Day of Prayer and Action for Children- Liberia

Religious leaders, elders and children in Monrovia Liberia undertook a week of interfaith prayers from the 16^th -21^st of November 2010 in commemoration of the World Day of Prayers and Action for Children (DPAC) and the UN international children’s day. Supported by the women’s desk of the Liberia’s Africa Council of Religious leaders (ACRL) which represents the country’s women of faith network, UNICEF, the Gender Ministry, the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) Africa and other groups including the Seventh Day Adventists (SDA) the Muslim community and the Catholic Church- the religious leaders mobilized 150 children for special prayers and honor at the ACRL offices on 20^th November 2010. Besides the interfaith prayers, the children and invited guests were treated to brief presentations in honor of children rights some refreshments and meals. The SDA group was also more visible on this Saturday making special appeals to their members to spare some thought and time for prayers and acts of good for the children especially the less fortunate ones who have been victims of Liberia long internal conflicts.

Earlier on the 16^th of November 2010 the Muslim community’s religious leaders while observing and celebrating the end of the Hajj pilgrimage took the opportunity to pray for children of Liberia and the world. The Muslim community gathered after the Eid prayers to make special prayers for the children and advocate for their continued protection and care. The weeks’ Friday prayers in local mosques were also used for prayers for children, advocacy around children issues and rights as Muslim religious leaders reminded their followers on the precious gift that children are to humanity.

The celebrations ended on Sunday 21^st December when the president of the ACRL council called on all religious leaders and people of Liberia to re-double their efforts in caring for the children. The Catholic Church also organized special prayers on this date and reminded their followers on their duty towards children.  Some religious leaders like Sheikh Mohammed Sheriff are advocating that in future DPAC activities and prayers be held and organized on a week basis rather than a day to ensure greater impact and outcome.