This July several thousand Presbyterians will attend the 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Minneapolis. But there are many more who would like to be at the Assembly, but can’t attend because of time, distance or other commitments.

There is, however, a way for all to participate.

While many local Presbyterians will serve in ministries of hospitality during the Assembly, showing commissioners and visitors alike the neighborliness that is characteristic of Presbyterians, others can help through prayer.

The Committee on Local Arrangements (COLA) is looking for about 1,000 people who are willing to serve as prayer partners, said Lois Potter, a member of Calvin Presbyterian Church in Long Lake, MN, and coordinator of the committee’s Prayer Partner Work Group.

Each prayer partner will be given the name of a commissioner or advisory delegate and asked to pray for them throughout the Assembly.

All are welcome to become a prayer and can volunteer to be one by registering as a volunteer on the COLA Web site and selecting “prayer partner.” Those who are not able to register online can contact Potter at (763) 497-1601 or the COLA office at (612) 871-2617.