A Celebration of Sisterhood and Prayer in the Hampshire Countryside

24 Apr 2025, 09:57Praise GunjeHampshire, England, United Kingdom

A Celebration of Sisterhood and Prayer in the Hampshire Countryside

In the rolling hills of Hampshire, England, 30 women of all ages came together on 23 March for a soul-nourishing Prayer Breakfast celebrating International Women’s Month. Set in the countryside home of one of the Women’s Ministries leaders of Portsmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church, the gathering offered a beautiful blend of faith, fellowship and empowerment.

From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed by a warm, sisterly atmosphere. The home was adorned with thoughtful decor and the aroma of delicious homemade dishes filled the air. As the morning unfolded, the event opened with heartfelt reflections on the power and worth of women, anchoring the theme in unity and sisterhood.

Music played a central role in the morning’s worship as women shared cherished hymns and spiritual songs that had carried them through life's challenges. The voices of young and older women joined in harmony, a testament to the intergenerational bond that marked the day.

A highlight of the gathering was a message shared by Sister Esther Williams, who spoke passionately about the virtues of a praying woman. Drawing on the legacy of great women of faith, her message inspired the audience to lean into prayer as a powerful, personal connection with God.

The fellowship extended beyond the walls of the home. Guests stepped into the peaceful garden for a prayer walk, where the soft sounds of birdsong created a reverent backdrop. The experience continued with a gentle climb to a nearby hilltop, where attendees joined in song, including the hymn "Side by Side We Stand," looking out over a stunning countryside vista.

As the day drew to a close, each woman received a beautifully prepared gift box containing sweet treats and a prayer journal, a thoughtful reminder of the day’s spiritual journey and the encouragement to continue praying for one another.

"We wanted this event to be a place of renewal and connection," said Zola and Shannon. "There’s something powerful about women coming together to lift each other up in faith."

Organisers say this is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion for future events that will continue to build on this spirit of community and spiritual growth. The Women’s Ministries team hopes to create more opportunities where women can pause, reflect and walk side by side in faith.

Additional articles

Northolt SDA Church Hosts Free Health Checks for Local Community in Perivale

7 May 2025

Northolt SDA Church Hosts Free Health Checks for Local Community in Perivale

On Sabbath, 19th March 2025, Northolt Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted its annual Community Health Programme at Hope Community Church in Perivale, offering free health checks and lifestyle advice. With support from the Southall Drum Corps and health professionals, over 20 attendees received screenings and guidance, and heard an engaging diabetes lecture from Sis Gloria Simon. The event, which also featured goody bags and educational resources, was well received by the community, with many expressing eagerness for the next programme.

If Jesus Came in Modern Times: Barnet SDA Church Presents Contemporary Easter Drama

7 May 2025

If Jesus Came in Modern Times: Barnet SDA Church Presents Contemporary Easter Drama

On Sabbath 19 March, Barnet Seventh-day Adventist Church presented If Jesus Came in Modern Times, an Easter production by Sister L. Imbrah that reimagined Christ’s story in a contemporary setting. With community-wide attendance, the play featured courtroom scenes, live audience interaction, and modern media twists like BBC (Bethlehem Broadcasting Corporation) coverage. Despite challenges including last-minute casting and rehearsal changes, the Children and Youth Department powerfully shared the true message of Easter—Christ’s sacrifice and salvation—through creative drama.

Bringing Light to Autism Awareness: A Sabbath of Unity and Compassion

6 May 2025

Bringing Light to Autism Awareness: A Sabbath of Unity and Compassion

On Sabbath 5 April, Bury St Edmunds Seventh-day Adventist Church marked World Autism Awareness with a moving service themed “Bringing Light to Autism Awareness.” Led by the Nurture Department, the congregation wore blue to show support, highlighting the importance of inclusion and understanding for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Rooted in Psalm 139:14 and 1 Corinthians 12:22, the message called for churches to reflect Christ’s love by creating welcoming spaces for the neurodivergent and embracing all as “fearfully and wonderfully made.”