Open invite to World Day of Prayer services

ON FRIDAY, March 5 over 3 million people worldwide will be praying and worshipping together during an annual day of prayer, using a service that has been prepared by Christian women in Cameroon.
By The Newsroom
Published 25th Feb 2010, 11:01 BST
Updated 25th Feb 2010, 11:01 BST

Locally, this 'Women's World Day of Prayer' will be marked with special services at Glengormley Methodist Church on Ballyclare Road, and in St. Mary's on the Hill, Carnmoney Road.

'Let Everything That Has Breath Praise God' is the theme of both these services.

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Emma Wilcock, President of the National Commitee of the Women's World Day of Prayer Movement said: "This is always an exciting day as a great wave of prayer sweeps the world, beginning when the first service is held in the Queen Salote Girls' School in Tonga and continuing around the world until the final service takes place, some 35 hours later, in neighbouring Western Samoa.

"By then the day will have been celebrated in over 170 countries and over 5,000 services will have been held in England, Wales and Northern Ireland."

"The Republic of Cameroon is said to be 'Africa in miniature'. It is a country of great cultural diversity, with more than 240 ethnic groups and languages.

"The constitution promotes equality between men and women, but traditional rights and attitudes discriminate against women in many areas of life. However, giant steps have been taken towards assuring womens' rights and women are involved in the struggle for peace, justice and integrity.

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"Cameroon faces many challenges as its people seek to move forward into a modern age without losing their distinctive characteristics. But at all times, in all cirucmstances, Cameroonians are able to praise God with joy and exuberance and the service reflects this.

"Although organised and led by women, this is essentially a day of prayer for everybody, as we demonstrate our solidarity with our sisters and brothers in other countries, and all are welcome to attend - men, women and young people."

The local Women's World Day of Prayer services will take place at Glengormley Methodist Church at 10.30am on March 5, and at 8pm at St. Mary's on the Hill, when the speaker will be Sister Mary Jo Corcoran.

For further information on the Women's World Day of Prayer, visit the website: www.wwdp-natcomm.org