The commemoration begins in Samoa and spreads across the globe like a continuous wave of prayer, concluding about 38 hours later.
For about 50 years, services recognising the day have been held in Echuca, and on Friday, March 6, Christ Church Anglican will host this year’s formalities.
According to Christ Church Anglican parish executive team member Pauline Vicary, the preparation for the day is extensive, and every year the worship service focuses on a different country and a specific theme.
“Each year, women from a different country craft a service, sharing their unique spiritual journey and culture,” she said.
“For 2026, the women of Nigeria have created a service that speaks to our need for peace and solace, drawing on their faith and experiences in a world filled with struggles and anxieties.”
The country that prepares the service and its theme are chosen years in advance.
The service is then sent to the international committee in New York for translation and dissemination to national committees in more than 120 participating countries.
From there, it is adapted locally and shared in communities, culminating in gatherings at hundreds of churches every March.
“Through the World Day of Prayer service, we can come to know how people from other countries, languages and cultures understand the biblical passages in their own context,” Ms Vicary said.
“A couple of years ago, the focus country was Palestine, which felt particularly timely as the war in Gaza had escalated.
“This year, the focus is Nigeria. While the service highlights challenges such as limited health care, education and employment opportunities for women and children, it also opens conversation and prayer on how to support persecuted Christians in the country.”
The service starts at 9.30am at Christ Church Anglican, 500 High St, Echuca. Attendees are asked to be seated by 9.25am.
The program includes songs, some recorded by an African choir, and stories about three Nigerian women, a short video about a mission project supporting women and children, and also prayers.
Following the service, morning tea will be provided.
“The other great thing about the event is that we can enjoy a relaxed morning tea with others from our community,” Ms Vicary said.
“We can talk about what we have learnt from the service and discuss how we can support each other in our town too.
“World Day of Prayer can be attended by anyone in our community. It’s not just for Christians.”
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