OPENING WORSHIP AT THE FRAUMUNSTER

Guests were in awe in front of the impressive stone gothic building dating back to 853AD and their amazement continued when they entered the building with its grand pillars and especially the spectacular colourful stained glass windows designed in 1970 by the famous Russian artist, Marc Chagall.

There was a buzz in the church - participants were talking religion and feminism, as well as debriefing from the day’s activities. Whether at the entrance or inside, many people excitedly bumped into friends not seen since last World Council and catching up on their news – and of course everyone was taking pictures to immortalise a special moment in a  special venue.

The moving and both solemn and joyful interactive service put together by a group of Swiss women theologians and led by two women pastors, reflected the traditions of the host country while including many other nations through messages and prayers in various languages by women from every continent and hymns from across the globe. The church vibrated to the sounds of the choir and the chanting audience. The service truly reflected the global nature of the YWCA and echoed the theme of the Council “Women creating a safe space”.

Participants left the church feeling good and confident that attending the International Women’s Summit and World YWCA Council was going to be a memorable experience.