2020 Women's World Day of Prayer

On Friday, March 6, 2020 the churches of Oyen once again partnered to present the service for the Women's World Day of Prayer. 

Women of the Anglican, Evangelical Missionary and Catholic churches joined the host church women of the Oyen United Church in sharing the service that was provided by the women of Zimbabwe. The service was adapted for use in Canada by the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada (WICC), which is a national ecumenical organization with a mission to empower Chrisitains to pursue justice, peace and reconciliation by standing together in prayer and action. 

We began by watching a video that introduced us to Zimbabwe it's beauty and it's challenges with specific focus on the lives of women. Then, to the music of Zimbabwe, symbols were placed on a table that was covered in the colours of the national flag. 

The scripture for today was John 5: 2-9a the story of a man who had been waiting many years for healing. Jesus came, and after asking if the man really wanted to be healed, said "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk" 

A conversation about what that might mean for us today was  presented by Rev. Helen Reed of the United Church and Rev. Dr. Catherine Holland of the Anglican Church. 

Music and prayers surrounded the scripture. 

After the service, the 50 people who were gathered enjoyed snacks with a Zimbabwean flavour including Corn Bread and Beef.

Thank you to those who came, who organized and shared their talents. 

The picture for the 2020 Wordl Day of Prayer was created by Nonhlanhla Mathe, it tells a story of moving from darkness to light, of working together, of the rich vegatation of the Zimbabwe.