Annick Dellettre, Women's Ministries (WM) Director at the Fédération France Nord, organized a wonderful spiritual gathering in Paris for around sixty WM leaders from local churches over the weekend of October 18-20, 2024. The theme was “Women in Mission and Action”.
The main aim of the weekend, which included participants from various regions of Northern France, was to give them tools to better accompany and mentor women in leadership roles in their churches.
“The Story of Women in the Bible”, presented by a pastor, consolidated their knowledge of the role of women in the Bible, exploring key figures such as Deborah, Esther, Mary and others. The session highlighted how these women responded to God's call despite the challenges of their times. The central message emphasized the importance for every woman today to draw inspiration from these role models to live her spiritual vocation to the full.
Thematic workshops
Developing your potential: This workshop enabled women to reflect on their unique gifts and talents. Discussions focused on the importance of cultivating skills and overcoming personal obstacles in order to serve effectively in the Church and society.
Self-esteem: The second session focused on self-confidence and self-image. The speaker encouraged participants to see themselves as God sees them, with love and kindness, reminding them that every woman is precious and endowed with inestimable value.
Violence and harassment in the workplace: This third workshop dealt with a particularly sensitive subject: harassment in the workplace and forms of violence in the context of Enditnow. The aim was to raise women's awareness of how to recognize and deal with these situations while providing tools and resources to protect themselves and take appropriate action when needed for those at risk.
The women came away strengthened, determined to put the lessons learned into practice, act as agents of change in their communities, and, from now on, better manage the challenges of everyday life. The theme “Women in Mission and Action” resonated deeply with the participants, encouraging them to take their place in society with faith, strength, and resilience.
Reported by Annick Dellettre, Women's Ministries Director NFC