World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of Christian women of many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer and action each year on the first Friday in March. Locally, LIFE - Lehighton Interfaith Fellowship - sponsors this annual event. The location chosen for March 3 is Grace Lutheran Church, Fourth and Mahoning streets. The service will begin at 7 p.m.

Each year a different country serves as the writer of the World Day of Prayer worship service, interpreting the Bible in their own context, and lifting up issues of mission, justice and peace that are important to them. The women from Cuba provided 2016's worship. For 2017, the women of the Philippines invite women to consider these words: "Am I being unfair to you?" from Matthew 20:1-16, the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. While Jesus sees nothing wrong in giving generously, the workers react differently and feel entitled to receive more. The women of the Philippines share stories of wisdom and traditions while answering God's call for justice and invite all to accept Jesus' infinite blessing.Offerings received are distributed as grants to nonprofit organizations within the U.S. and internationally concerning issues identified by the writer-country and World Day of Prayer committee. The Day of Prayer motto is "Informed prayer, prayerful action."Participants at the March 3 event at Grace Lutheran Church include the officiant, SALM Emma Weaver, Joan Mertz, Jenny Keiper, organist Jean Gothard and the choir. Women from area churches include: Mary Fay Levandusky, All Saints Episcopal; Shirley Stamm, First Presbyterian; Sherry Snyder, Zion UCC; Mary Ann Hazel, Trinity Lutheran. Philippine native Jean Andrews is guest vocalist. All are welcome.