On a dreary morning with rain persisting from the night before, a beacon of warmth and inspiration awaited within the walls of Victory church in Bronx, New York. Despite the challenging weather, the Greater New York Conference (GNYC) Women’s Ministries Training Workshop unfolded with unwavering enthusiasm and a commitment to the theme, “Women in Urban Mission.” Led by Lisa D. González, Women’s Ministries director, and supported by Myrna Harris, local Women’s Ministries leader, Dorrage Stephens, associate pastor, and his dedicated technical crew, the event promised to be an enlightening and empowering experience.
The day commenced with a touching devotional titled “I Believe,” delivered by Maria Elena Godoy Siciliano, a registered dietitian and member of Hartsdale church. Her words resonated with the listeners, emphasizing that every believer is a representative of Jesus Christ in God’s family and kingdom. In a delightful transition from the insightful presentations, Michelle Broomfield, GNYC Children’s Ministries coordinator, skillfully orchestrated an engaging icebreaker with the participants. With warmth and enthusiasm, she encouraged them to invite the Holy Spirit to impress upon them a keyword—a guiding theme for the year concerning their ministry or service.
González provided insightful presentations on the multifaceted role of women in ministry and the broader scope of urban mission. The workshop continued with compelling contributions from Michelle Odinma, Church of the Advent Hope Community Life pastor, and Racquel Pierre, Adventist Community Services director. Their discussions on homelessness, literacy, migrants, and food insecurity in New York City were informative and highlighted the importance of understanding the root causes before addressing the problems.
The presenters shared a standout example demonstrating the power of proactive community engagement. Upon discovering a literacy issue at the local elementary school, Odinma and Pierre’s team volunteered and provided volunteers to read to the children. They also secured a grant to rebuild the library, providing brand-new books. This tangible expression of love echoed the words of Matthew 25:40 and emphasized the transformative impact of helping those in need.
Della Patton, Women’s Ministries Evangelism Advisory member and North Bronx church Personal Ministries director, introduced an exciting street ministry initiative. Collaborating with women’s ministries leaders across the conference, they aim to win souls through significant events, starting with the Women’s Ministries evangelistic series on March 8-16, with presenter Peggy Filossaint, Maranatha Haitian church associate pastor. The rallying call was apparent throughout the conference: When God’s people are united for His cause, there are no limits to what the Lord can achieve through them. Lloyd Scharffenberg, GNYC Corporation secretary, and Bianel Lara, GNYC Personal Ministries and Church Planting director, closed out this segment for the attendees with a prayer of commitment.
Lara concluded the day with an inspiring talk. He urged attendees not to be “passive Christians” and emphasized the importance of seizing every opportunity to share the gospel.
Despite the weather challenges, the Women’s Ministries Training Workshop was a resounding success, marking the largest in-person gathering since before the pandemic. The gratitude extended to the Victory church pastors and members, presenters, committee members, interpreters, and participants reflects the spirit of unity and collaboration that will undoubtedly propel the mission of winning souls for the kingdom of God. May we continue to be His hands and feet, making a lasting impact in our communities.
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Women’s Ministries team and Clavour Tucker, communication director, Greater New York Conference
