In a time of great uncertainty, women across the globe stood in unity at 10:00 on March 6 to commemorate the 96th annual World Day of Prayer.

Gathered in the sacred sanctum of The Salvation Army Benoni’s chapel, more than 40 women from various denominations across the city joined hands in prayer guided by the testimony of the women of Nigeria.

Under the theme ‘I will give you rest, come,’ inspired by Matthew 11:28, the faithful were invited into the presence of Jesus to lay their burdens at His feet.

Leading the service, The Salvation Army’s retired home executive Carol Rennie said in a time when the world is being consumed by conflict and innocence is suffering, it is important to trust God.

“Jesus has presented us with a wonderful invitation, not only to be seated at His side, but to lay all our worries, burdens and concerns on His shoulders,” said Captain Linda Reid, who delivered the morning’s message.

“We often succumb to spiritual fatigue, feeling like our prayers are going unanswered, almost as if the Lord has abandoned us.

“Mark 6:31, encourages us to find rest in God’s presence, to practice self-care, seeking a true connection with Him.”

She said that in times of turmoil, every man, woman and child who feels overwhelmed must be brave enough to abolish self-resilience, laying their wounds bare before God, surrendering to His unconditional love and seeking spiritual fulfilment.

Unified, the congregants stood shoulder to shoulder, songs of worship flowing from within the confines of the church building and filling the surrounding streets. The message was unmistakable – united prayer has the power to encourage, overcome and restore.

We asked participants of the 96th annual World Day of Prayer what they are praying for?

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