An Invitation to The Wesleyan Pattern of Prayer and Fasting

The following explanation of the "Wesley Fast" comes from World Methodist Evangelism (a part of the World Methodist Council). 

As a member of the Order of the FLAME, I have participated in the Wesley Fast for years.  I have found it to be of such significance that we included it in the constitution for the Wesleyan-Anglican Society.

If you do not currently have a regular pattern of prayer and fasting, I encourage you to join with Methodists around the world in the Wesley Fast!

Hear this invitation from World Methodist Evangelism:

The Wesleyan Pattern of Prayer and Fasting

Fasting is a significant part of the Christian experience. Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days and taught his disciples to fast. First century churches fasted twice weekly. John Wesley encouraged those in the Methodist Movement to fast and pray.

In more than 130 countries, the Wesleyan/Methodist family joins in the same weekly fast which John Wesley observed most of his life: going without solid food after their evening meal each Thursday until mid-afternoon each Friday. This time of fasting is focused in prayer on the vision that those who follow Jesus in the company of the Wesleys would be empowered to become channels for the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Our world desperately needs the healing, hope, and salvation offered in Jesus Christ. You can become part of this important movement by joining us as we fast and pray weekly for Holy Spirit power to share the good news so that the world may know Jesus Christ. 

Thursday Evening Prayer

To you, O God, we offer the coming day's devotion of prayer and fasting. We thank you for the example of Jesus. Grant that we may die to ourselves. Make us new in Christ. Feed the starvation of soul, of thought, of will, and after the quiet rest of sleep; open our mouths to praise you in the morning. Through Christ your son, our Light and our Strength. AMEN