As our friends in the U.S. were celebrating the 4th, we were participating in the graduation ceremony for the Hope Tailoring School. 16 women received their diplomas for completing 9 months at the school. It was a different graduation than most of us are used to. The women danced and sang praises to God. They presented a drama. We gave them gifts and they gave us gifts of bags they had made. Finally, it was time for me to give the graduation speech. I wanted to give them a word of encouragement as women stepping out to provide hope for their families and communities through their new skills. I told them the story of Tabitha in Acts 9. Tabitha, even though a woman, was called a disciple. She committed herself to caring for widows who had no one else to support them. She was a seamstress who made clothing and coats for those in need. When she got sick and died, it was a blow to the community and they sent for Peter. Peter prayed calling on the name of Jesus, and brought her back to life. God agreed that her ministry was too important to die. In this way God affirmed the importance of a woman. In a culture in which women are not always affirmed, I felt it was important to let these women know that they are important and valued.
When the women received their diplomas, family members came right up front to get their pictures taken. The women were so elated! Five of the top students plus the two most improved students received sewing machines. The top student had perfect attendance and walked 15 kilometers to school every day. What commitment! When she received her sewing machine, she wept with joy. Those sewing machines are huge for them as it gives them the opportunity to start their business right away and to begin making an income to support their families.
Over and over AFUMC was thanked and asked to please please continue this school. It means so much to them. Thank you for your generosity and keep these women, their teacher and Hope Tailoring School in your prayers.
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