This world-wide inter-denominational Movement began in a small way in New York in 1887. Mary Ellen James, wife of a Presbyterian minister, called the women of their church to come together for a day of prayer. By 1919 her idea had spread widely and became known as The Women’s World Day of Prayer…..it reached England in 1932.
It is now supported by more than 170 countries and islands . The Order of Service is circulated in 60 languages and 1000 dialects.
To stretch our imaginations we may think of the day starting on the International Dateline at sunrise in Tonga and ending 40 hours later at sunset in Alaska.
The first service is held at dawn in Queen Salote’s Girls School and then a great ” Mexican Wave” of prayer rolls on as the earth rotates.
Locally our Service is arranged by an ecumenical committee representing Hampstead Churches East.
We enjoy visiting each-other’s churches, and last year we were kindly invited to Gospel Oak Methodist Church. We were privileged to hear an excellent Speaker from Christian Aid who gave moving insights into family life in her part of South Africa.
This year we are hosting the afternoon here at Hampstead Parish Church at 2.30 pm on Friday March 2nd.
The Christian women of Paraguay have prepared the Service entitled ” United Under God’s Tent ” . There will be a special Speaker with knowledge of Paraguay, and we are delighted that .Judy East will be our Leader. Traditionally we close with the hymn…” The day Thou gavest, Lord, has ended “
A 75th Anniversary Tea will follow in the Crypt Room. Everyone is invited : all will be most welcome : there is no exclusivism these days !
Women’s World Day of Prayer
Barbara Scarlett-Smith