By Bonnie Whitehead
AYTON – A World Day of Prayer service on the theme Come-Everything is Ready, created through the eyes of the women of Slovenia, was held here on March 1.
Ladies of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ayton welcomed women and men to the service.
Slovenia is located close to Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. The poster created for the service by artist Rezka Arnus pictured the traditions and hospitality of Slovenia.
Eileen Becker told the story of Marjeta, who had to leave her homeland in search of peace and a better life. Diane Pfeffer read how Mojca studied to become a researcher with the support of her family. Velma Weppler expressed that Marija feels initiatives should be developed to assist the aging population and Ema would like to depart from the disruptive effects of alcoholism. Marlene Weltz shared Natasha’s story regarding the deplorable living conditions for those socially excluded.
Guest speaker Pastor Heather Spencer visited Slovenia in 1976 enjoying the breathtaking vistas while delighting in the hospitality of its people. She showed a tourist video capturing the natural beauty of the land and shared a historical snapshot highlighting the progress and challenges of politics, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourist trade, stating the country is rich in resources though filled with social injustices.
Pastor Heather Spencer offered prayers of thanksgiving and Eileen Becker offered the blessing.
