Photo by Yannis H on Unsplash.

Each Wednesday at 10 AM EST, the familiar chime of the Zoom doorbell signals the beginning of something sacred.

Rectangles appear on screen as pastors, church members, missionaries, office staff, and global church leaders log in from across the U.S. and around the world. Friendly chatter and joyful greetings set the tone for the hour ahead—an hour dedicated to seeking God’s heart for the world through prayer.

A Spiritual Anchor

The gathering is a holy pause in the middle of a busy week to recenter on what matters most.

The Global Prayer Gathering has become a spiritual anchor for many—a time of refreshment, connection, and shared purpose. Participants describe it as a “mini Sabbath,” a holy pause in the middle of a busy week to recenter on what matters most. As the group lifts up the 14 prayer requests from the weekly Prayer Focus, the sense of unity is tangible. Whether someone prays aloud or joins silently in agreement, God hears every voice and every heart.

“There’s something powerful about praying with people who talk to Jesus like they know him—and believe he hears and answers,” one participant shared. “It strengthens my own walk with him.”

The atmosphere is deeply welcoming. Even those who don’t feel comfortable praying aloud find themselves included and encouraged. “This gathering is a safe space,” said another. “It’s low-key, non-threatening, and yet profoundly moving.”

For many, the prayer gathering has become a time for strengthening and spiritual nourishment. The devotional reflections and real-time updates provide context, insight, and inspiration. “Hearing stories of answered prayer has reenergized my faith,” one participant noted.

Global Ripple Effect

Beyond encouragement, the Global Prayer Gathering builds bridges. Participants learn about U.S. ministries and global projects, hearing directly from missionaries and church leaders. Some come to know the faces and stories behind the requests, adding depth and compassion to their prayers.

“It’s a beautiful reminder that our church is global,” a regular attendee reflected. “I feel connected to brothers and sisters around the world. This gathering helps me see God’s hand in places I’ve never been.”

Whether someone prays aloud or joins silently in agreement, God hears every voice and every heart.

The fellowship has ripple effects. Pastors share that the time spent in prayer refreshes their own ministry and family life. For others, it has sparked a renewed passion for missions. “I joined a trip to Dearborn after one of the prayer sessions,” one participant shared. “Being surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses assures me that it is always possible to keep growing in my trust, love, and faith in God.”

And yet, the gathering remains beautifully simple. There’s no pressure—just space to seek God together. “You can be as involved as you want,” one person shared. “Whether you pray aloud or just listen, there’s room for you.”

The Global Prayer Gathering is more than a weekly Zoom call—it’s a meaningful way to connect with others, stay informed about global needs, and join in faithful prayer. Each week, people from different places and backgrounds come together with one purpose: to seek God and lift up his work around the world. It’s a simple but powerful reminder that we are not alone—and that prayer truly makes a difference.

Connect Through Prayer

If you’re longing for a deeper connection through prayer and a broader view of God’s work in the world, the Global Prayer Gathering is a welcoming circle of fellow believers who come simply to pray.

  • When: Every Wednesday at 10 AM EST
  • Where: On Zoom (link available by request to missions@bicus.org)
  • Who: Anyone with a heart to pray—no experience necessary

Come as you are. Listen in. Lift your voice. Let your heart be stirred. There’s a seat for you in this growing fellowship of prayer.

This story was originally published in the monthly “Missions Moment” newsletter. Email missions@bicus.org to subscribe.

Tess Crawford
Tess Crawford serves as Resource Coordinator for BIC U.S. World Missions, where she oversees prayer publications and supports missionaries and congregations. She and her husband, Ron—community director at New Life Community—live in Carlisle, Pa. A decade in Papua, Indonesia, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, where she taught elementary art, deeply shaped her passion for ministry and creativity. As an artist and teacher, Tess helps others engage with scripture through creative expression and is committed to joyful, authentic discipleship. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, reading, and forest walks with her family.

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