Holy Trinity is proud to participate in annual events related to the World Day of Prayer 2023!
World Day of Prayer 2023
World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of Christian women of many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year on the first Friday in March. World Day of Prayer was founded on the idea that prayer and action are inseparable in the service of God’s kingdom. Services begin at sunrise in the Pacific and follow the sun across the globe on the day of celebration. Each year a different country’s committee serves as the writers of the World Day of Prayer worship service. And each year, we are called to action in response to the concerns raised by the writer country.
The theme for this year is: "I Have Heard About Your Faith" and the host nation is: Taiwan
The theme of the WDP 2023 program is based on Ephesians 1:15-19, the letter sent to a faith community to express gratitude. Paul gave thanks to God for the Ephesians living out their love and faith, and prayed that they could see these three truths: the hope to which God has called the disciples, the riches of God’s glorious inheritance among the saints, and the immeasurable greatness of God’s power.
God’s calling has a meaning and a purpose. Oftentimes we are frustrated by difficulties and obstacles and may even lose our hope and faith or rely on our weak human nature. However, we are called to keep our “hope and faith” in God’s kingdom and promises. Through the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, we come to see the faithful, loving, and gracious God. We regain our hope and faith to face the challenges and move forward. As it was written in Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
Throughout the letter, the author shared his prayers for the saints in the trust that they could grasp how wide and long and high and deep the love of Christ is (Ephesians 3:18). Should we be willing to respond to that love by living not for ourselves but for God? The love of Christ may be revealed through our actions, which will point to God’s glorious and abundant inheritance! What are the stories of faith that you have heard?
This service is being held at the Salvation Army Church in Belleville (290 Bridge Street W) on
Friday, March 10 at 130pm.
All are welcome!
For Further Reflection on this theme:
Taiwan is located in the Western Pacific region and in the center of the East and Southeast Asia Island Arcs. It is composed of the main island and many offshore islands, including the Penghu Islands, Kinmen, the Matsu Islands, and over 100 other islands and skerries. The western third of the island’s terrain consists of plains, basins, hills, and plateaus and is home to over 20 million people. The capital city--Taipei City—sits in northern Taiwan while other major cities run long the west coast.
There are nine national parks in Taiwan. Among them, the Taroko National Park attracts the most tourists with its splendid gorge scenery. The unique island geography and climate conditions have resulted in the considerable diversity of animal and plant species. Hot and cold springs containing different levels of various minerals can be found throughout the country, even in rivers and oceans.
With an approximate population of 23.6 million people, Taiwan is a densely populated multi-ethnic country. The characteristic of Taiwan as a society of immigrants is also reflected in its language, with the 16 officially recognized indigenous languages.
People who are enthusiastic about staying healthy are often seen jogging or practicing tai chi or Baduanjin qigong (eight-sectioned exercise) at parks near their homes. Praise dance, which was developed by Christians, is not only a fitness activity but also a way to attract people to Christianity.