Day of prayer set at churches

Staff report

World Day of Prayer will be observed Friday in more than 170 countries and regions including the Mahoning Valley.

The women of Malaysia wrote the program titled, “Let Justice Prevail.” Malysia is a multireligion country with Islam in the majority.

The service will include the story of Irene Fernandez, who reported the suffering of migrant workers. She was charged, found guilty of spreading false information and imprisoned for 13 years.

The program focuses on how fair and just government is the basis for harmony in the social order.

Valley observances are planned. The first organized day of prayer held nationally was in Canada on Jan. 9, 1920, and the United States had a day of prayer Feb. 20 that year.

Boardman area will host a service at 11 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Presbyterian Church, 3919 Southern Blvd.

Participants include Pastors Peter and Robbin Del Nagro; Rich Morgan, meterorologist of WKBN-TV; and Molly Galano, who will present background on Malaysia.

The program is open to all. A light lunch will follow.

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 550 N. Broad St., Canfield, will host the Canfield World Day of Prayer at 11 a.m. Participants will be Canfield Christian Church, Canfield Presbyterian Church, Canfield United Methodist Church, Western Reserve United Methodist Church, St. Michael Catholic Church and Lord of Life.

A salad luncheon will follow. Child care will be available.

First Presbyterian Church of Hubbard, 22 Westview Ave., Hubbard, will host Morning Star, a local sacred and contemporary band, in a World Day of Prayer concert at 7 p.m. The event is free.