Pocatello celebrates world day of prayer

Friday is World Day of Prayer. Pocatello celebrated by holding three prayer services around town in honor of it.

One was at First Presbyterian Church, another at Portneuf Sangha and Meditation Center, and a third at the Islamic Center.

World Day of Prayer was originally started in the nineteenth century by a group of Christian women. Since then, it has grown to be an international day of prayer organized by Christians around the world. Each year has a theme which is chosen by a different country each year. This year’s theme was “Peace and Justice” and was chosen by the Philippines.

Those who helped organize and participate in services said it’s a great way for people to come together and that prayer can be a powerful way to unite others.

“I think it’s important that we can come together and really, no matter what our particular denomination or faith is that we share a common goal of prayer and peace and justice,” said Betsy Loxterman, a member of the Presbyterian women’s group.

Anyone was welcome to participate, regardless of religion.

World Day of Prayer is an annual event, usually the first Friday in March.