The World Day of Prayer dates back to the 19th century when Christian women in the United States and Canada initiated a variety of activities in support of women’s involvement in missionary work at home and abroad. The emphasis on women praying together led to annual days of prayer. This has evolved over the years with more denominations and countries taking part. Today 146 countries are involved across the globe on the same day.
This year it is the turn of Christian women in Nigeria to prepare the service. The focus is on coming closer to God and finding rest in Him. The stories of four Nigerian women who inspire us to work towards a world without injustice, religious persecution or poverty are shared in the service.
The WDP has been held on the first Friday in March since 1969. Being an ecumenical venture, several churches in Welling take it in turns to host the annual service. This year it is the turn of St Stephen’s. So if you’ve never tried one of these services before, now is a good time to start. I have attended the service most years since I came to Welling well over 40 years ago, and always find it quite inspirational.
As the service is always prepared by women, for many years it was known as the Women’s World Day of Prayer, and men were discouraged from taking part. But times are changing, and this year there will be some male participation and we hope to welcome some men in the congregation too. Additionally, Welling has the tradition of inviting the lady mayoress each year, so we welcome her to St Stephen’s this time.
The WDP will be on Friday 6th March at 1.45pm and will be followed by refreshments in the small hall. It will be over in time for picking up children from school.