Guwahati: World Day of Prayer (WDP) is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women. The origin of World Day of Prayer dates back to the 19th Century when Christian women initiated a variety of cooperative activities in support of women’s involvement in Christian missions at home and in various parts of the world.
The theme for the WDP 2021 is “Build on a Strong Foundation” and is based on Matthew 7:24-27. Here, Jesus tells the story of the kingdom of heaven using the image of a house and the land on which the house is built. In this image, the wisdom of the builder of the house comes from hearing and acting on the Word of God. This is the foundation on which women and sisters call to build homes, nations and the world.
WDP encourages Christian women to engage in personal prayer and take leadership roles. This emphasis on prayer led to annual days and weeks of prayer in several parts of the world.
Assam Christian Forum (ACF), an ecumenical body of churches in Assam, observed the WDP on March 5th at St. Mary’s School Guwahati. The day was also observed to appreciate the ministries of women in various Christian churches irrespective of denominational affiliations; to pray for them, and to pray with them for the strengthening of the Church in its life, witness and service.
The function began with praise and worship led by Guwahati community Church and the opening prayer was given by Ms. Sunita Chowdhury. Bible reading was done by Ms. Zomuani.
Sr. Bridget FMA, the host of the programme extended a warm welcome to the participants. Special songs were performed by Salvation Army, Satribari Christian Hospital, Asia Antioch Seminary, Women Development Centre and Ms. Sumi Kalita and team.
Christian ministries of women were shared by Ms. Theresa Ao, Ms. Alemla Longkumar, Sr. Bridget Deingdoh MSMHC, Ms. Cheryl Susan Tada, Ms. Pradipta Rongpipi, Major Muani, Sr. Valsa MPV, Sr. Immacula MC, Ms. Pritty Sangma and Ms. Madhurima Pathak.
Exhortations were delivered by Rev. Roger Gaikwad, Rev. Abhishek, Mr. A.K. Goldsmith, Dr. Jayashree Hamse Bora and Mr. Allen Brooks. The felicitation was done to women in ministries by Archbishop John Moolachira the Chairman of ACF, Bishop Michael Herenz, the Bishop of CNI Church North East India and Rev. Akheto Sema the general secretary of CBCNEI.