'In One Accord' Prayer Event Unites Thousands

Story by Tamyra Horst

On a special day, dubbed “D-Day” by the Pennsylvania Conference, more than 2,650 people gathered across the state to unite in prayer. This year’s “In One Accord” event brought participants together at nine “upper room” locations: Philadelphia, West Chester, Reading, Allentown, Harrisburg, York, Wyoming Valley, Williamsport and Erie. Each site began the day with worship and prayer, setting a powerful tone for the activities that followed.

After a morning of worship and prayer, approximately 1,800 people took to the streets in these communities, equipped with door hangers and prayer. They prayed with those whom they encountered, offering support and compassion in various situations. A mother, overwhelmed with concern for her son battling cancer, found courage as a group of strangers surrounded her in prayer. A man reeling from a recent breakup received hugs and prayers from the participants. Others shared stories of once attending church but since drifting away. They were invited back with pastors visiting them afterward. One woman was crying as she answered the door—her tears quickly turned to joy when she learned people were there to pray with her. She shared that every time she’s hurting, God sends someone to comfort her—like the team on her doorstep.

Church members hung door hangers on thousands of doors across Pennsylvania, featuring a QR code that invited people to share prayer requests. Local churches continue the outreach, going door-to-door in their own neighborhoods to pray and leave these hangers. As the requests come in, a dedicated team prays for each one, connecting with those who seek prayer and building relationships with them. More than 20 individuals have already requested Bible studies or visits from a local pastor.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Gary Gibbs, conference president, said, “Today, we saw the church in action! We prayed with people and made a difference in their lives. Pennsylvania members are united together in mission!”