From November 7 to 9, at the Adventist Church in Granada, we experienced a weekend full of excitement, reflection, and fellowship, thanks to the visit of Mercedes Martínez Bou, Women's Ministries Director of the Spanish Adventist Union (UAE). Through different topics, workshops, and activities, Mercedes led us to look with new eyes at the stories of women who suffered, both in the Bible and in history, and to recognize how God restored them with tenderness, purpose, and hope. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9NIV).
Empathy, Sisterhood, and Teamwork
Under the slogan “ENDITNOW,” Adventists say NO to violence in any form. The meeting began on Friday evening with the theme “The strength of the one who was not heard,” based on the story of Tamar (2 Samuel 13), through which we were able to empathize with those who are victims of the perversion caused by sin and reflect on our responsibility as a church to support these people and denounce the abuse of the most vulnerable. On Sabbath, during the sermon “God's Path to Resilience,” Mercedes reminded us that faith is a path to healing, where the Lord restores dignity and purpose to those who have been hurt or abused because of their condition. In the afternoon, during the workshop “Women in the Bible Who Suffered Trauma,” we learned to look at the scriptures from the perspective of those who suffered, but who were lifted up by divine love. In addition to the lectures, it was a time of deep learning about how to accompany those who suffer assertively and compassionately. Through activities and testimonies, we experienced the power of empathy, sisterhood, and teamwork. We also learned the importance of knowing ourselves in order to be instruments of God's love.
Testimonies, tears, and hugs
On Sunday morning, the women of the church shared a breakfast filled with fellowship. Afterwards, they enjoyed a very special activity led by Mercedes, where bonds of trust, faith, and mutual support were strengthened. Throughout the weekend, the church experienced many emotional moments. Many hearts were touched, and there was no shortage of testimonies, tears, and sincere hugs. It was an experience where God manifested Himself in every word, every gesture, and every glance. It reminded us that the church can be a safe place to heal, grow, and trust again. The Adventist Church in Granada is deeply grateful for Mercedes Martínez Bou's visit and the valuable ministry she carries out. Through her sensitivity, affection, and humility, she has encouraged each woman to discover her value in Christ and to reflect His love in the lives of others. Thanks also to Inés Ortiz, leader of the Women's Ministry of the Granada church, and Pastor Alexis García, for making this beautiful gathering possible.
According to a report by Estefanía Rodríguez Romero, from the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Granada.
Photographs: María Isabel Jiménez and Gabriela Rodríguez.
https://revista.adventista.es/ministerio-de-la-mujer-en-granada-un-mensaje-de-restauracion/