Churches Together in Epsom held their 2019, World Day of Prayer Service at St Joseph’s Catholic Church on Friday March 1.

One hundred and twenty people attended from a number of churches and faiths, and the choir from St Joseph’s Primary School enhanced the service with their musical contribution.

Epsom and Ewell Mayor, Councillor Neil Dallen, and the Mayoress, Mrs Ann Dallen, also attended.

Each year the Service is prepared by the women of a particular country. The 2019 theme ‘Come, Everything is Ready’ was developed by a group of women from Slovenia.

During the service, five readers shared stories which reflected the recent political and economic development of Slovenia.

Breeda Walsh helped host the event and said that the attendees had all responded positively to the unique service.

Ms Walsh said: "It was a very successful day. A number of people said afterwards how uplifting and inspiring they found it."

Following the Service, visitors were invited to share refreshments in the Church Hall, including ‘Slovenian Licitar’, heart shaped biscuits made from honey from Carniola bees.

There was also a display of photographs and pictures depicting the life and culture of Slovenia.

The country of focus for the 2020 World Day of Prayer will be Zimbabwe.