St. Christopher Episcopal Mission, Cuenca

Monday after Pentecost
Morning Prayer
May 25

The World Day of Prayer 2026, held on Friday, March 6, 2026, is when we are asked to specifically pray for the women of Nigeria. This international ecumenical event, celebrated in over 170 countries, focuses on the theme "I Will Give You Rest: Come" (Matthew 11:28–30).

Key Aspects of the World Day of Prayer - Nigeria 2026:

2026 highlights the need for peace, rest, and comfort in a world full of struggle, encouraging people to bring burdens of anxiety and injustice to God.

Global Impact: This day takes place on the first Friday of March to unite in prayer and action for Nigeria.
Local Services: Many churches worldwide, including in Canada, Australia, and the UK, are collaborating to host the service, which includes music and stories prepared by Nigerian women.

In addition to the global World Day of Prayer, many initiatives focus on specific healing for Nigeria, particularly in response to current security challenges and violence.

Restoration: Prayers for healing and peace for communities and families affected by violence.

Unity & Peace: Interceding for the nation to experience a, reduction in violence and a, rise in righteousness.

Comfort: Supporting the persecuted Christian community in Nigeria.

The 2026 theme from Nigeria, "I will give you rest," serves as a call for spiritual and emotional relief for all who are burdened.

FASTING IDEAS THIS LENTEN SEASON
From +Pope Francis

1. Fast from hurting words and say kind words.

Hurting words → Kind words
Control speech. Replace criticism and gossip with encouragement and respect.

2. Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.

Sadness → Gratitude
Instead of dwelling on negativity, consciously thank God for blessings.

2. Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.

Pessimism → Hope
Choose faith and trust in God’s promises rather than despair.

4. Fast from worries and trust in God.

Worries → Trust in God
Surrender anxieties to God through faith and confidence in His care.

5. Fast from pressures and be prayerful.

Pressures → Prayerfulness
When overwhelmed, turn to prayer instead of stress.

6. Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy.

Bitterness → Joy
Let go of resentment and choose a joyful heart rooted in God.

7. Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.

Selfishness → Compassion
Move from self-centeredness to serving and caring for others.

8. Fast from grudges and be reconciled.

Grudges → Reconciliation
Forgive and restore relationships instead of holding onto anger.

9. Fast from words and be silent, so you can listen.

Too many words → Silence
Practice silence to better listen to God and others.

These recommendations show that fasting is not only about food, but about transforming the heart during Lent.

God bless!🙏