On March 4, 2023, women from Seventh-day Adventist churches around the world will join together to pray on International Women's Day of Prayer. They will pray for each other, their churches, communities, and the global community. Through this year’s theme “Transformed by Prayer”, church members can engage in prayer, fellowship, and be inspired to deepen their relationship with God.
What is the International Women’s Day of Prayer?
The Women's Ministries Department (WM) of the General Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists initiated this annual special day dedicated to prayer in 1990. They called on all church members, but especially women, to experience the power of prayer and the joy of praying together.
In today's increasingly complex and challenging world, WM directors recognize the importance of having a deep and meaningful relationship with God. Nilde Itin, WM’s associate director shares, “Now more than ever, we need to spend time in prayer in the face of issues around the world, such as wars, natural disasters, illnesses, and spiritual battles. [There is a] constant need to depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance, wisdom, peace, and strength in our daily life as we quickly approach Jesus’ return.”
Prayer centers us and reminds us that we are not alone and that God cares for us and is always with us. Women of all ages and backgrounds have found encouragement in participating with their local churches, or even individually.
Transformed by Prayer
This year's theme, "Transformed by Prayer," highlights how prayer is a daily practice that can change our character. A practice that brings us closer to God. As followers of Jesus, we are called to become more like Him every day by beholding Him and spending time with Him. Through this communion, the Holy Spirit transforms our hearts and enables us to better reflect His image to those around us.
Itin notes, “What began as a day to focus on prayer in church, has also become a day to
move from the church into the community to pray with others and to reach out to
those in hospitals and in need of food and care.” She continues, “Its impact can be observed by the number of activities, events, and opportunities this day has given local churches to bring people together, nurturing their prayer life, but at the same time, empowering them to reach out to the community in various ways.”
Prayer is not just for one day but every day. Its power can transform our lives and actions, and the world around us.
How to get Involved
As the International Women's Day of Prayer approaches, all can participate. Men and children included. All are welcome to pray for transformation, both for themselves and for others. WM also invites members to pray for specific needs, issues, and challenges. On this day, members may gather to pray for the world, their families, friends, and communities. They may pray for those who are struggling, sick, lonely, or seeking hope.
Churches may hold a special Sabbath service to emphasize this year's theme. WM encourages members to move from the church into their respective communities, by being the hands and feet of Jesus. They can reach out to those around them and share the love of Jesus through acts of kindness and love.
Individuals and churches can get creative with activities for this day. They can organize prayer walks, host a prayer breakfast, prayer vigil, or a weekend prayer conference. The possibilities are endless. The most important thing is that all come together in prayer.
WM provides a resource packet for each year’s theme. This packet features an outline for divine service, scripture references, program notes, children’s story, a written sermon and seminar. It also includes PowerPoint slides for the sermon and seminar and is available in over 15 languages.
WM’s “Transformed by Prayer” resource packet is available here. It is a valuable tool for churches, leaders, and individuals to use during this event or for personal enrichment.
As we prepare for Women’s Day of Prayer 2023, let us remember the power of prayer. It has the ability to transform us, our families, and our communities. Let us come together in unity. Lifting up our voices in prayer. Seeking God’s guidance and direction. Surrendering ourselves to Christ that we may live transformed lives.
For those interested in participating or learning more about International Women’s Day of Prayer, or for more information on Women’s Ministries, visit https://women.adventist.org/