Focus on the News
Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID)
In Malawi Women Cheer the Sick
Over 100 women from Ndirande District cheered the sick at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi, on Sunday, November 7, 2010. Through contributions made by the women, church members, and well wishers, items worth over MK70,000 (US $400) were distributed to patients in the tuberculosis ward. Each patient received a pack of maize flour, rice, sugar, salt, fish and soap.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mrs Chanza, President of Ndirande District Women's Ministries, said they targeted patients in the TB ward because these patients stay longer in hospital, thus, making the need for replenishing basic supplies more pronounced. In addition to distributing the items, the women had an opportunity to share the Word of God with the patients.
By Margaret Masamba, Women's Ministries Director, Malawi Union.
Southern-Asia Pacific Division (SSD)
Women's Ministries Leadership Certification
In September the Women's Ministries (WM) Department of the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) Church sponsored the first of four levels of the General Conference WM Leadership Certification. The purpose of this program was to develop skills that will enable the women of the church to serve in positions of leadership wherever they may be around the world. This will help them to reach others for Christ. Under the motto "Women in Leadership," 11 speakers, qualified professionals and members of the AIIAS faculty presented the topics for Level 1 Program. More than 100 women attended the course consistently.
The WM Department of AIIAS Church hopes to continue with the remaining levels of this program. As E. G. White reminds us, "There is a higher purpose for woman, a grander destiny. She should develop and cultivate her powers, for God can employ them in the great work of saving souls from eternal ruin." -Evangelism, p. 465
By Nilde Lust, Women's Ministries Director, AIIAS Church, Silang, Cavite, Philippines
Southern Asia Division (SUD)
Women's Ministries Meetings
The Eastern Jharkhand Section in India has three women's groups called circles. Women from all three circles gathered in Taljhari, Bisunpur, in September. This area is rural and surrounded by mountains and jungles.
The women of this area are very hungry for God's word and for opportunities to strengthen their faith. They did not care about the lack of electricity or running water, but travelled from far areas, half way by bus or train and half way on foot, to attend the meeting.
Out of 60 women present, certificates were given to 45 who were regular in attendance and completed the Women's Ministries Certification Level 1 and 2. Along with the certification course, they were given instruction on how to caring for their health, good habits of cleanliness, good manners, vegetarian diet, and the importance of literacy.
