International Day of Prayer, 2018

For Adventist women in Italy it has become a good tradition to preach and present programs in their churches on the International Day of Prayer. This year saw women in action in several churches:
Rome - The theme of this year, "God understands" centered on the figure of the prophet Elijah and on some events of his life related to prayer. The sermon was skillfully presented by Manuela Mori, who preached for the first time in the community. The moments dedicated to prayer were intense and significant. In the afternoon the "spiritual woman" seminar was presented: questions, reflections and sharing in groups, encouraged practical activities to be followed for spiritual growth. (Reported by Franca Zucca)
Ostia (Rome)– After the sermon held by Silvia and Marta, each woman was given a bookmark with a Bible text on it and a pansy seedling. (Reported by Marta Donnola)
Niscemi (Sicily) - It was a day of great blessings, where everyone felt an integral part of the program. The sermon was very heartfelt, the prayer united us and the great teaching of Elijah moved us. (Reported by Elena Di Modica)
Rossano (Calabria) - It was a special day for the church with all Sabbath services run by the women. The sermon strengthened our faith in the Lord, giving us the certainty that when we are in trouble, He is at our side and sustains us. After the moments of prayer, all the women were given a bouquet of mimosa, which was much appreciated. In the afternoon we visited our elderly and sick sisters who can no longer come to church. We brought them our love in Christ and a sweet thought that was very welcome. (Reported by Giuseppina Romano)
Altamura and Gravina (Bari) The Women’s Ministries of these two churches wanted to start the year 2018 wishing joy and serenity to all offering a little heart of felt to remind that all the things we do must be done with our heart and love. In addition, on the International Women's Day of Prayer, the sisters presented a message about God understanding us, remembering that even when we feel discouraged and depressed, as happened to Elijah, the Lord is bending over us, ready to give us new strength to start again. We must also have empathetic attitudes towards others and for this reason the Department of Women’s Ministries wanted to give a mimosa to all the members with a smile, to symbolize the serenity that pervades us when we learn to recognize that God loves us and understands us ALWAYS! (Reported by Bruna Rifino)