CONSULTATION ON THE
IMPROVEMENT
5th - 12th JANUARY 2 0 2 0
I thank God who wanted me to stay a man of desire
for all my life.
John Amos Comenius
ALlIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
CONSULTATION ON THE IMPROVEMENT
This year's prayer guide for the Alliance
Prayer Week is based on the thoughts and
life of John Amos Comenius, who died just
350 years ago. When Jan Amos Comenius
left, he left behind his most important
unfinished work entitled General
Consultation on the Improvement of Human
Affairs.
Humanity is a rare commodity. The more we
are aware of its lack, the rarer it gets. We
observe that our humanity is contradictory. We
have great potential, we know a lot, we have a lot
of skills and abilities, we can do a lot - but this
capacity of ours is our greatest threat. We are
able to misuse and abuse everything available
for us. We are the only beings who have the
potential of self-destruction. Therefore, it is of
utmost importance for us to seek the way how to
use our potential humanely.
Comenius named the problem of human affairs
with extraordinary foresight in his Consultation.
Here he thoroughly reflects the causes of all
human ills and problems and calls mankind to
discuss their remedy. All his corrective efforts are
based on the basic assumption: Humanity of
people is not quite right, but not quite lost. There
is a way out, hope.
It must be understood that in the Comenius
era Europe finds itself on the brink of
destruction as a result of war, religious and
political rampage. People seek their own
welfare regardless of the public welfare. But
of course, the welfare of any individual is not
possible without the public welfare. That is
why Comenius invites all people to consult
on the remedy. But the question is whether
this whole issue is not a utopian idea? Does
Comenius not make the old mistake believing that
if people have the right knowledge, they will also
act correctly? Some statements of Jan Amos
may sound like this, but the whole work gives a
different impression. Comenius leads to "true
knowledge" though, because much of the human
confusion and many ills result from errors or
simple ignorance (he himself was wrong about
many things). However, at the same time, he is
aware that the violation of humanity is not just a
matter of common sense. It is necessary to
know, to want and to be able, he often repeats .
The remedy must therefore also apply to the will,
character and the whole personality. And
according to Comenius, it will not work without
repentance, reconciliation and a return to God.
What does the concept of human affairs mean?
Who are we? What makes us human? Comenius
declares three areas: education, religion, politics.
These general topics cover a number of specific
human capacities, which are also the outline of
this prayer guide.
In his tract Unum necessarium (One necessary
thing), which is a sort of Comenius last will, he
writes the following sentence: „I give thanks to my
God who wanted me to be a man of desire
throughout my life. And even though he allowed me
to fall into various labyrinths, he led me out of many
again.” We, too, may feel that we are in the midst of a
variety of labyrinths, both personal and social, from
which we do not see a clear way out, but if we remain,
according to Comenius, people of desire for God and
goodness, our efforts to rectify are not in vain.
May your common prayers be a blessed time before God's face.
We also thank Doc. PhDr. Jan Hábl, Ph.D and
Mgr. Tereza Ráchel Bícová for their great
contribution to the content of this guide .
RAISING MONEY
ACTIVITY OF THE ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
It is our tradition to ask you to raise money during
prayer meetings, too. This time we would like to
donate the proceeds for the needs of CEA project
called M4Ready.
This is a program we created this year
together with church leaders and church planters
from more than 10 countries. This is a 10-month
training program for potential church planters or
for the people who want to learn more about
church planting. It is designed primarily for
younger leaders and includes 6 modules - church
planting, personal development, evangelization,
teamwork, communication and discipleship. About
12 short videos and practical tasks focused on the
application of important skills are made for each
module. The online course will be accompanied
by individual mentoring, group meetings of
participants and a visit to an inspiring event or
congregation in the Czech Republic . More
information is available at www.ea.cz. The
program will be launched in early 2020 .
You can send your gifts for this purpose with the
variable symbol 2120 to the account of ČEA -
account no. 13808359/2010. Thank you in
advance for your generosity.
If you would rather support any other projects of
the CEA or its activities in general, you can send
your donations to the account number
13808359/2010 with variable symbol 2100 or
use the CEA donor gateway for immediate and
simple sending of your support.
O F F E R S :
- 10-month training program
– about 80 practical videos in the online part of the course
- relevant skills challenges
- meeting and interacting with practising
educators and mentors
- a deeper analysis of the participants'
personality and talent and their possible
role in church planting or other areas of
ministry
- the experience of founders from several
European countries
- a range of practical experience and skills
useful for functioning and leadership in a
mission-oriented church environment
-
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
GOVERNMENT, POLITICS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Biblical texts: Rom 7:14-25; Ps 85
Komensky quotes:
SUND AY 5 - 1 - 2020
" He who does not control himself cannot rule others.”
„ What do you want others to do to you, do to them.
This is the summary of the God's law.”
What kind of politics has a future? Comenius says
that politics results from the human need for order
and peace. We desire to live in an orderly world
where there is peace and where it is safe. The task
of politics is to shape such a world.
Comenius himself personally suffered
political misfortunes more than once. Perhaps he
was most affected by the infamous patent by
Ferdinand II. in 1628, which set a deadline of six
months in which all non-Catholics (from noble
families only) had to leave the country . At that time
Comenius had no idea he would never be allowed
to return to his homeland. He remained in exile for
forty-two years until his death. In Leszno, the Unity
joined the descendants of exiles from the previous
century who also fled the country and found relative
safety. So, it is no wonder that Comenius spent his
whole life dealing with "redress" of politics.
Politics is made by people, and people's
problem is that as a result of sin they put their
personal interests first. Comenius writes about
it:
„Everyone thinks that only he is right, and the
others are crazy. Everyone cares and strives only for
his own good (or for the good of only those to whom
he belongs) and does not care for others. On the
contrary, envy and fear of someone else being able to
get something before we can get it, emerge.
Anyone who can grab something will do it as if we were
participating in a game in which the good things are for
those who can grab it from others. Some do not even
save human blood if they can benefit from it. A man kills
and robs another man, a group of people another group,
a nation other nations. “
Thus, the policy that has a future is the one that
takes into account that the welfare of an individual is not
sustainable in the long term without the welfare of the
whole. Whoever rules must not abuse their power and
prioritize their own personal interests above the interests
of the whole. Each person is in a subordinate position to
someone and superior to someone, respectively
someone "rules" over them and they "rule" over
someone. Only the ones who can control themselves
can rule well.
But who can perfectly control themselves? After
all, even the apostle Paul could not recognize himself
in his own acts Although he wanted to do good and he
even internally agreed with it, he committed evil. How
many times in your life do people make a promise, or
they promise never to do this or that again, that they
won't drink again or lose weight within a year. And yet
again and again they witness the failure of their own will.
„"What a pitiable man am I!" the apostle laments in the
conclusion to his self-reflection. But it's not a cry in vain.
It suggests a way out, hope: „ Who will deliver me from
this body of death? Only thank God and through Jesus
Christ our Lord! “ (Rom 7:14-25
Just like there is no perfect man, because we are
all sinners far from the glory of God, nor there is a
perfect politician who would perfectly rule over himself
and thus he would meet the demanding criterion for
ruling over others. But a politician who knows about his
sin will be a humble and above all repentant politician.
And that is exactly this kind of politicians we need.
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
Prayers:
God of all wisdom, we ask you to inspire, address and guide our political representatives in
these difficult and divided times. Let great women and men rise, women and men at all levels
who will be people of peace, integrity, astonishing courage, and the ability to lead us
to good decisions and hope for the future. Give us leaders who will put all people's interests
above their own.
Let us pray for:
ourselves to be a blessing in our neighbourhoods and communities
new energy and a will for good governance at all levels
the ones in power in our city and in our country the
deputies and senators elected for our region
the greatest needs and pains of our city or village
the political situation of our country and the ability to resist populism, authoritarianism and
abuse of power
the Church to be an increasing blessing in public space and to be a positive and
convincing voice that will defend good and justice, especially for the weak, lonely and
vulnerable
the courage to solve long-term problems going on beyond one term
that as many politicians and people in power as possible recognize their sinfulness
and rule with humility and fear of God
us to be people of hope who bring joy, faith, peace, truth, depth and genuine interest in
others amid cynicism and scepticism
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
LANGUAGE, SPEECH AND MEDIA
MONDAY 6 - 1- 2020
Biblical texts: Prov 12:12-22, John 1:1-14, Ef 4:25
Comenius quotes:
„ Be kind to all but adulate no one!”
„ Say nothing other than what there really is.”
The word has great power - both in a positive
and a negative sense. You should consider them
carefully before letting them out. When Comenius,
as a relatively young scholar, wrote his famous The
Great Didactic (Didactica Magna), he sent it to
some colleagues whom he respected to review it.
Certain Joachim Hübner criticized his work so
severely that Comenius did not dare to publish it. It
was not until 1657 when the book was published as
a part of the collection of all didactic tracts that
Comenius had written throughout his life Today
Comenius Didactics is one of the pedagogical
jewels of (not only) Czech literature. Joachim
Hübner is a forgotten historical figure.
The aim of the Comenius Consultation was a
redeeming renewal of the whole human community.
For that purpose, he proposed very pragmatically
that the nations should unite to use a single
language that could be understood by all. After all,
this was originally the case, the linguistic
misunderstanding of people is only a consequence
of Babylon's arrogance. And it can be expected that
the language of the Kingdom of Heaven will again
be unified. So why not prepare the way for this
future perfect unity now?
Comenius did not intend to replace native languages with a universal one, but he recommended that native languages should be refined so that they were able to communicate all the wisdom of God that is available for people - whether in nature or in Scripture. In addition to it, he recommends everyone to adopt a common, universal language that would both facilitate communication with others and make it possible for all nations to unite in praise of the Creator.
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
That man has the ability to speak, that we dispose of concepts and can name things all that is remarkable
and unique. According to Comenius, this is because we are the bearers of God's image. Speech was and should
be the medium of truth, blessing, and even salvation.
When we speak of the media as the "stimulants" of human affairs today, it is, of course, in the figurative
sense. Nevertheless, Comenius's “media” project offers a lot of stimulating material . As at that time, it is still
the case now that there is future for the media which are true and will help understanding among people . It
is in this area where we have a fundamental problem: although we have speech, we do not understand each
other so often. We can overcome language barriers, yet human language is not a medium of trut h or
humanity. Too often, the word that was supposed to transmit blessings transmits a curse . Many times, we lie
straightforwardly - to each other and, also to ourselves. Someone "gossips, as if stabbing with a sword",
another one tattles, someone else spreads lies, another one scares, defames, blabs, distorts, invents,
manipulates, humiliates, betrays, comes with fake news ... And only few people keep their promises.
Yet the pursuit of life in truth and mutual understanding belongs to man . To give it up would mean giving up
something essential for our humanity. Understanding brings peace and joy into human relationships .
According to Comenius, truthfulness as a character trait is something that needs to be learned. What would
the true media look like? What would the world where I can rely on another person's word look like? What
would it be like if every time someone opened their mouth it would bring benefits and blessings to others?
Prayers:
God of all truth, we are surrounded by so much information and communications through which
we perceive what is real that we often do not see the true reality of your kingdom. Give us ears
to hear so that through the noise around we can always hear your so often silent voice when
you speak to us. Forgive our sin, which makes us deaf to you and, also to others. Let our words
lift others and reflect your character. Forgive us for our exaggerated scepticism, cynicism and
complaints which don't see how much we have from you.
Let us pray:
that our own words lift others around us
for the courage to speak and confront in the moments when we should not be silent, but
always with respect and humility
for the environment of openness, sincerity and vulnerability in the Church
for the preservation of freedom of speech and expression
for independent media and high-quality journalism that will bring the truest picture of the
reality
for being a comprehensible church, whose story and message will be a
convincing testimony
that as a church we will be able to listen to the world, but at the same time with the
courage to be a gospel community and prophetic people
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
ENTERPRISE AND BUSINESS
M O ND AY 7 - 1 - 2 0 2 0
Biblical texts: Mt 11:28-29, 1. Cor 10:31 and 12:4-7
Comenius quotes:
„ Everyone should care not only for their own
benefit, but for the benefit of the society.”
„ The work goes well when it is honest and to the
glory of God.”
Of course, Comenius did not use the word
business. In his vocabulary, we find words such
as zeal, sedulity, economy, diligence or
entrepreneurship, and he even speaks of
creative wisdom. These are opposites of
concepts such as idleness, laziness or
aimlessness. Comenius himself was extremely
hardworking. Throughout his life he wrote about
200 writings. He worked systematically for
almost forty years on some works, such as the
encyclopaedic writings e.g. Treasure of the
Czech language or the Theatre of All Things, as
well as on Consultation. When Leszno caught
fire, Comenius lost everything. Specifically, he
already had the clean copy of Consultation
almost finished and ready for its publication. „
Alas, everything is lost… what was prepared for
the letterpress,” Comenius despairs in his letter
to J. Rültz in June 1656. t is incredible and
admirable that Comenius did not get frustrated.
As early as September 1st of the same year, he
wrote in a letter to his friends that he was going to
start work again to "pick up the shards of his
broken containers and somehow stick them
together again", and he continues in another letter:
„ I will finish without any delay and let come to
light the sparks which may have been left in
me.“.
Man is an enterprising being and doing
nothing kills him. According to Comenius, the
wisdom of God made it impossible for man to
"get none of this without work, because
movement and employment are good in
themselves. “The reason is that “lazy and
unworthy people lack the pleasures of life and the
hardworking people enjoy the work more. “
But whatever man does, he needs it to make
sense. Comenius gives surprisingly practical
advice on entrepreneurship.
First of all, one has to clarify the goal of his
business and then whether he possesses the
appropriate means and ways. Without them, it
would be better not to start the business at all.
And when the entrepreneur starts work,
Comenius advised not to wait for others in
anything „what you could do on your own.“ And
he adds a timeless anti procrastination
recommendation: „ Avoid postponing for tomorrow
what can happen today.“ He also shows almost
managerial intuition when it advises not to let
yourself be distracted by an excessive number of
businesses: „ It is the essence of wisdom not to get
too distracted in business, be it thoughts, words,
deeds or endeavours. For the efficiency decreases
when splitted “
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
Comenius also thought about who to do business with. First, he states pragmatically that “we live in a
corrupt world and we cannot avoid the companionship of bad people”. He also admits that “we are not angels and
we do not contribute to heavenly purity because we are still only clay “. That is why he strongly recommends
“getting involved in associations with bad people as little as possible, so that it does not lead us out of the path of
virtue. “In other words, “contact with people always leaves an imprint. When we associate with what is good,
educated and wise, we also become good, educated and wise . When we associate with what is wrong, stupid and
wicked, we also become bad, stupid and wicked.“ That is why he concludes with a resolute appeal: “Put an end to
what you are doing with a perfidious or wicked person as quickly as possible .“
Comenius summarizes the success of all human business into three principles :
1) Look for a source rather than for a trickle, rather for God than for wealth. It means strive for quality rather than for quantity.
2) Make this spring the tributary of your garden. That means - treat resources in a gentle and sparing way.
3) Content yourself with what comes in and enjoy it gratefully, do not accumulate at the expense of others .
According to Comenius, such a business has a future.
Prayers:
God the Creator, thank you for the gift of work and rest. For inviting us to be the creators and
stewards of your creation, too, to rejoice in the fruits of our actions and business and to find deep
sense in it. May we be light and salt, even where work is turning into drudgery and where our
workplaces are exposed to futility or sin. Give courage, inspiration, wisdom. open doors, the right
collaborators, humility and perseverance to people doing business in fear of you.
Let us pray for:
our employers and companies; thank you for the work we have
our co-workers, employees, superiors etc .
entrepreneurs in the Church and specifically in your parishes and communities (you can ask
them to share, how and what to pray for)
forgiveness where we despise people just because they are rich or on the contrary
where we tend to abuse them for their generosity
protection against temptations in business and employment
rest and renewal where we lose energy, courage, enthusiasm or direction in work or
business
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
FAITH, SPIRITUALITY, RELIGION
WEDN ESD AY 8 - 1 - 2 02 0
Biblical texts: Mt 5:13-16, Ř 12:1-2, Col 3:1-13
Comenius quotes:
„ The goal of all piety is reconciliation with God.”
„ I learned to seek true satisfaction of mind in
God.”
In 1631 Leszno was hit by a plague. The locals
were both inexperienced and superstitious. They
were looking for the culprit, blaming anyone, each
other, and especially the sick for the disaster. They
also treated them accordingly: they expelled them
from the cities or on the contrary they closed them
in homes where the sick died in a terrible way
without help. Comenius - otherwise a man of mild
nature - was very angry. Is this how a Christian
believer behaves? On this occasion, he wrote a
brief writing, Short Report on Plague, explaining
how Christians should take care of sick and dying
people. In addition to practical hygienic and
medical advice, it also clarifies theology - in the
face of death the fact of eternal life is a source of
strength. The Unity of Brethren back then in
Leszno proved the sincerity of their faith through
the acts of mercy.
Things tend to deteriorate. Salami or a
banana spoils, air goes bad or tooth gets
damaged. But what if the character spoils? Man
cannot be repaired as easily as a broken thing or
a machine. Man has brain, will, heart, memories,
past… Comenius believed that man also had a
future, that man could be corrected for eternity.
If the cause of corruption is the fact that man has
lost his relationship with his Creator, then the
remedy will be to restore that relationship .
God Himself goes to meet man, He comes into
the world of people in a form understandable to
humanity, in the person of Jesus Christ. He
does not revile, does not rail against people, he
is not disillusioned or taken aback by human
evil - for he has come because of that . He takes
it upon himself and overcomes it. His sacrifice
shows that love is stronger than death. He gains
the heart of man and makes it desire for or even
fall in love with what is good, true and beautiful.
This cannot be enforced. Love is gained only by
love. Therefore, the Saviour sacrifices himself for
everything that man has ever spoiled.
The human heart reacts with a plea for forgiveness.
Only a haughty man believes he has never failed in
anything, so he does not need to beg for
forgiveness. Therefore, he will not be forgiven. But
he who asks will be given, let in, forgiven,
reconciled, healed. And the one who is forgiven,
can forgive others. Reconciliation with God thus has
enormous impact on interpersonal relationships.
Comenius repeats many times that man is given an
inner eagerness for the highest good. But the
natural desire to honour someone better than one's
self is spoiled in man by the unnatural desire to be
equal to God. In fact, through various idols, man
worships himself. Then, according to Comenius,
man “falls into being a non-human”. All wars,
violence, suffering, superstition and confusion are,
according to Comenius, the consequence of this
undesirable curvature within one's self.
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
Comenius also dealt with the question of different religions. All religions somehow answer three fundamental questions:
1) The origin of man, where are we from?
2) The purpose of man, why are we here?
3) The fate of man, where are we going?
Different religions respond differently. It is necessary to learn to distinguish what each religion teaches. What we
believe becomes who we are.
Comenius encourages his readers to listen to others when it comes to this:” Devotion which should make us
like God should be something completely kind . So how can it be that we cannot bear those who differ from us
in their faith? … Is it just me who holds to the only one true and saving religion? Of course, I hope so, but others
hope they are on the right path, too . So, it is necessary to research where the truth is and where the error is. But I
will not be able to research, distinguish and decide until I know what opinion others have. So, I must learn and be
ready to accept whatever I find better. “
He was worried about the religious disputes that Europe was full of at the time and which were also the cause of
his departure from his native country. He saw the way out in changes which should start from the essential issues
and matters first, “for reforming only rituals or external things is as the same as dressing the patient with beautiful
clothes when he needs a thorough healing . … General redress will not go forward unless the individuals reform
everyone separately; after all, the summary consists of units. The renewal of an individual is called re-creation or
rebirth. “
Prayers:
God of all joy and reconciliation, let us see how much we have been forgiven so that we may
not stop forgiving ourselves. Dress us with compassion, goodness, modesty, humility, and
patience to bear with each other. Give us the ability to distinguish between the essential things
and the supporting ones.
Let us pray:
that God will "sprinkle our lips with salt" to thirst for Him; for the inner eagerness of
God
that we will learn to dwell in God's presence and prayer, which will not be only a duty and an
exercise for us, but a space where we open our struggles and questions in sincerity
for deep conversations with those who believe differently than we do
or do not believe at all
for our unbelieving friends that God will address them and draw them
to Him
evangelistic activities of fellowships and churches in our city
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
EDUCATION
THURSDAY 9 - 1 - 2 0 2 0
Biblical texts : Lk 2:41-52
Comenius quotes:
„ Such the next age will be as its future citizens are
brought up.”
„ Schools should be workshops of humanity, not
torture-hamber of mind.”
When Comenius was twelve years old, he
lost his father, mother and two sisters in a short
period, probably due to the plague. He was
taken up by guardians from extended family and
they involved Comenius in physical work, there
was no time for education. As an orphan,
Comenius realized painfully, and very
intensively, how precious and not granted some
things, especially quality education, are . Later
when he was given the opportunity to go to
school in Přerov again, he was the most d iligent
and ardent student of all. His talent was
recognized by the Rector and Bishop Jan
Lánecký, who accepted the orphan into his
family as a son. He gave him the name of Amos.
When Comenius grew up, he thought a lot
about education. He considered education and
upbringing to be the main point of the rectification
of human affairs. "Such the next age will be as its
future citizens are brought up," he says, adding
that schools should serve children as "workshops
of humanity".
Comenius did not see remedy only in
knowledge itself, though he considered it
important. He was aware that the violation of
humanity was not just about brain. Many times, he
repeats the need to know, want and be able to act
correctly. The rectification of human affairs must
include all elements of humanity, both in individual
and social context.
Comenius also often refers to education as
to art. It is a specific and subtle skill of handling
things in accordance with their natural nature,
not to distort them, not to act violently against
their substance, not to misuse them . For
example, speech is to be used to convey truth,
not to deceive your neighbour . Or fire to warm
the house, not for wars, singing to worship God,
not to disgrace, etc. This motive has profound
implications for the educational treatment of man.
This is a fundamental assumption - that being
has a harmonious order. The educator's work
consists in introducing a person (child) into this
order. And, of course, this cannot and must not
happen in a violent way, even if man suffers from
the tendency to be “a nuisance”. Hence the famous
motto that Comenius inscribed on the front page
of one of his works: Omnia sponte fluant, absit
violentia rebus (Let everything flow naturally and
without violent actions .)
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
Comenius is known to have divided the educational system into developmental stages in his early
didactic writings - from the maternal lap to the academy - which is basically still relevant today . In the
Consultation, he added to those four basic levels so-called school of youth, school of adulthood, school of old age
and school of death. Many consider him to be the founder of lifelong education . However, it is obvious from the
names of individual “schools” that Comenius did not mean any kind of requalification for better employment in
the labour market. Comenius notices that man always has something to learn, always where to grow, always
to improve, until the very last day of your life .
Education that has a future develops the whole person. The task of school is not only to prepare for future
employment, but above all to develop humanity. The educated man is an educated man, moral and pious.
Morality-free learning is dangerous for society. And learning without devotion is dangerous even deadly - in terms
of eternity. School helps a person become what he should be - the image of God. It develops all elements of
humanity in a coherent way: cognitive, moral and spiritual. It brings man out of self -centeredness and brings him in
harmony with the whole - with the nature and with humans. That one is educated who knows what is good, wants
good and does good, “even if no one else is watching “.
Prayers:
God, the beginning of wisdom is the fear of you. We never knew more about the world
around us, and yet we are not much more sensible. You give us a constant desire to
explore every secret of your creation from the smallest particles to the dark matter. Give
us the same desire to learn from you what is good and what is bad.
Let us pray:
for the teachers to have strength over all obstacles and duties to teach well and with
love for children; for our children's teachers
for those teachers who are at risk of burnout or they are tired, may God raise them,
and may they find the necessary support
for the schools in our city and their managements so that they become an
environment where children will receive not only good education but also the right
values (www.adoptujskolu.cz)
for us to be of help to our children when they confess to their faith at school and meet
other values and a different worldview
for educational reforms that can affect future generations
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
CULTURE, BEAUTY, ART
FRIDAY 1 0 - 1 - 2 0 2 0
Biblical texts : Eccl 3:11, Ps 19: 2, Ps 148, Mt 13,45-
46
Comenius quotes:
„ If one does not see the beauty in the world, he sees little. “
„ What a misery when our divine mind mirrors the
monstrous ghosts of things instead of their
beautiful images. “
Culture is rooted in the word cult. Culture is
what its cult is. The question is, what is our cult?
What do we honour? What do we bow to? What
do we let cultivate us? What or who do we listen
to? What are we looking at? What do we feed on?
Not all cults are good, true and above all beautiful.
Comenius sees beauty primarily in natural things, in
the natural world, in nature itself. It refers to the
original meaning of the word "cosmos", which means
"beautiful." He sees the world and all creation as a
theatre or a gallery of beauty. This is what he speaks
about in his early writing Theatre of all things.
Unfortunately, the work burned down, but
fragments have been preserved, thanks to which
we can at least partly understand Comenius
concept:
„ Not without cause the world is called
cosmos, ie beautiful in the Greek language; and
mundus, ie pure in the Latin. For everything in it
is beautiful, pure, pleasing and graceful, painting
the invisible God with visible beauty.
Who does not see the beauty in the world, sees
little”
According to Comenius, the source of beauty is
obvious. The divine origin makes the created
world remarkable, magnificent and harmonious.
The observer is a spectator who is to be amazed.
Man is literally invited to enter as an actor-
participant on the stage of the world theatre and to
participate in a story written by the author-creator.
The point is to play the given role well, truthfully
and beautifully.
But it would be a mistake to conclude that the
grandeur of creation led Comenius to romanticize
human nature. Comenius also writes in the Theatre
about “breaking, misleading and entangling man and
all his affairs, in his soul and body “. And in the later
Consultation, Comenius sighs above the
consequences of violation of humanity: „ What a
misery when our divine mind mirrors the
monstrous ghosts of things instead of their
beautiful images. ” Beauty and ugliness have
special powers. They change those who often
touch them or take part in them .
The concept of beauty as such is a puzzle to us.
If beauty is divine, as Comenius says, it is not in
human power to define it. But even if we cannot
describe it in its entirety, we still know it. True art
thus begins with amazement and humility before
the majesty of beauty.
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
According to Comenius, beauty is notable. How can we perceive it? Where does it come from? How is it created?
Comenius believed that the world is a masterpiece by a divine artist. We know of beauty because we were created for
it. Every artist tries to capture or imitate the beauty of this world. Both material and intangible - a picture, music, garden
or character. Every person is an artist because every person is able to create. The beauty we spread around us
influences us back, makes us beautiful. Art that has a future is beautiful art.
Prayers:
God, remember the artists. Be merciful to them and bless those who reflect both the beauty
and illness, both the strength and weakness of the human spirit. Creator, bless all who
create according to your image. Those who give us a new insight, allow us to feel and
experience reality, sometimes beautiful, other times ugly. Thanks for their inspiration, which
awakes amazement and astonishment at the size and depth of life. Don't the artists prove
that we have a share in Your nature? God, teach us to perceive your beauty and the beauty
around us in all its forms.
Let us pray:
and let us thank you for the gift of art and beauty in many of their forms that touch us
deep inside
for artists and creative people - actors, poets, dancers, painters, photographers, writers,
filmmakers, sculptors, musicians, computer game creators and others
that the Church can understand, perceive and appreciate art and be in a
dialogue with it
for leaders and praise teams in our churches and
parishes
for other authentic and original artists in the Church
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
FAMILY
SATURDAY 1 1 - 1 - 2 0 2 0
Biblical texts : Ecc 4:8-12, Ef 5:21-33,
Comenius quotes:
„ The best solution to remorse is mutual
forgiveness.”
„ Everything in this world can only be corrected by
love, otherwise it is impossible.”
How was Comenius as a husband? We do not
know much about this, but something can be
read from indirect sources. After the Battle of
White Mountain, Comenius was forced to hide.
For the safety of himself and his close ones he
decided to leave the family in Přerov, which
was still under the protection of Žerotín, hiding
himself in various places in northern Moravia,
probably around Žerotín estates.
For several years, the region was plundered by
troops, which besides looting and violence usually
brought plague and other infections. In some of his
"hiding places" Comenius sensed that his wife's
heart was full of "grief and sorrow," and therefore, to
please her and other close ones, he wrote a short
writing entitled "Thinking of Christian Perfection,"
explaining that full perfection of man hard-pressed
by adversities consists in total devotion to God. The
book is accompanied by his personal letter dated
February 18, 1622, in which we can read today's
renowned addressing: “My dear wife, Mandalena,
my jewel, after the Lord God dearest to me .“ The
letter also tells us that Comenius's wife was
expecting a second child, and Comenius wishes her
to "happily survive" the offspring's arrival. However,
Magdalena never read the letter or the book. She
died as a result of the plague epidemics and both the
children with her, and Comenius never saw his
second child.
No one should be alone. That is why we
are born to parents and to our family. The family
works well when it is based on love, fidelity and
respect. Good parents love their children and
care for them . Good children love their parents
and honour them. But it often does not work like
that. we are able to hurt the closest. Therefore, it
is necessary to learn forgiveness .
It sounds simple, but in real life the
cohabitation of families and people is
complicated. Comenius notices that
complications can occur at the very time of birth.
For children are not always perceived as
"precious treasures of God", not always family
conditions are comforted, whether with regard to
socio-economic situation or to relationships .
Comenius sees children as "new little citizens of
the world and the next heirs of eternity". Beings
who are to exist forever, having eternal value.
Therefore, they should be given the highest
attention, from an early childhood. Comenius
points out to parents that "what is inculcated at
the first age" remains constant and firm.
Attention must be given to habits in particular
because "a habit becomes natural" . And if man's
nature or character is to be good, his habits must be
good. A bad habit will torment man and his
surroundings throughout his life, and in his old age it
will become "intolerable and irreparable."
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
In the spirit of Biblical traditions, he advises to the couples about mutual respect, love and care as a guide to
family happiness. But at the same time, he sees that such a condition is not always granted. Couples tend to be
unfaithful, men drinkers, women licentious. Children are usually neglected in both morals and piety . Spoiled and
brash rakes from wealthy families who boast of their origins are a special chapter. It is, of course, the fault of their
parents - where else would children see the contempt for the poor?
It is not good for man to be alone. We need each other. That is why the Creator created man as a man and a
woman. One can experience the greatest joy and intimacy only just in marriage and family . At the same time, however,
we are sinful beings able to cause the greatest hell and suffering in our closest relationships. We are in discord, passing
each other, hurting and getting hurt. The only solution, says Comenius, is love. But not ordinary love. It is a special quality
or aspect of love that does not seek its own benefit, does not count injustices, does not enjoy the wickedness, does not
boast, is not arrogant… Such will persist, even if other things pass away. A family based on such love has a future .
Prayers:
God the Father, thank you for loving us, even if you know all the nooks and crannies of our soul
and our relationships. Thank you for the gift of family, community and friendship. For
relationships where we can be ourselves and where we can be as vulnerable and close as
people can be to each other. Thank you for the gift of marriage and the gift of living without it.
Give strength to anyone for whom family or marriage are more of a trial and a sorrow than a joy.
Give us to guide and love our children the way you love us.
Let us pray:
for the fullness of joy, respect and depth in our families and marriages
for marriage in crises where husband and wife are estranged or are heading for divorce
for those suffering from loneliness or separation (orphans, prisoners, divorced, lonely
seniors, widowed, other lonely people around us)
for our relatives who do not know God or who have left God
for forgiveness and reconciliation in families divided by strife and
anger
for children and wise parenting and upbringing
for all who bear some heavy burden of caring for their loved ones
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
CHURCH
SUND AY 1 2 - 1 - 2 0 2 0
Biblical texts : PS 133, John 17:22-23
Comenius quotes:
“Anywhere, the cleaner the church is, the less
obsession, witchcraft and superstition is seen.”
„ Unity is the foundation, link, and culmination of all
things - it is invincible.“
What church has a future? Since his studies,
Comenius had been striving for reconciliation
between individual confessions, denominations,
nations, even religions. He based his belief on
the basic assumption that "nothing violent can
last long, let alone for eternity," and also that “the
truth becomes unwelcome when violently forced“.
He therefore strove for the improvement of
human and ecclesiastic affairs peacefully.
Reconciliation and unity were such a value for
Comenius that he was willing to risk his own
existential position. For example, when the
important council of the Colloquium Charitativum
was held in Torun, Poland, in 1645, with the aim
of contributing to the reconciliation of the
Catholic and Protestant parties, Comenius took
part in it, even though his Swedish breadwinners
in that time clearly expressed they didn't want it.
It was not in line with their war strategy .
The Council did not achieve the desired
goal, but Comenius did not give up. Throughout
his life, he was calling the faithful of all faiths to
consultation on the improvement or reformation .
He was convinced that if people were rightly
connected to things through true education, with
each other through true politics, and with God
through true religion, it would be a true
improvement of human things that would excel
above all reforms. He considered the true and
perfect reformation the one which makes people
really reformed - that is, really educated, really
pious and really peaceful.
Comenius knew that the Reformation was not
a one-off event, but a continuous process. If anything
is ever corrected or improved, there is no guarantee
that it will remain like this forever. Every coming
generation of the Church must struggle again and
again for truth, holiness and love in relation to God.
"For we love God to the extent that we know Him,"
concludes Comenius.
According to Comenius, what church has a future? Anyone believes they are the true followers of Christ. The authenticity, however, according to Comenius can be recognized by two signs:
1) The true Church brings peace and strives for reconciliation and unity. On the other hand, a contentious, militant
church, revelling in violence - whether physical (as in the Comenius era) or psychological - does not last long.
2) The true Church is being reforming all the time. Just as every person needs the daily renewal of the spirit through
repentance and forgiveness, so the Church needs to renew itself in order not to lose the original truth and love .
The Lord longs for his "bride", holy and pure, spotless and without wrinkles. One like that will stand before his face one
day. And now it is about me to stand there, too.
Prayers:
Jesus Christ, who is the Lord of the Church, we pray for our spiritual leaders to have the
courage to guide us before your face in truth and grace. That the gospel should renew our
broken humanity. Change the disgrace and contempt faced by the Church in this nation
and forgive us in all cases where we are their cause. Wake up your church to proclaim and
live your good news with new courage and conviction. Renew us so that due to the love we
have to each other, the world will know that you are alive. To believe in your name and to
understand your love for every man, for every family and every city in this country .
Let us pray:
for the Church to renew its mission again and again through deeper knowledge of God
Himself and of His purposes
for Elder Preachers and Church leaders; for a new generation of preachers who are
lacking
for the universal renewal of the Church
for generosity in love, respect and cooperation among churches, despite
our differences
for unity in our churches and cooperation of churches in our city
LIST OF PRAYER ASSEMBLIES
A L L I A N C E W E E K O F P R A Y E R S
5 - 1 2 J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0
SUNDAY 5-1
MONDAY 6-1
TUESDAY 7-1
WEDNESDAY 8-1
THURSDAY 9-1
FRIDAY 10-1
SATURDAY
11-1
SUNDAY 12-1
CONSULTATION ON THE IMPROVEMENT
The Christian Youth Academy, in cooperation with other partner organizations, has
prepared a project called Comenius 2020, which is aimed at young people (mainly
by linking schools and churches) and can also serve as an evangelistic tool for
local churches. The project wants to use the anniversary of 350 years since the
death of Jan Amos Comenius to popularize and spread his spiritual legacy and
ideas.
At http://www.Comenius2020.cz/ website you can read find out what is going on at
the national level. The initiative invites schools, churches, scouts, libraries as well as
individuals to consult on our present world, on the state of human affairs. However, it
is based on the belief that it is not enough only to talk about what needs to be
improved - it also needs something good to be done. Pupils, students, youth groups,
adolescents or the whole churches can participate in the project by rectifying
something specific in their community.
Public reading "Czech Republic reads Comenius" is also going to take place, for which
the initiative has published the book The Best of Comenius's General Consultations on
the Improvement of Human Affairs. It is also possible to order the Comenius Timeline
exhibition for free. Lectures, symposia and theatre performances are going to be held,
too, within the project.
o
ALLIANCE WEEK OF PRAYERS 2020
"And if in anything I was like a crazy pilgrim, behold, I
am about to abandon it, and at the end of my life I
want to do that good business with that good buyer,
who did not seek anything but a precious pearl and
having found it, he sold all and bought it. You, good
Jesus, already fully have my only pearl, to be my
treasure, my only need, I only want to buy and seek
you; I will sell everything for you; You, Lord Jesus, you
are to be my gain, and whatever the world regards
as gain, I regard as an excrement. My last concern
shall be: Learn to die to this life and be born to the
future life."
John Amos Comenius
CZECH EVANGELICAL ALLIANCE
WWW.EA.CZ