Today is International Women’s Day.

Yesterday I received this letter via Germany from Women of St. Petersburg/Russia. It really moved me and I am trying to share it as widely as I can. I invite you to read it, share it, maybe even act on it.

Thank you,
Christiane

3/08/22

In the name of Esther, who spoke out to save her people, we pray for all women speaking out in places such as Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, for justice for women and for all in their community.

In the name of Hagar, who was forced to leave her home and wandered in the desert before God spoke to her, we pray for the women and their families who are forced to migrate in confusion and dread from Syria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, South Sudan, and elsewhere.

In the name of Rachel, who died in childbirth with her son, Benjamin, we pray for all women who face childbirth without adequate medical assistance in countries such as Yemen and Somalia, which have the highest rate of mortality for women giving birth.

In the name of Ruth, who cared for her mother-in-law Naomi, we pray for all women caregivers who work without respite to care for the sick and the elderly in their families, in the U.S. and around the world.

In the name of Deborah, one of the Judges of the Old Testament who governed wisely, we pray for all women in leadership positions, in the U.S. and around the world, that they may use their power to promote the common good.

In the name of Martha, who worked without ceasing, we pray for all women who are forced to work long hours in workplaces and sweatshops that violate workers’ rights.

In the name of Martha’s sister, Mary, who sat at Christ’s feet to listen, we pray for all those women who take time to listen and understand the issues of social justice, so their prayers and their actions are informed by compassionate contemplation.

In the name of Mary Magdalene, we pray for all women and girls who are victims of sexual trafficking; may they come to know the love of Christ through our efforts to bring them freedom.

In the name of the Samaritan woman at the well who risked to speak with Jesus, we pray for women who are willing to transcend cultural barriers, for women of the transgender community, and for a world that is open and accepting to all, regardless of gender identity.

In the name of Mary, Mother of Sorrows, we pray for all women who are grieving because of their children’s suffering with bodily and/or mental illnesses.

In the name of Phoebe, Chloe, Prisca, Euodia, and Syntyche, all women mentioned in Paul’s writings who were hailed for being co-workers in spreading the Word, we pray for all women of faith who are co-creating the Realm of God through their daily efforts to teach, to preach, and to witness to the Good News of peace and Justice.

We pray that we may draw strength from the examples of such women
and be courageous in speaking out
and be instruments of God’s purpose
and be strong in carrying our burdens
and be uncompromising in standing up for our deepest values
and be ready to sacrifice intentionally
and be tender in showing compassion to others
and be fearless in facing injustice
and be witnesses of great faith. Amen.

– adapted from Global Ministries of the UCC and DOC

A virtual Women’s Advent Gathering

All church women are invited to our Annual Gathering and Reflection as we discover the JOY of Advent.

Sisters, mothers, daughters, trans and non-binary individuals and friends – near and far – are welcome to join us for a brief respite during this busy season.

Monday, December 7, 2020
7:00pm to 7:45pm
on Zoom

RSVP by Sign-up Genius by November 25th required for each attendee to receive a special delivery.

Consider a donation to support Big Sisters, Boston via Venmo

If you have a problem registering online, email your name, address and phone number to Sarah Marino at first.congregational@verizon.net.
Those who register by Wednesday, 11/26 will receive a front porch delivery.

For mail in donation to Big Sisters, Boston, make your check out to FCCW and send to the church office, 21 Church St Winchester MA 01890.