World day of prayer

Editor's note: This story has been changed from its original version to reflect that the event has been rescheduled due to weather concerns.

Jackson again is reaching beyond its borders. For more years than Mary Klaproth can recall, churches in the area have joined with churches across the world to participate in World Day of Prayer. This year, New McKendree United Methodist Church will host the observance.

The World Day of Prayer website says the organization "promotes justice and equality for women through prayer, partnerships, service and celebration." World Day of Prayer is celebrated in 170 countries and came to North America Jan. 9, 1920, when Canada embraced it, followed by the United States on Feb. 20, 1920, according to Klaproth, whose role is to help plan this year's event.

Over the years, six churches in Jackson have taken turns hosting this time of focusing on service to women worldwide. Since it is New McKendree's year, Klaproth has taken the responsibility of making sure everything goes smoothly. "I have been a part of the planning," she said, and she is very excited about what is accomplished through this endeavor. The organization is committed to assisting women who are victims of domestic violence, helping teenage mothers continue their education and supporting women who suffer from HIV and AIDS, among other things. Klaproth asserted that it's all about service. In fact, at the heart of WDP is the Scripture John 13:1-17, where Jesus knelt down and washed His disciples' feet -- a true sign of humility and service. This year's theme is "Do You Understand What I Have Done for You?" Those involved in WDP do understand, which is why they are committed to doing for others, in this case women who are in need of both prayer and practical assistance.

Each year, World Day of Prayer focuses on a different country. Services are conducted, and an offering is taken. These donations go to the national committee and are then distributed to its designated country for its designated purpose. This year, the Bahamas is the focus. The six area churches participating will congregate at the host church in Jackson, and the offering they take, as well as the offerings from other parts of the world, will be spent on issues that affect women both in the United States and worldwide. New McKendree will count the offering prior to the end of service and announce how much has been collected so everyone knows the result of their generosity.

New McKendree has several things planned for the service. "I have purchased, through WDP, a 12-minute DVD, which will be shown. ... It focuses on the education of the people of the Bahamas, the food of the people of the Bahamas and the government of the Bahamas," said Klaproth.

There's a connection between each country and each church involved because the worship services are written by women in the target nation. The women of the Bahamas wrote this year's. "Last year, it was written by the women of Egypt, and next year, it will be Cuba," Klaproth said.

Following the service, attendees will partake in further fellowship as together they enjoy refreshments.

In addition to the brief DVD, there are "different speaking parts -- divided among the six churches." New McKendree United Methodist Church's minister, Pastor Israel, "will do the welcome and portray Jesus, and there are eight other speaking parts," which are divided among the six participating churches.

Klaproth expects 80 to 90 attendees, and hopes more will come. Though WDP focuses on being a blessing to women, the worship service is not for women only. "Everyone is welcome to come. We extend an invitation to all -- even men and young people." She added, "I've really been talking it up to members of New McKendree because it really is a nice service."

World Day of Prayer usually takes place the first Friday in March, but this year's event has been postponed due to inclement weather. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. March 13, and the service begins at 1 p.m.

Pertinent address: 225 S. High St., Jackson, MO