Russellville Church Observes Women’s Day of Prayer

RUSSELLVILLE, ARK. – Members and guests at the Russellville Seventh-day Adventist Church gathered March 7 to observe International Women’s Day of Prayer, a worldwide initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church focused on faith and intercessory prayer.

The service featured a message from Marjorie Belizaire, health ministries director for the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference. The sermon, titled “A Woman, Faith and Prayer,” was originally written by Ardis Stenbakken, former General Conference Women’s Ministries director.

Drawing from Mark 7 and Matthew 15, Belizaire reflected on the story of a Canaanite woman who persistently sought healing for her daughter. Despite silence, cultural barriers and discouragement, the woman’s faith remained steadfast as she continued to seek Jesus for help.

“Faith is not faith until faith is all you are holding on to,” Belizaire told the congregation, encouraging listeners to trust God even when answers to prayer seem delayed.

The message emphasized perseverance in faith and reliance on God’s mercy rather than human effort. Attendees were encouraged to approach God with confidence, trusting that He hears and responds to sincere prayer.

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By Sabra Bartlett Hrncirik

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