World Day of Prayer is a day observed in more than 170 countries each year on the first Friday in March. Since its origins in 1887, it has been a day urging Christians, predominantly women, to observe this special day of spirituality and belief. The theme, worldwide in 2024 was ‘Palestine – I beg you…bear with one another in love’.
And
so it was that on yet one more hot and humid day in Esk, large numbers of both
women and men gathered in the cool comfort of St Mel’s Hall to learn about this
‘Palestine’ theme, firstly through the symbols depicted on both a consummately
created illustration, and on the service booklet’s artwork…Three Palestinian
women praying. The olive tree, a sign of
everlasting and abundant life; golden roots symbolising their quest for
precious freedoms and rights; poppy flowers a reminder of loved ones who have given
their lives for their country; the key a symbol of the hope to one day return
to homes from which they were driven. Hosted
this year by the kindly women and men of St Mel’s Catholic Church, Three
Stories from Palestinian women were echoed by three women of Esk, bible
readings delivered by representatives of other Christian denominations, and prayers
offered, all punctuated with the beautiful singing by the Esk Community
Choir.
In
support of Christians in Palestine, ‘living stones’ encouraging all families
with God’s word were a parting gift. To
complete an inspiring service, the delicious morning tea was a testament to the
warmth of the Christian welcome to all those who came to celebrate and learn. We of the Esk Community Choir would like to
thank the ‘Angels’ of St Mel’s for their hospitality and the privilege of leading
in song this memorable service.
By: Sue
Walker
