World Day of Prayer is an international, inter-church organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns, and prayers. The preparation for the day is vast. An International committee is based in New York and there are national committees in each participating country. Regional conferences meet to consider the service and then local groups make their plans. 

This year we focused on Taiwan and St John’s hosted this ecumenical service with members of the eight Lymm Churches taking part in the delivery, to celebrate the service prepared by the women of Taiwan. The title for this year was “I have heard about your faith”. 

Our sisters in Taiwan sent us blessings with the service they prepared for World Day of Prayer 2023. Taiwan is an island rich in natural resources and culturally diverse. The women of Taiwan shared the issues faced geographically, politically and socially and also their hopes for the future. We joined with them as we gave thanks for the beautiful island and people of Taiwan and encouraged one another in our faith just as Apostle Paul did in his letters. 

Fifty eight people came to the service which began with a slide show depicting life in Taiwan. The reading was from Ephesians 1:15-19, followed by a reflection. We sang five hymns and a prayer response with a display of orchids setting the scene, as Taiwan is renowned for its orchids. Homemade cakes and hot drinks were provided for all our visitors many of whom expressed how much they had enjoyed the service. 

The Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer in native languages travels throughout the world --- through Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas before finishing in American Samoa some 38 hours later. For more information contact this website wwdp.org.uk. 21 Thank you to all the people who helped to: deliver the service, prepare the display, set up the projector, show the slides, bake delicious cakes, serve the refreshments and play the organ. 

Thank you to all the people who helped to: deliver the service, prepare the display, set up the projector, show the slides, bake delicious cakes, serve the refreshments and play the organ. 

The closing prayer May God hear our stories and keep us in faith. May Jesus grant us wisdom truly to know the meaning of redemption. May the Holy Spirit open our hearts so that we can be a blessing to others. Amen Chris (WDP representative for St John’s)