This year’s service was prepared by the women of Nigeria – its theme “I will give you rest, come.” There were songs, hymns, prayers and a scripture reading from St Matthew.
We heard from “Chioma”, “Beatrice”, “Jato” and “Blessing” about the challenges they face in their lives – widows who lose their place in society, are badly treated by in-laws and face poverty and rejection: how although in some parts of Nigeria Christians and Muslims live happily together, in the North they live in fear of religious persecution; the problems of unemployment or not earning sufficient to live on. But even so they have faith and hope for a brighter future.
The World Day of Prayer’s services not only bring us together in prayer but also give an insight into the lives of different communities around the world