World Day of Prayer

The World Day of Prayer takes place every year on the first Friday in March. It was formed after the devastation of World War I, when women were convinced that world peace was tied to world mission. Each year, Christian women from all over the world join together to plan and organize events, and suggest a theme and focus for prayer and prayerful action. 

This year the theme was set by the women of Cuba, who call us to consider the words “Receive children, receive me.”  They explain that the church is a community that witnesses the signs of God’s realm. Children are welcomed. As we take part in educating, caring and loving children as Jesus did, we create community that resembles the face of God’s realm. 

"Let us join in efforts to follow Jesus’ teachings, and not merely correct ideas about children and people who have no power in society, but also correct the behavior of adults toward these marginalized groups."


Agenda today: 
1. Study up on Child Rights issues: 
The women of Cuba have listed a number of social justice issues and concerns that are significant for them, with suggested actions. You can see the entire Action Guide here.

The one I will focus on is Child Rights. I did some research at the Child Rights International Network web site, and it's pretty depressing. 

One report on "access to justice for children" rates the US tied for 52nd with Uganda... really?

That means that we can't trust our legal system to protect our children's human rights.

The report states: "The US does not have a comprehensive set of federal laws or any uniform statutory framework for child rights; rather, provisions on children’s rights are scattered across several state laws. Minors can only initiate action in state civil court through a parent or guardian ad litem. Challenges to children’s constitutional violations are brought in the same way as any other case - through a representative, in either state or federal courts. The Supreme Court can strike down any law or action that is incompatible with the Federal Constitution, including its rights provisions."

2. Journal:

Think creatively about children's issues- 

What small steps can I take to advocate for change in the world?

What steps can I take myself to change habits?

3. Learn about Cuba:
WPD has a whole page about Cuba's history and cultural diversity here. 

Tonight I plan to eat Cuban pork, black beans, and rice.

4. Prayer: 
Great Spirit, open me to feel compassion for those in need. Help me find ways to fight for equality and work towards equity in my own use of resources.