The Women's World Day of Prayer is of global dimensions, bringing together Christian women of many traditions in the observance of a common day of prayer each year. It was begun in 1887 by women in the United States, under the leadership of Mrs Darwin James, a Presbyterian Minister's wife, and has developed into a movement in which all Christians everywhere are enabled to take part in informed prayer and prayerful action. It is the largest ecumenical movement in the world organised and led by women. Scotland's first service was held in 1930, England's in 1932, followed by Wales in 1933 and Ireland in 1934.
After the Second World War, many of the strongest national committees were formed. There was a desire for peace and reconciliation and an increasing ecumenical awareness. Twelve years later an International Committee was formed to reflect the movement's world-wide nature, and representatives of the National Committees now meet every four years in different parts of the world.
The annual celebration is always held on the first Friday of March, bringing together women of various races, cultures and traditions in prayerful fellowship, understanding and action. The service is written by Christian women from a different country each year and translated into over one thousand languages. The first service of the day will be held as morning comes over the Islands of Tonga in the South Pacific. Prayers and hymns will continue throughout the day around the world until the last service takes place on St. Lawrence island, off the coast of Alaska.
The service this year will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart RC Church on Friday 3rd March, commencing 2.pm. At 7.30.pm that evening the same service will be at Christ Church, Widley. Local churches will be participating. A welcome to everybody.
Pam Dinneen
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page last updated 3 MARCH 2000