Imagine over 1.5 million Christians speaking 79 different languages in almost 150 countries coming together in spirit; uniting to pray for relevant issues affecting women and children. This is the reality for this tremendous movement that has been active for nearly 100 years. This year’s prayers and thoughts have been prepared by the Christians of Vanuatu.
Here in the Kingston region we have the opportunity to join together online by Zoom, hosted by St. John Roman Catholic parish. Friday March 5, 1:30 p.m. Please register in advance at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdZlBU-Ynos1_lTcBZj5Tax821MJ54MJLZt96hthQMx9-2xRg/viewform
Introduction
The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement which brings Christians of many traditions together to observe a common day of prayer each year. Through preparation and participation in the worship service, we can learn how our sisters of other countries, languages and cultures understand the Biblical passages in their context. We can hear their concerns and needs and can join in solidarity with them as we pray with and for them. In this way, it is possible to enrich our Christian faith as it grows deeper and broader in an international, ecumenical expression.
History of the World Day of Prayer in Canada
The World Day of Prayer traces its roots to the 19th century when Christian women of Canada and the United States became involved in missions at home and worldwide. Since 1812, women have encouraged one another to engage in personal prayer and lead communal prayer within their mission groups. Presbyterian women in the United States then called for a national day of prayer in 1887, and Anglican women in Canada established a national day of corporate intercessions for mission in 1895.
On October 19, 1918, Presbyterian women in Canada called together representatives of five Women’s Missionary Boards – Anglican, Baptist, Congregational, Methodist and Presbyterian – “to promote the spreading of Christ’s kingdom through united prayer and action.” That first inter-church meeting gave birth to the Interim Committee on the Federation of the Women’s Missionary Society Boards of Canada, which organized a national and inter denominational day of prayer on January 9, 1920.
In 1922, the Canadian and U.S. committees agreed to use the same theme and day for the Day of Prayer as U.S. women. This annual event became the Women’s World Day of Prayer in 1927. The Canadian committee changed its name to become the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada and now includes representatives from 11 church partners. This council continues to coordinate the World Day of Prayer in Canada and to speak to issues that concern women of faith across the country.
Read more about how and why the World Day of Prayer was founded: “A Glimpse into our History“ (International WDP website)
More Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada History
