World Day of Prayer Unites Millions in “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action”

On the first Friday of March each year, a powerful wave of prayer circles the globe as more than 1.5 million Christians in over 150 countries unite in spirit for the World Day of Prayer. Speaking more than 90 different languages, participants gather to pray for issues affecting women and children, continuing a movement active for nearly 100 years.

The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement bringing Christians of many traditions together to observe a common day of prayer annually. While traditionally held on the first Friday of March, communities may select alternate dates best suited to their congregations.

Each year, a different participating country prepares the worship service, offering a distinct cultural and theological perspective. In 2026, the service will be written by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Nigeria. Through these internationally prepared services, participants gain insight into how Christians in other countries, languages, and cultures understand Scripture within their own contexts. Worshippers learn about concerns and challenges facing women and families in those regions and are invited to stand in solidarity through prayer and support.

The movement’s motto, “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action,” reflects its dual commitment. Organizers emphasize prayer and action as inseparable, each carrying immeasurable influence around the world. Participants are encouraged not only to pray but also to respond meaningfully within their own communities.

A Rich History in Canada

The World Day of Prayer traces its roots to the 19th century, when Christian women in Canada and the United States became increasingly involved in mission work locally and globally. As early as 1812, women encouraged one another in personal devotion and led communal prayer within mission groups.

In 1887, Presbyterian women in the United States called for a national day of prayer. Anglican women in Canada followed in 1895 by establishing a national day of corporate intercessions for mission work. A pivotal moment came on October 19th, 1918, when Presbyterian women in Canada gathered representatives from five Women’s Missionary Boards — Anglican, Baptist, Congregational, Methodist, and Presbyterian — with a shared goal: promoting the spread of Christ’s kingdom through united prayer and action.

From this historic meeting emerged the Interim Committee on the Federation of the Women’s Missionary Society Boards of Canada, which organized a national, interdenominational day of prayer on January 9th, 1920. By 1922, Canadian and U.S. committees agreed to share the same theme and date. In 1927, the event officially became the Women’s World Day of Prayer.

Today, the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada — representing 11 church partners — continues to coordinate the World Day of Prayer in Canada and speaks to issues concerning women of faith across the country.

Local Opportunities to Participate

Residents throughout our readership area are invited to take part in this year’s observances at the following locations:

Port Perry Victory Christian Centre, 593 Alma Street Friday, March 6th at 2 p.m.

Uxbridge St. Andrews/Chalmers, 8 Church Street Saturday, March 7th at noon

Beaverton St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 383 Osborne Street Friday, March 6th at 11 a.m.

Woodville Woodville United Church, 104 King Street Friday, March 6th at 2 p.m.

Lindsay St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 45 Russell Street West Friday, March 6th at 2 p.m.

Bobcaygeon Bethel Christian Fellowship, 128 Main Street Friday, March 6th at 10 a.m.

All are welcome to attend these services and join a worldwide community committed to prayer, solidarity, and meaningful action. Participation offers an opportunity to deepen personal faith while becoming part of a nearly century-old tradition of global Christian unity and compassion.