World Day of Prayer is a reminder of the differences and similarities around the globe and a chance to remember the plight of people living in very different situations.
Maidstone's World Day of Prayer service was held on a Friday afternoon at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Members of local Lutheran, United, Anglican and Catholic congregations participated in the reading of the reflections and prayers.
This year the theme was "Let Justice Prevail." The brief program was prepared by women in Malaysia. A description of the country and lifestyle of Malaysia was read and prayers focused on a desire for truth, peace and justice in all countries.
Part of the service included the reading of a personal story written by a woman who has been working to shed light on and improve the living conditions of migrant workers and the oppressed. She was even arrested and convicted for her work and the legal proceedings took years to overturn the decision.
The participants prayed and sang together collecting an offering for projects to benefit women and children through a grant process helping people worldwide.
The guide to the service offered more background on the country and some traditional recipes. Those attending the service were able to sample pineapple tarts and sardine rolls. Everyone tried the snacks as part of the global experience as they prayed for the world and considered life in a very different land.
