![]() Dear sisters and friends of World Day of Prayer, It's Advent and Christmastime again. Strangely enough, this year I feel particularly close to the shepherds (Luke 2:8). They kept the flocks of sheep outside the city, in the fields, far from their warm houses and their cozy beds. Their job imposed this distance. I am reminded of the isolation into which our world has been thrown because of the pandemic, and I notice how the places of isolation have reversed. They were alone outside the cities while we are isolated inside our homes. I imagine the shepherds gathering around a fire to warm themselves by sharing stories and songs. This image comes from the festive evenings around the campfires during my childhood. But today I think of the people who set out to find a safer country than their own. No campfire or warm home awaits them. And I notice how humans, in some places, are no longer able to take care of those who need it most. The shepherds protected the sheep by their presence. Our society is desperately looking for its shepherds, its protectors. In our context today, I love to hear the words of the angel: “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” Luke's Gospel, chapter 2, verses 10-12, in its two-thousand-year-old wisdom reminds us that we can abandon all our fears. For good news is proclaimed for each of us: the birth of a Savior. And much more (verse 14): “Glory to God in the highest heaven, I hear in these words that an immense gift is given to us personally: the peace of God. It is up to us to receive the peace of God in our hearts. It is up to us to make it grow in our daily life, so that we can bring peace, justice and love into this world. I wish that God's peace be in your heart, in your home, in your city, in your country and in the world. Blessings, Laurence Gangloff, WDPIC Chairperson ¡Descarga la Carta de Navidad ahora! - Téléchargez la lettre de Noël maintenant !
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![]() The 2021 Celebration theme "Build on a Strong Foundation" has been with me spiritually since the writing process began in 2018, and especially since COVID-19 entered our lives. In the face of illness, isolation, suffering, and grief, this theme forced me to reflect on what is most important to me. The parable of the wise builder of the house on the rock helped me cling to Jesus' teaching, to keep hope alive during the storm, and to discover the part of me that, at times, made choices more like the foolish builder. For Jesus’ invitation at the end of the narrative is indeed to listen to his words of life and to act on them. In addition to the text of Matthew 7, which was the inspiration for the theme, the song composed during the writing workshop particularly touched me. The refrain invites the world: "Let us build up Vanuatu with love and unity. We are family, we are one. We are Ni-Vanuatu." What a joy to see that the intention set by the first stanza has become a reality for our sisters who did not yet know each other when they arrived to the workshop in April 2018 - "It is time to get together as a nation and family. Let's forget our differences and let us work in unity. From the North down to the South, all the islands we are one. In God we stand, brothers and sisters, we are one." The joy I felt was even greater while watching the live celebration on March 5th, 2021. I recognized all the sisters present at the same church! For me, it was like an affirmation that they had heard the invitation to work together, and that they put into practice the words of Jesus: "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12). In front of my computer screen, I experienced a moment of grace that I wish for each one of you. In the following pages of this Journal, you will discover many testimonies. Testimonies from countries or groups who may not have celebrated in person but found solutions to worship in a different way and continue building relationships. The creativity was incredible, and all the modern means of communication were used to hold a moment of prayer. You will also read that other groups were able to celebrate the World Day of Prayer in person, and that there too, the creativity was great, even extraordinary, to respect the sanitary requirements and experience a time of communion. As the preparations for next year’s celebration, written by the women of WDP England, Wales and Northern Ireland, begins we discover a word of life given by God that we can make our own: "I Know the Plans I Have for You". I cannot end these few lines without expressing my gratitude for the work of each woman involved. By offering the best of ourselves, wherever we are, we become witnesses of the risen Christ. This is a blessing! - Laurence Gangloff, WDPIC Chairperson ![]()
![]() En las reuniones por videollamada, de preparación por motivo de la pandemia y los cambios en las situaciones de vida de las integrantes del Comité, hemos considerado importante tener un tiempo para compartir individualmente cómo nos sentimos. Esto nos ha beneficiado para estrechar las relaciones, siendo un tiempo para escucharnos y fortalecernos. Oramos unas por las otras en cada situación de vida difícil, de trabajo o separación de seres queridos por fallecimiento. Buscamos al reunirnos y mantenernos cerca, actuar con empatía y solidaridad por la vida de quienes sufren para dar esperanza en medio de las dificultades y limitaciones. Las rutinas en la vida de las mujeres y su disposición de tiempo se han recargado para algunas por trabajo a distancia dentro del hogar y atención a la educación de hijas e hijos y otras horas de estudio a distancia también. Las medidas y cuidados de otras personas dentro del hogar o familia también fueron delegadas y hacia las mujeres. Estamos en oración ![]() Oramos por las familias, por personas contagiadas de COVID19, por quienes perdieron a un ser querido. Ha sido duro y dramático enfrentar la muerte de seres queridos por la manera en que se realizan los traslados y entierros de los cuerpos. Hemos conversado y reflexionado sobre el temor frente a la naturalización de las muertes a causa de COVID19 y la fragilidad en retirar la sensibilidad y empatía por las pérdidas cercanas. Observamos como situación traumática las diferentes formas de cómo se asume la pandemia en cada hogar. En medio de las restricciones, se ha enfrentado con tanta dificultad las enfermedades por la falta de acceso a la salud y servicios colapsados para atender a pacientes regulares. Estas emociones encontradas las hemos compartido, recordando que la fe en Jesús es la que nos fortalece para continuar, siendo solidarias, manifestando empatía para con las hermanas y compañeras de DMO. De cierta manera es una guerra vivida de diferente forma, nos levantamos, oramos por las y los enfermos, nos mantenemos pendientes del curso de la enfermedad y del proceso de salud de amigas y familiares. Estando en casa durante la preparación y reuniones, nuestros familiares se interesaron en participar en la celebración, y de seguir conociendo sobre los países, así como se involucraron apoyando los equipos para realizar las reuniones en las plataformas digitales. Conocer para transformar![]() Agradecemos que, durante este año difícil, pudimos mantener comunicación por mensajes (WhatsApp), llamadas, y reuniones en zoom; de esta forma nos vimos fortaleciéndonos unas a las otras. Es un agradecimiento a Dios por la vida y la salud, y por encontrar junto a las amigas y hermanas maneras de accionar para continuar el ministerio del DMO. Agradecidas de tener la oportunidad de realizar la celebración y orar por Vanuatu, así como afirmar nuestro compromiso en trabajar por los derechos de las mujeres, la juventud y las niñas y niños. Conocer la realidad del país Vanuatu nos permite seguir sensibilizándonos y desafiándonos al compromiso con el Reino de Dios. Aprendimos y recordamos a través del trasfondo del país de Vanuatu a “valorar el trabajo que hacen las mujeres y la alegría con la que lo hacen.” Nos sentimos animadas al leer sobre ellas, siendo protagonistas del desarrollo de su país de su nación. Nos sentimos conmovidas e inspiradas al reconocer que las mujeres son valientes. De esta forma deseamos transmitirlo de manera similar a las mujeres en Guatemala lo que aprendimos de las mujeres hermanas de Vanuatu. Para algunas mujeres jóvenes que participaron por primera vez en la celebración por medio de Facebook, les impactó las situaciones de vida de las mujeres de Vanuatu; pues aunque su gobierno les otorga derechos y ocupan una parte importante de la economía, no gozan aún de los beneficios en salud, y educación. Nos sentimos identificadas por el contexto de educación de las mujeres y las niñas, nos lamentamos por la falta de acceso gratuito a la educación, al igual que en el área rural de Guatemala el acceso a la educación es muy difícil. Estamos interesadas en continuar conociendo la situación de las mujeres en otras partes del mundo y orar y accionar para que la situación desfavorable para las mujeres cambie. En el área norte de Guatemala en Cobán, en donde si pudimos reunirnos de manera presencial, fue un motivo mlaboración y equipo, al preparar la comida que compartimos. Leímos la Biblia en clave feminista![]() Tomamos como un desafío presentar la liturgia de la celebración para que sea novedoso y práctico para las diferentes denominaciones, y que se pueda renovar y contextualizar de acuerdo con la situación de cada congregación o grupo. En Cobán, leímos el pasaje bíblico en clave feminista, resumimos el contenido, y adaptamos las alabanzas. Es muy positivo tener la oportunidad de adaptar el material y utilizar todos los recursos de manera flexible. Este año fue un desafío realizar la celebración por medios digitales porque no todas las personas tienen acceso a internet o no cuentan con la facilidad tecnológica de participar. Así que innovamos con los videos que realizamos para orar en la semana previa al 5 de marzo; sentimos fortaleza y unidad al saber que orábamos en conjunto a través de un video; nos admiramos en conocer las experiencias de la fe en Dios y que a pesar de las dificultades ellas lograron comunicar y compartir sus vivencias para la celebración. La reflexión del tema con distintos grupos de mujeres y en diferentes momentos brindó miradas amplias y nuevas perspectivas sobre el texto bíblico. Una reflexión que se realizó en comunidad fue que este texto se ha usado para separar y designar a personas creyentes en Dios de las que no, dividiendo en quienes construyen en la roca de las que construyen en la arena. Repensar qué es la roca y la propuesta nueva que nos presentaron las mujeres de Vanuatu fue muy revelador: la roca es vivir creyendo en las enseñanzas de Jesús y conocer el amor de Dios para nuestras vidas, y la arena son todas aquellas inconsistencias o incoherencias que nos llevan a ser vulnerables a la violencia. Creer que es normal recibir la violencia y aceptarla en los espacios familiares y sociales limitan el vivir con alegría y bienestar a muchas personas. En nuestro contexto sobre la violencia que se está sufriendo hacia las mujeres no solo escuchar que la otra sufre sino hacer algo, como llamar a la policía o interesándose en la vida particular de las mujeres es muy importante. El estudio nos llevó a reflexionar sobre considerar bien nuestras acciones para no decidir de manera insensata sin meditar en las consecuencias; prestar mucha atención y cuidado con los juicios que emitimos, o con la percepción que tengo sobre la otra persona. Es retador comprender qué significa vivir el reino de Dios aquí y ahora, especialmente ahora en el encierro. El reto es escuchar y hacer la palabra de Dios mostrando su amor, practicando la fe, buscando maneras de accionar, apoyar a familiares que han perdido a seres queridos y manifestar de nuevas formas el “estar presentes”. No fue posible realizar celebraciones con las niñas y niños de manera presencial, se compartió el material con personas que trabajan con niñas y niños en congregaciones de iglesias evangélicas. En los lugares que realizaron de manera presencial la celebración, se decidió limitar la participación de niñas y niños por la propia seguridad de ellas y ellos. La convocatoria para esta celebración y participación de las mujeres fue un desafío por el limitado aforo de personas permitido en los lugares. Como comité ha sido un logro haber podido reunirnos como equipo para planificar, preparar y celebrar el DMO en Guatemala, con tantas limitaciones. Contar con espacios virtuales y físicos para celebrar nos anima al observar lo que se logró. Fue motivante participar con otras mujeres a nivel regional, fue una manera palpable de compartir con esta red internacional, así como la oportunidad que tuvimos de planificar escuchando y compartiendo ideas de cómo celebrar DMO. - Bianka Johanna Elizabeth Paz Carrera, DMO Guatemala
In collaboration with the WDP Scottish Committee, WDPIC held a Global Conversation on WDP acting for Climate Justice. Over 60 women from all over the world attended the conversation to learn about climate change, and how we can make a difference as the 26th United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) is happening in Glasglow (Oct 31- Nov 12). In Gaelic, Glasgow’s name means “The Dear Green Place”. The city, the largest in Scotland, is thought to have been founded in 550 A.D. by the patron saint of the city, St. Mungo, also known as St. Kentigern, is the host of the COP26. Mary Welsh started her presentation using the American Museum of Natural History definition of climate change: “Climate change refers to the long-term changes in global temperatures and other characteristics of the atmosphere. Climate has changed throughout Earth’s long history, but this time it is different. Human activity is causing worldwide temperatures to rise higher than at any time we know of in the past”. Starting from the ancient Greeks and Romans to today, she recalled the 2019 UN Nations Climate goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius as the socially, economically, politically and scientifically safe limit to global warming to be reached by the end of this century.” In 2021, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports that “Climate Change is widespread, rapid and intensifying.” The UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated “Climate change is happening now and to all of us. No country or community is immune. And, as is always the case, the poor and vulnerable are the first to suffer and the worst hit.” Margaret Roy introduced Guterres’ concept to point out “the impacts of climate change, which will not be borne equally or fairly, between rich and poor, women and men, and older and younger generations. Consequently, there has been a growing focus on climate justice, which looks at the climate crisis through a human rights lens and on the belief that by working together we can create a better future for present and future generations.” Then, she explained “when COP26 comes to Glasgow, one of the main subjects will be lowering the temperature by looking at our carbon footprint. Governments will be looking at new agreements. Whilst this is important there are other issues for which we need to take responsibility.” What is our responsibility? What can we do about climate change and climate justice? Then, Denise, a girl from Scotland called us to act as blessed and beloved people of God: People of the world, your children are calling to you. World Day of Prayer over the years has listened to the stories of climate change in several countries. We have prayed and supported those affected by natural disasters, forced migration and hunger. During the Global Conversation on WDP acting for Climate Justice, WDP leaders lift up their commitments. For Cornelia Trommer-Klimpke (Germany), we simply need to take the first step, while for Laurence Gangloff (France), we will do it with prayers of hope, and for Bianka Paz (Guatemala) it means to continue the struggle for justice. From changes in lifestyle to advocacy, the participants presented a list of concrete actions for climate justice. Here is a summary of the breakout group conversation registered in the chat.
- Rosângela Oliveira, WDPIC Executive Director We are very grateful to our God during a pandemic that brought much uncertainty and affliction to our country. But we also had the opportunity to show our love to those people, who needed to be comforted by the fact that God's love has not changed. He has not abandoned us. God is still generous. He wants to be with us in these moments of our life. He has poured out many blessings and has arranged them all for our good (Romans 8). Although things have been difficult, we know that these challenges and sufferings have a purpose for our lives and have helped us to grow more. There were many things to pray for: asking our God to take control of all our actions; motivating the group to pray but also to act in the midst of so many difficulties. We prayed with the people who were affected by anxiety and fear over the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to our Lord, who up to now has taken care of us, protected us to be able to comfort and continue loving and praying always. The celebration gave us a call for reflection in terms of making decisions and facing challenges (Matthew 7:24-27). The words of Jesus challenge us so that our life goes well and does not end in disaster. The call is to build on the rock who is Jesus and to listen; listen carefully to his words and put them into practice. The message invites us to decide to live by what the Lord says in his word, to love, forgive, cry with those who mourn, be simple and clean of heart, work for peace and justice. This way we will have a safe and welcoming home for everyone. A house built on the rock, which is Jesus Christ. Our role in the community We have a high percentage of unemployed youth who have not been able to enter the labor market due to the economic crisis in our country. This problem has increased due to the pandemic. Like the voices of Vanuatu women, the women of our country are also affected by the same problems, perhaps more or less. There are women who, due to their poverty conditions, cannot and have not been able to acquire basic education. They leave their homes in rural areas and travel to the big cities, seeking solutions and many times the situation becomes worse. Many end up working in degrading manners to support themselves and the family they left in their hometowns. Our help to women in these unfavorable conditions would be to collaborate with them, guide them and connect them with organizations that protect women and provide alternatives so that they can train and acquire the necessary tools to be able to perform an honest job that dignifies them. As in Vanuatu, malnutrition is an alarming health problem in Panama. A large number of children under the age of five suffer the physical consequences of poor diet, they suffer from stunting and frequent infections. In other words, children are hungry and often get sick. They don't eat foods that can keep their bodies and brains growing strong. Poverty makes the most disadvantaged children face the greatest risk of all forms of malnutrition. To the children in these situations, the help that the women of the WDP would give is to pray for our God to take control of this situation and to support with financial resources the foundations that protect and help these children. Pray and take action. Communication is key We were in total quarantine throughout 2020 and it was difficult for us to meet but thank God we maintained communication through calls to coordinate everything related to the program. The Worship Service was carried out and the attendance of 35 people was achieved in accordance with what was established with the restrictions of the health authorities allowed in the temples and parishes with the required capacity. It was possible to simultaneously transmit the worship in a virtual way for those sisters and invited people who could not participate personally. The service was a great blessing specifically because of its theme. It was a different year in every way. Less face-to-face participation, but today we want to get up and build our houses, our nations and the entire world on the word of Jesus, who is our firm foundation. That must be the fundamental principle of our message today and forever. May the Lord make us wise builders for eternity. Mayor Inez Proverbs, WDP Panama
![]() El Comité del Día Mundial de Oración (DMO) en Cuba agradece los cuidados de Dios en medio de este tiempo de crisis sanitaria mundial, y los aprendizajes que de ello hemos podido extraer; volver a lo esencial de la vida, nuevas formas de relacionarnos, valorar la convivencia en familia, autocuidarnos para poder cuidar, alimentar nuestra espiritualidad y ser más solidarias, entre otras muchas enseñanzas. Agradecemos la vida de las personas que coordinan y apoyan el movimiento del DMO a nivel internacional y en cada país, y que con su labor nos ayudan a mantenernos unidas, informadas, orando y actuando. Especialmente agradecidas por la solidaridad de nuestras hermanas, el afecto expresado en mensajes, oraciones y espacios virtuales compartidos. En este sentido, damos gracias a Dios porque los avances tecnológicos nos permiten comunicarnos con mayor inmediatez, celebrar juntas desde la distancia, ver nuestros rostros, intercambiar información y palabras de ánimo. Y porque a pesar de la distancia física, nos sentimos más unidas. Nuestro corazón se encuentra agradecido porque en medio de un contexto global de enfermedad, crisis e incertidumbres, la gracia de Dios y su Palabra, nos dan continuas señales de vida y amor fraternal, para vivir confiadas en nuestro día a día, y mirar con esperanza el futuro. Los desafíosPreparar las actividades del DMO en contexto de pandemia fue muy desafiante. Las iglesias no se estaban reuniendo por causa del Covid 19, y sólo en algunos lugares podían hacerse, con sumo cuidado y cumplimiento de protocolos sanitarios, pequeñas reuniones. Hicimos la distribución habitual de los materiales con la esperanza de que grupos pequeños pudieran usarlos, pero mayormente nos proyectamos hacia lo virtual específicamente para WhatsApp y Facebook que son las redes sociales más asequibles para nuestro contexto, donde el acceso a Internet es relativamente costoso y la conexión inestable. No obstante, la participación en la celebración virtual del grupo de WhatsApp, tuvo muy buena acogida y superó las expectativas del equipo. De modo que las actividades fueron preparadas en medio de la incertidumbre de no saber qué acontecería al día siguiente, pero con la certeza del Dios que escucharía nuestras oraciones en tiempo presente y con visión de futuro. Damos gracias a Dios también porque pequeños grupos de hermanos y hermanas en otras provincias de Cuba donde la Covid19 aún no se había propagado con fuerza, pudieron hacer pequeñas celebraciones presenciales. Varias denominaciones y organizaciones ecuménicas tomaron parte en las actividades. El entorno de la pandemia afectó la participación de los niños/as, quienes se encontraban en aislamiento en sus casas durante la cuarentena, ya que fue limitada la presencia de menores de edad en espacios públicos. En el caso concreto de Cuba, la tendencia es que los niños/as no poseen dispositivos móviles para conectarse a Internet, de modo que, aunque compartimos los materiales del culto infantil con las iglesias, y seguramente fueron empleados en las casas, no tenemos ninguna constancia de cultos infantiles propiamente. El grupo de WhatsApp creado permanece activo para compartir oraciones diarias, con unos 100 miembros habituales y nuevas personas que se suman paulatinamente. Consideramos como un aporte/logro el que podamos compartir oraciones diarias, las cuales son un canal de acompañamiento, ánimo y esperanza para personas enfermas y sus familiares. Poder convocar a mujeres de todas las generaciones y de todas las provincias del país, para el culto virtual, nos dio una bonita perspectiva del diálogo intergeneracional, de la diversidad de dones y afinidades que poseen, y sobre la manera en que podemos construir juntas, intercambiando saberes, habilidades y motivos de oración. Acciones de apoyo a las mujeres y comunidades![]() Agradecemos a Dios que en Cuba podemos contar con acceso igualitario a la educación, en todos los niveles, y que, en el caso de las mujeres, son mayoría en las estadísticas de los estudios universitarios. Podemos notar que existe un especial interés en la atención a la infancia y existen proyectos para apoyar a este sector de la población. Por ejemplo, actualmente la FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) se encuentra desarrollando un programa para apoyar la desnutrición infantil, beneficiando a embarazadas e infantes. No obstante, surgen nuevos desafíos. En la pandemia, muchas mujeres han quedado desempleadas (sector turismo, sector privado, artistas, etc.). Incluso para aquellas que se mantienen laborando, el teletrabajo supone un reto tecnológico y de distribución de los tiempos en casa. En Cuba existe una tendencia de que las mujeres sean las principales cuidadoras de enfermos y ancianos en el hogar. Por otro lado, la crisis económica ha provocado un notable desabastecimiento de alimentos, medicamentos y otros productos básicos, por lo que se generan largas filas en los establecimientos, donde se percibe una mayor presencia de mujeres, quienes tienen un rol importante en la gestión de trámites relativos al hogar y en la tarea de buscar los alimentos. Coincidentemente, en el reporte diario de casos positivos al Covid 19, el mayor número de casos positivos es de mujeres. Cabe mencionar, que la presencia de los menores en casa también supone para la mujer la responsabilidad de acompañar el proceso educativo de los hijos/as, quienes asisten a clases televisadas durante la cuarentena. Estos factores, unidos al contexto de crisis económica y sanitaria, colocan en riesgo la salud física y mental de las mujeres. Para este caso, nuestro Comité desarrolla un proyecto de incidencia en la salud mental de las comunidades, desde el abordaje de la No Violencia, y la creación de recursos de resiliencia a través de las artes expresivas. El DMO Cuba mantiene una estrecha colaboración con el Programa de Mujer y Género del Consejo de Iglesias de Cuba, en sus acciones formativas de empoderamiento de las líderes eclesiales. Para el acompañamiento diario, diseñamos recursos litúrgicos como oraciones, cantos, y otras herramientas formativas que sirvan a implementar una estrategia de autocuidado, redes de apoyo, y solidaridad femenina. Apoyamos en redes mediante las cuales intercambiamos motivos de oración y peticiones de medicamentos para intentar localizarlos y movilizar la solidaridad. También, en nuestras actividades y talleres, priorizamos emplear como facilitadoras a mujeres necesitadas, mujeres jóvenes o profesionales desempleadas, de modo que puedan percibir alguna bonificación temporal por su colaboración. Son pequeñas acciones, a veces de carácter temporal, pero mediante las cuales hemos podido acompañarnos mutuamente. El mensaje hoyDesde finales del año pasado y especialmente en este 2021 han acontecido muchos procesos (económicos, sociales, políticos, eclesiales, etc.) que, acompañados de la pandemia, han venido a agudizar la crisis mundial de la que no estamos exentos, y así a desplazarnos de nuestros habituales cimientos, zonas de confort o seguridades. Desde esta visión, el programa de Vanuatu desafía fuertemente a la Iglesia Cubana a fortalecer sus cimientos en la base firme, que es Dios y a buscar nuevas formas de apoyarnos mutuamente, aportando nuestros dones al servicio del reino, y en favor de los más necesitados. Ser sabio, en el contexto de nuestro país implica, sobre todo, ser creativos y resilientes. La creatividad ante un panorama de crisis económica, sedimentado por el bloqueo y ahora agravado por la pandemia, ha supuesto para cubanos y cubanas, la búsqueda de soluciones concretas, prácticas y cotidianas. La resiliencia ha permitido adaptarse a situaciones de carencia, desde una economía de la solidaridad, un crecerse ante las dificultades, y mayormente, confiar en que Dios nos sostendrá sobre una base firme. La sabiduría debe ir acompañada de la formación, pensando en las nuevas generaciones, que son el presente de la sociedad, y en este caso, también de la Iglesia, los cuales muchas veces carecen de herramientas necesarias para emprender sus sueños y, sobre todo, de valores sólidos. Ser sabios, en esta hora de nuestra realidad, implicará también apoyar a personas vulnerables, con pocos recursos espirituales y materiales, y especialmente a los adultos mayores, que son mayoría en nuestra población. La sabiduría para este tiempo implica enarbolar un discurso de no violencia, de diálogo intergeneracional, de acompañamiento pastoral y de inclusión. Cuba es una isla donde también los ciclones afectan la vida cotidiana durante una época del año. Desde esa perspectiva insular, conectamos muy bien con los sentimientos expresados por la obra de arte de la artista de Vanuatu, y la inspiración del tema. Construir sobre una base firme, en tiempos de profunda inestabilidad, fue un aliciente emocional y espiritual para las mujeres cristianas vinculadas al movimiento. Ha generado, entre otras cosas, el desafío de seguirnos uniendo, animarnos mutuamente en la fe, y obrar juntas creando alianzas de trabajo y saberes compartidos. La metáfora de la base firme, como contenido principal de la celebración, nos ha inspirado a estar más unidas como equipo DMO nacional, reconociendo la solidez de nuestro movimiento, en Cuba, gracias a la misericordia de Dios y la labor de muchas cristianas de nuestro país. - Ruth Mariet Trueba Castro, DMO Cuba
![]() On July 16th, 2021, the World Day of Prayer International Committee hosted an online Global Conversation with Ruth Mariet Trueba Castro, President of WDP Cuba, on how the relationship between art and prayer can be a source of healing during the pandemic. Being united in prayer is what links us together, which has been very crucial during this time. Over 50 WDP leaders from all over the world came together to listen to Ruth as she discussed the important connection between art and religion while showcasing the WDP artwork over the last 10 years. She focused on colors and common symbols that can be seen within the artworks and how it relates to faith and prayer. Ruth explained that “there are two main ways in which we can approach prayer through art: meditating on works of art as starting point for prayer or creating art as the expression of a prayer.” Ruth also demonstrated, by drawing an image live during the meeting, how some of the prayers under the #WDPUnitedInPrayer campaign sustained her during this time of pandemic. While she drew, selected participants read aloud the prayers. ![]() The participants were invited to create their own artwork as Ruth guided them through a meditation inspired by the Vanuatu theme "Build on a Strong Foundation." In small groups, participants were able to share their creations with each other and pray together. Catherine MacKeil, WDP Canada, commented on how appropriate the topic of art was during this breakout session because although her partner spoke a different language, they could communicate through the art they both created. The conversation ended with a closing prayer song performed by Susana Renner, WDP Brazil. The colors of a pandemic were made into a collage of artwork and prayers from the participants presented to us by Ruth Trueba. Art comes in many different forms and so does prayer and we are thankful to Ruth for guiding us through this conversation. Watch the full video below: One year after the first Global Conversation, organized by World Day of Prayer International Committee, we are back again to share our experiences and learnings with the 2021 WDP Vanuatu program. We want to nurture global relationships, practical learning about WDP and strengthen our journey in the way of peace and justice. Almost 60 WDP leaders representing the seven regions of the world attended the online conversation on May 28, 2021. In more than 10 small groups, we talked about how it felt to celebrate during the pandemic and the reasons for our prayers. For Maral Haidostian, Lebanon, the conversation was a time of friendship and encouragement, while Sylvia Marowa, Zimbabwe, was thankful to God for preserving us all during the pandemic. Margarita Casco, Paraguay, reflected on the painting from Juliette Pita, where she sees God as the mother caring for the child during the turmoil caused by the pandemic. Pauline Bryan, Jamaica, shared about the prayers for the sisters of Vanuatu, as their experiences resonated with the women in her home country. The Conversation ended with an intercessory prayer led by Nora Carmi, Palestine. In the spirit of WDP's practice of informed prayer and prayerful action, she contextualized the continuous oppression of the Palestinian people. As a person who knows suffering but does not lose hope, Nora concluded the invitation to prayer affirming the hope that is built on the strong foundation of our faith. To which, Áine Pedersen, Slovenia, responded with gratitude for the witness and support with prayers. The video below is a brief insight into the conversation on May 28th and what we hope to achieve with this series. WDPIC will continue to host Global Conversations throughout the year to keep the WDP network connected, engaged and informed. Watch our video and share it with your network! - Rosângela Oliveira
Executive Director, WDPIC “May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you. May the nations be glad and sing for joy.” (Psalm 67:3,4) World Day of Prayer Croatia’s preparation for the celebration on the First Friday of March took place under special circumstances due to the Coronavirus pandemic. As mentioned by Kata Lenđel, “Having faced the challenges of isolation and recent earthquakes which severely hit parts of Croatia, experiencing isolation and the impossibility of meeting one another, as well as constant fear of new quakes, the National Committee of WDP Croatia initiated online gatherings.” Given the unusual situation, WDP Croatia sensed a genuine need for mutual prayer and used the benefits of virtual meetings and social media to come together. At the beginning of 2021 they started a cycle of online prayers which they called “Together in Prayer”. Brigita Hengl says “we focused our prayers on gratitude, repentance, faith, supplication, and trust. Together we meditated, sang, and recited the Lord's Prayer. We tried to find comfort and peace, strength, and inspiration for continued action, daily challenges, and successful preparation for the prayer with women in Vanuatu. We felt especially close to them as we are also exposed to natural disasters, like the earthquake that-ravaged parts of Croatia in December 2020. In addition to the spiritual message, we recognized the importance of developing social and geo-political strategies to build a healthy and just world for all.” On February 24, they held an online Bible study on the theme Build on a Strong Foundation, Matthew 7: 23-27, led by theologian and philosopher Juliana Mladenovska Tesija. This online event was attended by participants from Croatia and neighboring countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia and Serbia. Finally in March, their worship service was held virtually over Zoom. Despite the special situation experienced this year, they felt enriched with new experiences and opportunities provided by the digital world, including the use of the hashtag #vanuatuwdp2021 on WDP Croatia’s Facebook page to promote prayers. Sanja Sabljak highlighted a moment during preparatory meetings where one WDP sister shared her thoughts: “I was consumed by true fright and excitement facing the task of preparing a prayer that will be pronounced and supported by my fellow sisters from WDP. It looked like a good opportunity to share with them my most intimate beliefs and contemplations about God, my favourite Bible passages and hymns. This experience enabled me to test what can be shared about God's greatness, thanksgiving, penitence, faith, requests and confidence among sisters. I liked what I learned, and it encouraged me profoundly. It meant that I have matured in my faith. In my church, women don't often have an opportunity to lead common prayer which is the reason why this event was even more intense and beautiful. Sharing one's faith in common prayer was for me a moment of immense joy and intimacy in spirit with sisters. I am thankful for being given the opportunity to not only participate, but also organize and create the prayer meeting.” One great component of getting women to pray together within the World Day of Prayer celebration is to unite them in the spirit of Jesus Christ. Encouraged by such joy and peace given to us by the Lord through these online prayer meetings, WDP Croatia commits to continuing “Together in Prayer” into the next year. Text adapted from reflections by WDP Croatia members: Kata Lenđel, Brigita Hengl and Sanja Sabljak
![]() It amazes me how the 2021 theme “Build on a Strong Foundation,’’ is so beautifully interwoven with the WDP motto ‘Informed prayer, prayerful action.’ The theme has been foremost on my mind, and I began to question what my ‘foundation’ was like. Whilst preparing to speak at a fasting and prayer morning, I also realized how all-encompassing the WDPIC motto is - it is only as one prays that God opens our eyes (informed) and then…. action is the natural outcome! Keeping this in mind, I was led to examine the lives of two women in the Old Testament. Their lives helped me to be ‘informed’ and to realize what a powerful tool prayer is. They are Rebekah (Isaac’s wife) and Hannah. Their prayerful or prayerless attitudes reflect the impact not only in their lives, but also in the lives of their family and even an entire nation. When we first meet Rebekah in Genesis 24, she is a vibrant, adventurous, helpful, happy person who was willing to take risks. If you observe our young girls, it will not be difficult to identify a young Rebekah – so happy, content, and full of life. Rebekah was not only blessed with a loving, caring family (Genesis 24:49-50), she also married into a family that loved her and welcomed her with open arms (Genesis 24:67). On the other hand, our first encounter with Hannah in 1 Samuel 1 is quite the opposite and we meet a ‘deeply troubled,’ barren woman whose rival was constantly provoking her (1 Samuel 1:6). When comparing them, one would expect Hannah to be the ‘loser.’ However, this was not so. Rebekah turned her blessings into a curse. To me the saddest verse in the Bible is found in Genesis 27:13 when Rebekah encouraged her favourite son Jacob to deceive his father and brother. Even when Jacob voiced his reservations (Genesis 27:11-12), she arrogantly told him ‘Let the curse fall on me!’ The greatest blessing for any mother is to see her children not only living righteous lives, but also to be united. Rebekah unfortunately traded these blessings for curses. Her deceit led to disastrous results: Jacob fled from home; and when he returned from Mesopotamia twenty years later, his mother lay buried in the cave of Machpelah, (Genesis 49:31) and Rebekah did not even have the joy of seeing Jacob’s children! Is this not a sad ending to a family that was greatly blessed by God? In contrast, Hannah chose to seek the Lord in her time of distress and transformed her life into a blessing. Her agonizing prayer to her God (1 Samuel 1:13-16) and her faithfulness (1 Samuel 1:20) transformed her from being deeply troubled to a woman greatly blessed (1 Samuel 2:21). She kept her promise and dedicated her first born to God (1 Samuel 1:27-28). A difficult decision, as she knew she could see Samuel only once a year. Hannah was able to experience the blessing of watching her son become a great prophet who went on to influence an entire nation. An amazing woman. Is it surprising that the Lord blessed her? Do you want to act like Hannah or a Rebekah? Are you going to pray intelligently and take prayerful action just like Hannah did? Or will you choose to act like Rebekah? The Lord has left the choice to you! May you make life’s choices prayerfully and thereafter take prayerful action! - Vino Schubert, WDPIC Regional Representative Asia
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