Touching the Hearts of Young and Old

WM in the South Africa Union Conference (SAUC) has set itself an admirable goal—reaching all women—young and old—through WM. Under the capable and inspired leadership of Ivy Petersen, WM director for the union, that goal has become reality. As a result there are two arms of WM in the union. Adventist Women's Ministries (AWM) for all women and Young Adventist Women's Ministries (YAWM) for young women in the church ranging in age from 13 - 30. YAWM was founded by Gladys Xhamela, a pastor's wife with a passion for mentoring young women.

While in SAUC in October Heather-Dawn Small spoke at three WM retreats held on two separate weekends. The first one was at Henly-on-Klip. In attendance were women of all ages with separate seminars for the AWM and the YAWM. Approximately 1500 women attended. The theme was "We Are Nearing Home" and focused on how we can stay ready for that great event by holding on to our joy in Jesus and keeping our devotional life consistent and strong.

The following weekend two retreats were held in Hartenbos. This time the YAWM and AWM retreats were held at separate venues a few miles apart. The theme for the AWM was the same as the previous weekend and the YAWM theme was "Teens for Christ—Here and Hereafter." Some 2000 women attended the second AWM retreat and 80 at the YAWM retreat. All attendees felt that their zeal for WM and desire to witness for the Lord received a much needed boost. The buzz words were "Don't let anyone steal your joy" and smiles, hugs and laughter were very much evident. While there Small also spoke to the young women at Heldeberg College and at Riverside and Bassonia churches.

Some of the young women from YAWM Hartenbos Retreat

WM in SAUC is growing by leaps and bounds. The women are excited about working for their Lord and are committed to their church. With the start of the New Year this union will no longer be an attached field of the GC but will be part of the new Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID). Our prayers are with them in this time of transition.

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Prayer Corner