by Vida Sue Snavely
When I asked an attendee to share her thoughts about the Community World Day of Prayer service hosted by our church on Friday evening, March 2, her reply was, “It was special!”
Pastor Pam introduced the special speaker, Dr. Rebecca Dali of Church of the Brethren, Nigeria, who called us to “care for God’s good creation of humanity.” To do that, she instructed, “We have to move, we have to speak, and we have to share a bit of light on the darkness in the world!” Dr. Dali’s personal concentration on doing just that was recognized by the United Nations in 2017 when she was awarded the prestigious Sergio Vieira de Mello humanitarian award for her efforts in helping women and orphans abducted by Boko Haram militants reintegrate into their home communities.
How special it was to join several churches in our community along with churches from 170 countries around the world in presenting our version of a prayer service originally prepared by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Suriname, a small country in South America. The theme of the service was “ALL God’s Creation Is Very Good!”
Special music was provided by Josh Tindall, piano, organ and vocals; Ron Bellamy, bell tree; and Etown CoB Memorial Bells. A dramatic presentation of Genesis 1 by Gene and Barbara Ellis added a special touch.
An introduction to seven of the diverse cultures of Suriname was presented in a special manner by women in dress of the cultures. In addition, the service contained some very special prayers encouraging all to “care for God’s good creation.”
No evening of friends gathering would be complete without fellowship and refreshments. Thanks to the Women’s Bible Study group for providing special refreshments, some highlighting the country of Suriname.
Many thanks to all who assisted with this service, especially Sandy Garman and Jean Moyer, who joined me on the planning committee.
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