Above: Jashore YMCA
Since 1904, the World YMCA and the World YWCA have joined forces each year to celebrate the World Week of Prayer and World Fellowship. Held during the second week of November, this tradition brings together communities from across the globe in reflection, prayer, and unity.
Each year, a booklet is prepared with a central theme, daily Bible studies, and an annual Bible reading plan, providing a shared foundation for spiritual engagement. In 2024, the Week of Prayer was held from 10 to 16 November under the theme “Moving with Faith through the Elements.” This year’s reflections explored the significance of water, earth, fire, and wind in Scripture and our daily lives.
Prayer and reflection across the YMCA Movement
YMCAs worldwide embraced this year’s theme with creativity and devotion, hosting various events and activities spotlighting faith and community action. Here are a few highlights:
- Bogra YMCA, Bangladesh: A seminar inspired by this year’s theme brought the community together. Pastor Gilbert Mridha, head priest of Bogra Baptist Church, delivered a sermon, and General Secretary Robert Robin Marandi led a special service, creating a space for reflection and spiritual growth.
- Zambia YMCA: Held dedicated sessions exploring Bible readings and their relevance to daily life.
- Western Zone Nigeria YMCA: Committed an hour daily to worship, teaching, and prayer, fostering connection and reflection.
- YMCA Ireland: Shared daily reflections online to encourage engagement and participation.
- CVJM-Westbund (Germany): Conducted daily explorations of Scripture, delving into the elements in both spiritual and practical contexts.
YMCA Argentina
From Argentina to Senegal, countless YMCAs organised gatherings that reflected the theme, connecting communities through prayer and shared purpose.
This year’s World Week of Prayer demonstrated the power of unity in faith, as the YMCA and YWCA continue their commitment to building stronger communities and a more just world.
As we reflect on this week, let us carry forward the spirit of “Moving with Faith through the Elements,” using these reflections to inspire action and hope in our communities and beyond.
In the video below, Dori Gorman, Association Chaplain for YMCA of Middle Tennessee, USA, and a member of this year’s Week of Prayer planning team, shares insights on this year’s theme and how we can weave it into our daily lives.