Ankole Women's Ministry |
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When I first came to Mbarara in February of 2002, I had many hopes and dreams for the Ankole women in our rural churches. Most of my expectations were based on my previous experience among the Kalenjin people group of Western Kenya. These are a few of the expectations I came to Uganda with: In a few short years I would be fluent in the Runyankole language. Also after 2 or 3 years, I would have identified several women leaders in our churches whom I would train to teach and guide the women in their villages. These women would establish weekly village meetings where the women would gather for times of prayer, praise, and Bible study. The village women would also encourage and strengthen each other through regular (monthly) church cluster meetings arranged and led by the leaders. (A “cluster” is two or more churches close enough in proximity to help one another, and who share in fellowship and ministry efforts.) I praise God that most of those dreams are being realized — except for the “fluent in Runyankole” part... But I keep plugging away! I was probably most excited about the special friendships which I anticipated God would bring into my life. I was not to be disappointed. God has given me some priceless friends, and I look forward to the years ahead as those friendships deepen and as other special ones emerge. What I had NOT anticipated was the phenomenal group of 16 leaders which God would bless my life and ministry with. It feels kind of like I went to the dessert table expecting a decent brownie or chocolate chip cookie, and found my Grandma’s fresh-baked pecan pie instead! Don’t you just love surprises like that? Much of my time is spent with this special group of women. I can’t wait to share my “pie” with you through photos and stories of them and the women whom they influence in their villages. Another unexpected gift from God to me is the partnership of my teammate, Andrea Baker, in my work with the "Abahweezi." It is such a blessing to dream and plan and teach with someone who loves the Ankole women as I do! Watch for our updates on the Ladies Ankole Bible School (L-ABS), news about the work of the Abahweezi (women leaders or helpers), and reports from the village and cluster meetings. Prayer Requests for the Village Women's Ministry: (1) Pray that the story of Moses and the Law in our next L-ABS course Nov. 9-11 will give the Abahweezi a life-changing glimpse of the glory and majesty of the Supreme God. (2) Pray specifically for two of our Abahweezi: Peace, who has been very discouraged over some family difficulties, and Beatrice who would love to continue meeting and serving with the Abahweezi but is unable to do so at present because of other obligations. NOTE: To learn more about the Ankole Rural Women's Ministry, check out Lori's blog at: http://www.ankole.blogspot.com |
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