Annual Conference 2023

Spiritual Reflection

Baptism Remembrance 

Many United Methodists are baptized as infants. That can make it difficult to remember our baptism -- the day, the people gathered with us, the pastor who prayed over us, the way it felt, etc. Whether or not we can remember our actual baptism, though, we can and should take time to be reminded of why we are baptized and what it means for our faith and how we live our daily lives.

Online Resources:
How can you recreate this experience in your community or daily life?
Resources on baptism available for free lending through the conference Resource Center:

Candle Lighting

Lighting a candle symbolizes inviting the light of the world, Jesus Christ, into our lives. It is a tangible reminder that God is with us and that God can be the light amidst the darkness of confusion, frustration, illness, or sadness in our lives. Any time you light a candle, be reminded that the Holy Spirit is with you and that God hears your prayer.

Online Resources:
How can you recreate this experience in your community or daily life?
Please see the Prayer Wall section for prayer resources available through the conference Resource Center.

Labyrinth

Unlike a maze, there are no wrong turns or dead ends in a labyrinth. There is one entry/exit, one path to the center, and one path back out. There is something particularly moving about the embodiment of our faith. The way we bow our heads in prayer, lift our hands in worship, or walk a labyrinth to find stillness with God. These are all ways to embody our faith by connecting our bodies with our spirits.

Online Resources:
How can you recreate this experience in your community or daily life?
Resources on labyrinths/walking available for free lending through the conference Resource Center:

Prayer Wall

Prayer walls are a simple way to promote intercessory prayer, when we pray for others. By posting a prayer on a wall, you are inviting others to pray with and for you. You are not alone. You are not praying alone. You can find comfort in knowing that your community is with you. 

Online Resources:
How can you recreate this experience in your community or daily life?
Resources on prayer available for free lending through the conference Resource Center: