of servants, and start of university and legal terms. The day also marks the opening of the hunting season for deer and other games. In certain European countries such as Austria, Denmark, and Germany, people drink a wine called “Saint Michael’s Love” on this day.

The foods that people eat for this day differ from country to country. For example, in the British Isles, people ate a fattened goose for prosperity on this day. In Scotland, a big, scone-like cake called St. Michael’s Bannock was the traditional fare.

French like to eat Gaufres or waffles for the day while Italians have gnocchi. Christians celebrate the day to support the wealth and prosperity of the family for the coming year.

You can enjoy direct access to the sites of the Holy Land through The Salvation Garden. Send your prayers, and we will be pleased to direct them to your chosen church in the Holy Land. We only urge donations so that we can make all necessary arrangements such as security and travel.

Please enter your special prayer request here.

Holy Cross Day Celebration in the Holy Lands

Posted on by wisitech

Holy Cross Day Celebration in the Holy Lands

Holy Cross Day Celebration in the Holy Lands

Holy Cross Day celebrates the return of the Holy Cross to the city of Jerusalem. The Cross, originally captured by the Persians, could be recovered only in A.D. 628. The church celebrates this day on September 14 every year. Holy Cross Day commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by Lord Jesus Christ by dying on the Cross so that we can attain salvation.

  • Holy Cross Day- Background

September 14 is celebrated as the Holy Cross Day as it was on the same day when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was assigned on the site of the Lord’s crucifixion in Jerusalem. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, had come across some broken pieces of Holy Cross. She discovered these pieces in 326 CE while on a pilgrimage.

It is believed that the Jews had concealed the Holy Cross in a well or a ditch. They had hidden the Cross with stones over it so that the believers would not chance upon it and revere it. However, very few Jews knew about its exact location. Judas, one of these Jews, was influenced by Divine inspiration and revealed the location to a group of excavators.

St. Helena was full of praises for Judas. Later on, Judas went on to become a famous Christian Saint and was referred to as Cyriacus. Emperor Constantine and St. Helena built a stunning basilica after this stunning revelation.

  • Holy Cross Day- Celebration

A liturgical feast is celebrated on September 14 every year to show reverence to the Cross on which Lord Jesus Christ was crucified. The Eastern Church calls it “The Exaltation of the Holy Cross”. The Roman Catholic Church embraced the celebration in the 7th century. The Church refers to the feast as “The Triumph of the Cross”. Today, the day is also observed in different Protestant traditions such as Anglicanism and Lutheranism.

According to Eastern Orthodox practice, the day is observed as a fast day. Followers are expected to observe a strict fast. Although it is alright to eat oil, consumption of fish, dairy products, and meat is prohibited. Fasting is not part of any form of legalistic requirements. Rather, we fast for reducing our consumption so that there is something that can be shared with others. We also fast to make space for the presence of God through our prayers and for simplifying our lives.

On this day, the Church holds a special service. The Cross is surrounded by basil branches and put on a tray. The tray is then taken in a grand procession through the Church. Hymns are chanted when the procession is on.

  • Holy Cross Day- Significance

The Holy Cross is a symbol of the victory of Lord Jesus Christ over death. The day is also a celebration of the transformation of a heinous instrument of torture into a seraphic “tree of life”. The celebration of Holy Cross Day brings rays of hope to mankind. It is also a representation of the sacrifices made by Christ for the salvation of humankind.

As mentioned earlier, the day also celebrates the discovery of the True Cross by St. Helena in the holy world.

You can enjoy direct access to the sites of the Holy Land through The Salvation Garden. Send your prayers and we will be pleased to direct them to your chosen site(s) in the Holy Land. We only urge donations so that we can make all necessary arrangements such as security and travel.

Please write your special prayer request here.

The Significance of the Nativity of Mary, Mother of God

Posted on by wisitech

The Significance of the Nativity of Mary, Mother of God

The Significance of the Nativity of Mary, Mother of God

The Bible does not mention anything about the birth of Mother Mary. However, we do know about her birth. Ann and Joachim, Mary’s parents, possibly looked at her just once to realize how special she was. Her parents revered God a lot and were full of gratitude and thankfulness for being gifted with such a precious child.

Mary was brought up as God’s child.She was taught to serve and love God. Gabriel, the angel told Mary that she was the one chosen to give birth to Jesus Christ. Mary was deeply troubled and exclaimed, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?”

The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. …nothing will be impossible for God.”

Mary was a great believer of God. She had deep trust and faith in Him, hence, she agreed to the divine plan.

What is the Feast of Nativity?

The feast of Nativity of Mary, Mother of God, is celebrated on the eighth of September every year. Typically, the church has the custom to celebrate a saint’s feast day on the day they pass away. The day is commemorated as their entry into happiness forever. However, Mary made an entry into the world without committing any sin. The church had been celebrating her birth since the sixth century. It decided to choose a September birth for her because the Eastern Church starts its Church year with September.

Significance of the Nativity

Here are some of the key reasons why the nativity of Mary is so significant for Christians:

Dawn of Our Salvation
The Nativity of Mother Mary is a reason to rejoice as the day is regarded to be the “dawn of our salvation.” In 1974, Pope Paul VI mentioned so in the document Marialis Cultus.

Time for Reflection
Celebrating birthdays not only brings joy to the celebrant but also their friends and family. Next to Jesus Christ’s birth, the birth of Mother Mary brings the highest possible happiness to the planet. Every time, we celebrate the Nativity, we are certain of increasing peace and satisfaction in the world in general and in our hearts in particular.

Celebrating Mary’s Birthday also means Honoring Jesus Christ
The birthday of Mother Mary is special because, without her and her desire to serve God, things would have been so different. The history of salvation would not have been the same without her.

No one knew who Mary was when she was born. However, every time we celebrate her birth, we also remember and honor our Lord Christ. After all, Mary brought our Lord into this world. The Nativity is thus meant to honor Mary, as well as, her son Jesus. We must not forget that the almighty has created every individual with a special purpose and a lot of love.

The Salvation Garden offers direct access to the holy sites of Jerusalem. Please send your prayers and we will place themat your selected site(s)in the Holy Land. We only ask that you help us make this delegation possible by donating towards making arrangements, including travel and security. May the Lord hear our Prayers. Amen.

Please write your special prayer request here.

Praying for Healing and Miracles in the Holy Lands of Christ, our Lord

Posted on by wisitech

Praying for Healing and Miracles in the Holy Lands of Christ, our Lord

That God holds the power of healing and performing miracles has been well-documented throughout the Bible. But when things don’t happen the way we would have liked them to happen, it doesn’t mean God hasn’t answered your prayer. It just means that we’ve failed to listen to him. Everything happens for a reason. Even if it seems massively unfair to our petty senses. The scope of God’s work is vast and literally, spans all of creation. We cannot command or control his wishes. But we can choose how we behave, live, and pray. That is the fundamental lesson that Christians have to realize. That we live to spread love, kindness, goodness, and faith.

Nevertheless, if pain, grief, depression, illness, loss, or disaster is beyond what you can physically bear, God will grant you relief should you ask for it.

According to the Book of Psalms, 6:2-4:

“Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long? Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.”

Here’s a small prayer for healing, inspired from the psalms, and many theologians who have come after, experienced the joy of living and praying in Christ, and penned down their thoughts in writing.

O Loving Father, You have blessed us by sending your only son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to suffer and be sacrificed for our sins. I believe in Jesus, and am whole-heartedly prepared to forgive those who have sinned against me as I expect you to forgive me for my sins. I’m pained to say that my grief, my illness, and my suffering, are beyond what I can bear. I surrender myself to you, thus, O healer of sin, and forgiver of mortal pelf. Please help me overcome my weaknesses, take away my pain by replacing it with your eternal hope and joy from the kingdom beyond. Please help heal my loved ones. Please help end violence and injustice in this world. May the healers and the leaders of this world, be moved to act. Through the most holy, Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, I pray for these wishes to come true. May the Lord hear our prayers. Amen.

The same can be used as a prayer for a miracle – urgent or otherwise. Here, in the holy lands, the Salvation Garden praying community continues to pray steadfastly for relief from illness, rescue from violence, and peace on earth. We hope that God will listen to our prayers in the lands and churches where Jesus Christ himself lived, preached his glorious ministry, performed miracles, healed the sick, and practiced a life of untiring love and fortitude. He also suffered for it, under cruel and relentless regimes, was crucified, died, and was buried. On the third day, he rose again and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

Like the Psalms, 107:19-20 tell us:

“Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them.”

We can carry your prayer requests for respite from pain and sickness, and prayers for miracles, to the holiest churches and sites within the Holy Lands. We only ask that you help us make this delegation possible by donating towards making arrangements, including travel and security. May the Lord hear our Prayers. Amen.

 

Celebrating the Baptism of Jesus Christ on the banks of the Jordan

Posted on by wisitech

Celebrating the Baptism of Jesus Christ on the banks of the Jordan

Significance of the Baptism of Jesus at Qasr al Yahud along the Jordan

The shallow waters of the lower Jordan, flowing through meandering plains, is also the site of one of Christianity’s most holy sites – the site of the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Also known by its Arabic name – the Qasr al Yahud – the waters of the Jordan at this point, just south of where the Yarmuk joins the Jordan, are considered holy beyond measure.

The Significance of the Baptism of Jesus Christ

This is because the Baptism of our Lord marks a watershed event, where Jesus first recognizes and accepts the fate that must befall him. In that moment of his blessed cleansing, the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a white dove, and God, the Father’s own voice is heard, acknowledging pride in his divine son.

According to Mark 1:9-11:
It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.”

This is perhaps the only moment that the Trinity is seen together in one glorious scene, as famously depicted by Aert de Gelder, the last of Rembrandt’s pupils while in Amsterdam, in 1710.

Jesus’ baptism is markedly different from ordinary baptisms, which are a reaffirmation of sin and being cleansed therefrom. The son of God had no sins to repent but he chose to accept the fate of his painful death by crucifixion and, thereby his glorious resurrection, three days later.

The Gospel of Matthew 3:13-15 explains this point further.

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. John tried to prevent him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” Jesus said to him in reply, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed him.

Accepting Christ, Rejecting Sin, and Becoming Part of his Family

But perhaps, no one has explained the significance of the Baptism of Christ better than the late Pope Benedict the Sixteenth. According to him, for the rest of us, baptism means being accepted into the family of God. This is because baptism means communion with the one who conquered death and holds in his hands the keys to life. Accepting Christ means being part of his circle and being showered with his eternal love far beyond death.

As the late Pope so eloquently puts it, “And if we can say that love and truth are sources of life, are life itself – and a life without love is not life – we can say that this companionship with the One who is truly life, with the One who is the Sacrament of life, will respond to your expectation, to your hope.”

Why Pilgrims Still Throng the Site of the Baptism on the Banks of the Jordan

Why Pilgrims Still Throng the Site of the Baptism on the Banks of the Jordan

Today, the muddy waters of the River Jordan have been drained and dammed for power and irrigation. But pilgrims still throng the points south of the Yarmuk to bathe and baptize themselves and be part of the experience of a lifetime – one they believe will give them power over sin, grief, worry, and doubt. For these are the holy lands and waters where Jesus himself lived, walked, cleansed, and caught fish.

To be part of this joyous ritual is to partake in a divine experience – where prayers are heard and answered – sorrows taken away and the spirit truly cleansed. The Salvation Garden praying community is proud of leading a delegation to this third most holy site in Christianity – where Jesus is believed to have first been spiritually reborn.

Pilgrimage is very limited due to pandemic-related restrictions, but we insist on carrying on. As we celebrate the spiritual rebirth of Jesus Christ and the beginning of his Ministry in Christianity’s third holiest site, we invite you to join us in prayer.

The Salvation Garden Team to Carry your Prayers to the Jordan

We are taking with us a limited number of personal prayer requests, which we will pray standing on the banks of the River Jordan and then set those prayer letters to float on the holy water.

If you send your prayer request and select the Baptism of Jesus option (after the Continue button), you will receive a photo of your printed request with the River Jordan at the site of baptism, plus a photo of the floating prayers upon the water.

Not far from Jericho, the heat there can reach over 110 degrees, yet neither sun nor vapid weather has managed to sap the strength in prayer of the Christian faithful. Such a prayer delegation would take an entire day, in harsh conditions, and it also requires security arrangements. Thank you so much for participating as your donations help turn this journey into a reality.

We, The Salvation Garden, offer you the chance to send your urgent prayer requests for any reason. Allow us to pray for you! Send your Urgent Prayer Requests now.

Our dedicated team members will personally take your urgent prayer requests to a Church of your choice in the Holy Land and then offer them to our Lord. After we bring your prayer requests to your chosen Holy Church, we will send you videos or pictures to assure you.

Praying at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: My Experience

Posted on by wisitech

Praying at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: My Experience

Despite temperatures touching 90 degrees, prayers don’t stop at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of the old city. It is hard to believe that these modest walls house the site where Christianity’s four most important events — the crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, are said to have occurred.

What is Significant about the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?

The Gospels tell us that the Lord, Jesus, was crucified at Golgotha – the place of the skull. The current complex encompasses that original location. One cannot help but feel overwhelmed by the scope of history and faith that surrounds the courtyard. Wars have been fought and tales of honor among the vanquished abound.

Who Worships at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?

Today, the joint ownership of the Church lies mainly with the Greek Orthodox, the Armenian Orthodox, and the Roman Catholic denominations.

The outer walls of the Church display signs of classic Roman and Baroque architecture. However, parts of the structure have been razed and rebuilt several times. The entrance to the complex can be accessed via a flight of stairs leading up from the‘Cardo’ — the main street of Jerusalem.

Who Holds the Keys to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?

Interestingly, the keys to the Church have traditionally been kept by a Sunni Muslim family since the time of Emperor Saladin. The story goes that the Caliph Umar took possession of the Church peacefully from the Roman patriarch Sophronius on the condition that the houses of worship in Jerusalem would not be harmed. To fulfill these conditions, the Caliph entrusted the keys to a loyal Muslim household called ‘Nussaiba’. When Emperor Saladin re-conquered the city from the Crusaders, he honored Caliph Umar’s arrangement by engaging another Muslim family called ‘Al-Goudia’.

Inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

At the entrance to the Church building, there is usually a long line of pilgrims waiting to be admitted. A series of steps lead up to the Hill of Calvary, where lie two chapels. The lavishly decorated one on the left is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion. The chapel to the right marks the spot where Jesus was nailed to the Cross. The Rock of Calvary, from the abandoned quarry that existed in Jesus’ time, is now encased in glass beneath the altar, with an opening through which you can touch the old limestone. You can even see a fissure in the rock which is consistent with the story that the earth cracked open upon Jesus’ death as mentioned in the New Testament.

The two chapels correspond to the Eleventh and Twelfth Stations of the Cross or the Via Dolorosa. The Tenth Station, where Jesus is stripped of his garments, also occurred on Calvary. As one watches these divine relics, the Apostle’s Creed comes instinctively to mind:

“I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit; born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate; Was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into Hell; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven; And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit; The Holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body; And the life everlasting. Amen.“

From the Chapel of the Crucifixion, you can move on to the Stone of Anointing, now covered with a building and lined with ornate candlesticks and frescoes. This is the place where Jesus’ body was laid down and prepared for burial.

If you wish you can visit the immaculate Iconostasis – the link between heaven and the holy place. The Armenian Station of the Holy Women is commemorated by a circular slab with four pillars supporting a marble roof. From here, Mary and the women of Jerusalem are said to have watched the Crucifixion.

The Real Tomb of Jesus Christ

Going past the Station of the Holy Women, you reach the Rotunda, which houses the Tomb of Christ under a massive dome. Archaeologically, this site has been confirmed to be either the actual site of Jesus’ tomb or very close to it because a real tomb existed at the current spot. This area is flanked by barricades where Christian faithful the world over can come and pray for all kinds of miracles. For this is the site of the greatest miracle of all – Jesus Christ’s Resurrection from death — a signifier of forgiveness for mankind’s sins. This site is universally accepted as being the holiest site in Christianity and praying here is an experience Christians should simply not miss.

You can volunteer to pray overnight at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre even as you learn to wait for mass offerings in three different traditions. The doors close by 9 pm at the latest and only open at 4 in the morning. As the Franciscan priests put it, praying at the Holy Sepulchre Church can be painful but very spiritually rewarding afterward.

If by any chance, you are unable to make it to this holiest of holy sites in your lifetime, The Salvation Garden praying community can send a delegation here to pray on your behalf. We will send you photographs and videos of your prayer being recited should you so choose, for a small donation. These donations go toward travel and other logistics to make the trip possible and are only a fraction of the cost it would take for you to perform the journey on your own. Send a prayer request to the Holy Sepulchre Church today.

Top 7 Sites Associated with the Virgin Mary in the Holy Lands

Posted on by wisitech

Top 7 Sites Associated with the Virgin Mary in the Holy Lands

Top 7 Sites Associated with the Virgin Mary in the Holy Lands

Bethlehem, Galilee, Nazareth, Hebron, and Jerusalem – these are all places associated with the Virgin Mary in the Holy Lands. Christians of all denominations hold Mary, the Mother of God, in high veneration – because of her proximity as the mother to the son of the one true Father, Jesus Christ. Therefore, her intercession in prayer is regarded as the most powerful method of beseeching God to answer your prayers.

August and September, in the Christian Calendar, are particularly celebrated because of the number of feasts and occasions celebrating the most important female character in the devotion of the Christian faithful the world over. August 15 is celebrated as the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. September 8 is celebrated as the day of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Catholics.

1. The Tomb of the Virgin Mary:

The Salvation Garden organizes trips to some of the most famous sites associated with the Madonna. Of these, the most famous one has to be the site of the Dormition – the passing of Mary to heaven once the natural course of her time on earth was over. Team members carry prayers from sponsors to be read out at the Tomb of the Virgin Mary where priests from different denominations unite in celebrating the Assumption. This year, too, we plan to engage in reciting the Hail Mary, the Rosary, consisting of all twenty mysteries, in consonance with the beads of the sacred thread.

We can light a candle for you, bought from the local authorities and blessed by the order of monks residing here. We can even make a video of the entire procession cum Mass, in order to deliver these to you via email.

The Tomb lies in the Kidron valley, near the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.

2. The Abbey of the Dormition:

Located just outside the walls of old Jerusalem, in Mount Zion, the Dormition Abbey is said to have been build under the patronage of John the Second, Bishop of Jerusalem in the early 5the century CE.

This site is well-known for its annual seminars on Theology for priests in training from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

3. The Church of the Annunciation:

Clearly demonstrating more Byzantine architecture, this monument marks the site where the angel Gabriel announced the conception and birth of Jesus Christ to a young and virgin, Mary.

This site is located in Nazareth, in Northern Israel.

4. The Church of the Nativity:

The birthplace of Jesus is as much a site dedicated to the baby Jesus, as it is to his mother. The grotto here is one of the most ancient sites of worship that has continuously been used since the time of Emperor Constantine.

Ownership to this important site is aptly divided between the Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Armenian Apostolic, Coptic Orthodox, and the Syrian Orthodox denominations of the Christian faithful.

5. The Ancient Town of Capernaum:

The entire ancient town of Capernaum was uncovered in the early 20th century by the Franciscan fathers who took over the land. This is the place where Jesus was accompanied by Mary and some of Jesus’ earliest disciples to preach his ministry. You can find the original house of St. Peter, the apostle, as well as sites where Jesus performed many of his earliest miracles, such as the healing of the cripple and the healing of the Centurion’s daughter.

6. The Church of St. Anne:

You probably didn’t know that Anne and Joachim were the parents of the Saint we now worship as the Blessed Virgin Mary. Built during the time of the Crusades, this site is incredibly well-preserved amid a courtyard full of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Of course, this is also the most likely birthplace of the Virgin Mary.

7. The Orthodox Shrine of the Nativity of Mary:

This site is arguably not the place where Mary was born. However, some religions consider this place to be sacred by virtue of its association with the early life of the Virgin Mary. You will also find that this shrine offers one of the most peaceful prayer destinations in Jerusalem.

As people here are wont to say, ‘Bring a Bible with you and watch the holy lands come to life’. In case you are unable to make it to these pilgrimage sites, we can volunteer to carry your prayers to one of the holiest sites in these lands. All you need to do is sponsor a delegation to make the trip. Check out how this process works today by sending a prayer request online.

Send your prayer request to The Holy Churches of Jerusalem

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK

0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
    Continue Shopping