From our Leaders
A popular proverb says, “A family that prays together stays together.”
All things work together for the good of those who love God. The COVID-19 pandemic was a tragic event for all of humanity. However, when faced with challenges, people seek solutions. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mennonite World Conference was able to create something positive: the launch of Online Prayer Hour.
Mennonite World Conference is a family of faith, a fellowship among brothers and sisters. We are not just an institution, but a living body with members from all over the world.
When we come together in prayer, it allows us to get to know one another better and to better understand each other’s challenges and successes. As one body, we sometimes go through different experiences of joy or sorrow.
Thus, prayer enables the body to remain steadfast, stable, united and victorious.
For me, prayer is the way I express my humility and my weakness before God. Lord, without you I can do nothing.
Prayer expresses my positive dependence on God. In this weakness, I need others; their witness and their prayers comfort me.
Personally, what I have learned from prayer is that when I put myself in someone else’s shoes, identify with them, and pray for them, that is when I realize that God takes my own worries and concerns to heart.
God said to Abraham: “I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you…” (Genesis 12). When we pray for and bless others, God, in effect, blesses us.
The online prayer time is a special moment that reminds me of King David’s words in Psalm 122:1: “I was glad when they say to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’” Let us rejoice and be glad as we pray together.
Online Prayer Hour strengthens our bonds and fosters harmony. Praying together gives us a sense of support, unity and a shared purpose.
I especially urge French speakers to participate more actively in the online prayer hour, which takes place every two months.
Let’s come together and pray!
—Siaka Traoré is part of the MWC Officers as continental adviser. He is a pastor and leader in Église Évangélique Mennonite du Burkina Faso.
Online Prayer Hour is a multi-language meeting that takes place every two months. All MWC members are welcome to join, from national church leaders to lay leaders and everyone in between.
Online Prayer Hour operates in five languages: English, Spanish, French, Hindi
and Portuguese (added September 2025).
Interpreters ensure attendees can understand the welcome and featured presentation in English, Spanish, French, Hindi and Portuguese.