On this day the United Nations recognizes “the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.”  This day invites us to call for action to better support rural women and girls through greater access to healthcare and education, financing of micro businesses to supplement their family and community incomes, and the establishment of inheritance and legal rights in areas where these do not exist.  In order to lift families and communities out of poverty, rural women must be given full and equal status with men in making decisions that affect them, their families and their communities.

God, we thank you for the many gifts that rural women bring to our world.  Help us to learn from them how to live in harmony with nature.  As they continue to inspire us with their determination to better their own lives and the lives of their families and communities, may we work together with them for a more just and sustainable way of life.