January Newsletter | The Power of a Praying Woman
Deaconess Community,
This season I am thankful for the opportunity to reflect on the blessings this year has brought. While there is so much for us to do together in the months and years ahead, I want to take a moment to celebrate all who have made our work possible and our impact tangible. I am grateful for Deaconess’ staff, trustees and directors, our extensive network of partner organizations, our faith partners, and for each of you who are a part of our community, whether near or far. In this season of advent, I pray that hope, peace, love and joy fills your hearts, homes and communities.
As we welcome 2022, I share with you a gift I received my first few days here at Deaconess. As a centering offering Cheryl D.S. Walker, Deaconess’ former Interim President and CEO, recited a poem she penned years ago, The Power of A Praying Woman. I invite you to reflect on the power of a praying woman.
The Power of a Praying Woman
Cheryl D.S. Walker
Cheryl D.S. Walker
the power of a praying woman
shows in her hummmm,
as soothing as soft strokes on a furrowed brow
shows in her hummmm,
as soothing as soft strokes on a furrowed brow
the power of a praying woman
stands on ancestral shoulders
looks out for our futures
& transforms words into flesh
her humming prayers ignite
like a summer sun’s rising
& still like morning sky’s serene blueness
the power of a praying woman is found in her hum
perpetual & resounding
her gentle prayers & communion bring her closer to God
her soft humble humming brings her closer to God
learned listeners, spirit filled teachers
studying & preparing 2 b free bring her closer to God
a humble spirit keeps her closer
to God
for a praying woman is where
God lives
and hope resides
the power of a praying woman
lives in her hummmm
guttural like wailing moms’ cries
blood soaked from battle
thirsty
healing & healed
the power of a praying woman is ancestral
sankofa steeped
homemade hot butter rolled
harmonious & hymned
like pentecostal sundays, prayer meetings & tent revivals
the power of a praying woman is heard in her hummmm
her power is fueled by her spirited hallelujahs & soulful amens
her power packing prayers are sweet
like a gooey butter’s core
they’re amen draped
gospel coated & blues licked
the power of a praying woman lives in her hummmm
her power shows in her song
her power lives in her love
God’s love
the love of
One Father
One Son
One Spirit
One Love
One Father
One Son
One Spirit
One Love
One Father
One Son
One Spirit
One Love
a Supreme love
a love
Supreme
a love Supreme…
a love Supreme…
a love Supreme…
In service to the mission,
Bethany Johnson-Javois
President & CEO
Deaconess Foundation
To read the rest of our January eNewsletter, click here.