Asian Church Women's Conference

Koh Pich Tragedy, Cambodia

2010-12-09T16:40:00.000+08:00

2010/11/30
Dear Friends/brothers and sisters-in-the Lord,
This is the biggest tragedy since the Pol Pot regime. We met with heavy hearts, three hundred and forty seven (221 female ) died and three hundred more were injured last November 22, 2010 night in a stampede on Diamond Island's north bridge, bringing a tragic close to final day of water Festival celebration in Phnom Penh. This tragic, untimely and unexpected loss of many lives will remain a bitter and painful memory for Cambodia. This is an incident that no one wanted to happen.
In response, the government of Cambodia, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Sen, has been very generous with assistance to the affected families. The dead were have been given free coffins and free transportation by army vehicles to their respective home, the injured receiving free medical care, and every bereaved family is expected to be a gift of compassion.
My executive committee, my staff and I are initiating a survey with our member in 117 churches that we currently work in to see if there is anything we can do to help any affects families. We want to be good neighbors to them in this time of need. On November 26, 2010 KCC has raised some funds from few our churches members to contribute to people who are injured in Kosomak Hospital.
We are all to be reminded of our own frailty as we see and witness the bodies of people who were once alive and vibrant and now still and unmoving- the breath of life snuffed from them.
May God allow His people to be compassionate and sharing to reach out to those who suddenly mourn the loss of loved ones!

ACWC- YOUNG WOMEN’S FORUM- 2010 REPORT

2010-12-06T15:33:00.005+08:00

15th October, 2010, Bogor, Indonesia

By God’s grace, the first Young Women’s forum (YWF) of ACWC was held on 15th October, 2010 at Kinasi Conference, Bogor, Indonesia from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm, on the previous day of the 14th Quadrennial Assembly of ACWC.

The theme of the forum was “Breaking Silence: Young Women’s Unspoken Experiences in Asian Churches and Society”. The total number of participants was 21 with 18 young women from 12 countries (Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and East Timor) and 3 “young in mind” senior sisters. The participants had a wonderful day together sharing love, learning a lot through the sessions and having very fruitful discussions after hearing from all the countries present.

The programme included Morning Worship, Bible Study by Ms. Gloria (Bangladesh), Study “Re-reading of the Bible through Women’s Eyes” by Ms. Shanthi Mathai (India), “Reflections on the Value and Blessings of Meeting Ecumenically” by Ms. Cora Tabing Reyes (Exe. Secretary, ICFLC),“Knowing ACWC and YWF” by Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang, (Exe. Secretary, ACWC), sharing from all the countries focusing on the social realities and role of young women in Church and Society which was followed by group discussion Then the delegates came together and worked out the action plan and recommendations to the ACWC Assembly.

Issues/Concerns/Problems

The main issues/concerns/problems raised were
1. Young Women are often neglected in Church and society in such a way that they are often
seen and expected as silent listeners during decision making.
2. Young women who are trained and equipped theologically are not recognized by Churches in
many countries.
3. Women are not given prominent role in political scene
4. Inferior status of women in Church and society
5. Human trafficking, prostitution etc.
6. Violence against Women
7. HIV/AIDS
8. Abortion, Baby dumping etc.
9. Abuse of teenagers and young women in Churches 10. Patriarchal structure of society
10. Patriarchal structure of society
11. Lack of opportunity for young women to bring inputs and voices at all levels
12. Multiple tasks and responsibilities expected from women

Action Plan

How can we turn these concerns into empowerment and action? There are many barriers as the young women have many constraints like studies, work, young family, small children etc. In the midst of all these, the participants of the Young Women’s Forum prepared the following action plan.
1. Work as ambassadors of ACWC and YWF in their local area and Church
2. Keep up consistent connection through social network, form e-group, conduct ecumenical
gatherings wherever possible and start news letter where young women can share their
problems.
3. Support each other in life realities.
4. Prepare a list of medical professionals like doctors and nurses, and collect details about the
facilities like medicines available in each country so that during emergencies like natural
calamities, quick assistance can be sought.
5. Set apart a portion of personal tithe for ACWC
6. Organise fundraising for ACWC’s educational programmes
7. Network for scholarships.

Recommendations to ACWC and FLC

We recommend to ACWC and ICFLC
1. to focus on young women’s empowerment and activities in Asian countries, especially
through regional programmes
2. To organise Young Women’s Forum as a regular programme of ACWC before every
Quadrennial assembly.
3. Engage students who avail scholarships from ACWC and FLC in ACWC and FLC activities.
4. Support inter-faith dialogues in different countries as in many of the countries in Asia,
Christians are a minority.
5. Programme prayer partners for young women.

The participants of the YWF thank ACWC and FLC for organizing this Forum and thank God for the opportunity given to them. We hope and pray that ACWC would continue strengthening young women through Young Women’s Forum in future also.
Shanthi Mathai (India)
Convener, ACWC-YWF- 2010

List of Participants, ACWC-YWF-2010

1. Shanthi Mathai, India - shanthipjv@yahoo.com
2. Pdt. Yul. Lagandesa, Indonesia - yullagandesa@yahoo.com
3. Olvie Supit, Indonesia – olviesupit@yahoo.com
4. Olha Losv, Indonesia - olha_losv@yahoo.com
5. Rachel Pradhan, India- rachelpradhan98@gmail.com
6. Jyoti Shrestha, Nepal –jyotishrestha1975@gmail.com
7. Naw Say Kio, Myanmar – say.deborah@gmail.com
8. Christa Damongilala – kristadee@yahoo.com
9. Glennie Ann, Malaysia – glennie_gurl@hotmail.com
10. Elen Ira Maia, East Timor – maia.ellen@yahoo.com
11. Lin, Chen-Chu, Taiwan – pure3838@yahoo.com.tw
12. Leorie Petil- Marquez, Philippines – leoriemarquez@yahoo.com
13. Munkhtuul, Mongolia - mtuul.sod@gmail.com
14. Boggie, Mongolia – bkhalzan@yahoo.com
15. TeRito Peyroux, NZ – tauiwiyouth@methodist.org.nz
16. Indra Porniah, Sri Lanka – indravictor@gmail.com
17. Suchitra Behera, Bangladesh – crystalbangla@yahoo.co.in
18. Gloria Kalpona, Bangladesh – kalponasarker@gmail.com

2011-2014 ACWC Gen. Co. Members

2010-12-06T14:51:00.002+08:00

1. Australia: Donna Bryan/ President

2. Bangladesh: Rrosline Elora Adhikari

3. Cambodia: Arun Rasmey Van

4. Hong Kong:___________________

5. India: Sabitha Kanukolanu

6. Indonesia: Krise Anki Gosal

7. Japan: Tomoko Watanabe

8. Korea: Chung Hee Lee/ Executive Committee member

9. Malaysia: Shakuntala Abraham/ Assembly Secretary

10. Mongolia: Munkhtuul Sodnomtseren

11. Myanmar: Zohming Thang

12. Nepal: Bishnu Maya Rai

13. Aoteraoa-New Zealand: Jennifer McKinnon

14. Pakistan: :___________________

15. Philippines: Columba C. Eclipse

16. Singapore: Jenny Phuah/ Honorary Treasurer

17. Sri Lanka: Roshini Mendis

18. Taiwan: Hsing-Ling Lee

19. Thailand: Siriat Pusurinkham

20. Thailand: Oranat Katue/ Executive Committee member

21. Sri Lanka: Devika Ukwatte/ Vice President

22. Singapore: Bagavathy Manimagalai

23. Malaysia : Mary Thomas Mathew

24. Mongolia: Bolormaa

25. Taiwan: Chen-Chu Lin/ Executive Committee member

26. * Moon-Sook Lee (Korea) , ACWC Executive Secretary, Ex./ Gen.-Officio Member

27. * Corazon Tabing-Reyes, ICFLC Executive Secretary, Ex./ Gen.-Officio Member

The Statement of the 14th Quadrennial Assembly

2010-11-08T16:10:00.004+08:00

We the 59 delegates and 185 observers and guests from 26 countries, came together to deliberate on the theme of the Assembly “ Asian Women Moving Forward : Non –Violent World, New Earth, Life in its Fulleness”, 15-20 October, 2010 at Kinasih conference, Bogor, Indonesia.

We Acknowledge

• We rejoice in the Lord that Asian Women inspite of their various restricting circumstances are determined to move forward.

• We understand that ACWC is committed to bring fullness of life for women and all creation.

The Present Scenario

• Asian countries are burdened with poverty, illiteracy, unhygienic living conditions, the ugly prong of HIV & AIDS and aggressive consumption of natural resources affect women and children.

• Asian countries bear the result of environmental pollution, ecological imbalance.

• Family violence is inherent in the Asian socio-cultural tradition.

• Social evils like human trafficking and dowry system prevent women from enjoying the fullness of life, denying them basic human rights.

We dedicate ourselves

• As co-workers in God’s creation and with prayerful spirit, we shall take initiatives and moves to improve the value of women in church, society and family.

• God’s word is the source of our strength, so we shall urge member churches of ACWC to re-read the Bible from women’s perspective for its liberating power and way to fullness of life.

• We value the strength and future leadership of young women so ACWC & FLC should motivate, mentor and induct them as ambassadors.

• As we live in a pluralistic society we the church women should stand together side by side and hand in hand in love and peace.

• We will be good caretakers of God’s blessings, and fulfill God’s purposes of transforming women’s lives for a better world.

• ACWC has the prophetic vision to bring about change in the lives of people so that they may have a fullness of life that God promises.

Being Christian women of Asia, we pledge to carry out this prophetic tasks for the realization of a non-violent world, a new earth and life in its fullness.

The devastation caused by the great floods around Peshawar

2010-08-06T16:54:00.002+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:

Last week from News we knew that Pakistan was attacked by heavy rain and floods. Today, the ACWC Secretariat Office received Neelam’s updates. I share it with you and please pray for our sisters and brothers in Pakistan. Later the ACWC Officers will discuss how could we help Pakistan.

-----------------------------------------
2010/8/6

Dear Shu-Wen

After terrorism through which Pakistan's infrastructure is badly shaken besides the Country's bad image in the world. This is the second time it is facing a devastating natural disaster. Attached photos is just a glimps of some areas where Entire villages have been wiped off the face of the earth. Near Attock bridge where Indus and Kabul river join to enter into the narrow gorge the water had risen at least 40 feet .The residents are lying on the road sides some in tents and some otherwise , there is no water to drink as everything has a great layer of silt brought on by the flood waters. Private people were supplying food and water to the stricken people.

Re-building task that this country will have to bear probably The Government is least bothered politicians are after politics only.

Almost three provinces out of four are shaken badly & it is still going on. Unfortunately poor people living in villages have mud houses & they are now even deprived of those. People have no shelter no food to eat. Even in cities due to the reason that the food supplies, vegetables & Fruits/grains rice everything is coming from those areas the crops are all damaged so for common man providing food to family is becoming impossible .The rates of what is available is three times increased. The country is again in a state of disaster.

Almost 12 schools of the organization I am working with are under water. Children of all those schools are displaced .parents have migrated to other places. Altogether as per UNO 40,000 people lost everything.

In this time of need I request ACWC family to stand in faith with us. Kindly pray for those who are effected & for Peace in this part of the world.

Neelam Ernest
National Rep Pakistan

High Lights of the 14th ACWC Assembly

2010-06-23T16:15:00.000+08:00

The theme for the 14th Quadrennial General Assembly of Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) is: Asian Women Moving Forward: Non-Violent World/ New Earth/ Life in its Fullness. The liturgy for the 2010 ACWC Day is being developed using the conference theme. The ACWC planning committee discussed how to focus the theme on the panel and the Bible study of the Assembly with the host--Indonesia. Following the theme of the Assembly, speakers of panel will cover two different religious perspectives to encourage Asian women. Therefore we invited two excellent female leaders from the host country--Indonesia, as our key note speakers. One will give the Christian’s viewpoint--Revd. Indriani Bone, and the other the Muslim’s perspective--Ms. Siti Musdah Mulia. Although the ACWC Assembly is for Christian Women, Indonesia is the biggest Muslim country of the world and this will be a good opportunity for us to listen to the different voices between us. For the Bible study, it is our privilege to have Revd. Lientje Pelu to host the two sessions.

I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the program of the Young Women’s Forum (YWF) which will be held on 15 October--the date before the Assembly. ACWC requests that one of four voting delegates from each member country should be under 40 years of age. This regulation was created to provide the opportunity for more young women to join the ACWC. Therefore, the YWF is a platform for the younger generation’s gathering. Their discussion will be presented at the Assembly. It is important to maintain an intergenerational dimension in an ecumenical organization. The younger generation gives us future thinking and the older generation teaches us from their experience.

Another important grogram of the Assembly is group discussion. We will have 4 issues: 1) Natural Disaster in Asia, 2)Ecology and Women, 3)Family Violence & Gender Relations and 4) Human Trafficking. During the 14th Assembly, we will go through some official business: 1) discuss our future program and projects, 2) amend the ACWC Constitutions and By-Law, 3) welcome the new incoming ACWC Executive Secretary (2011-2014) and 4) elect the new General Committee and Executive Committee members (2011-2014). We are proud of that from the ACWC history we do not lobby for the election. Our Lord always arranges the right person and leadership for the ACWC.

Finally, please remember our host’s hard work and efforts in preparing for the Assembly. Remember them in your prayer.

The Report of Visit Korea on 17-19 May, 2010

2010-05-28T11:52:00.007+08:00

In 2008, when the ACWC General Committee members met in Taiwan, we talked about the upcoming vacancy of the Executive Secretary (2011-2014). The ACWC President, Vice President/ Honour Treasurer and the Assembly Secretary were appointed to be the Search Committee members. The interview of the candidates was held on 01 Feb. 2010, in Jakarta, Indonesia. Later the ACWC Secretariat Office sent the decision of the Committee and the voting ballot to all General Committee members. The whole General Committee welcomes Revd. Lee, Moon Sook of Korea as our new Executive Secretary for the next four years (2011- 2014). Revd. Lee was the General Secretary, Korea Church Women United (ecumenical body of eight mainline Protestant denominations), 2001 –May 2009.

We know that the Korean Churches have always given generous support to ecumenical missions around the world. Since September 2002 Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang started her first term as the ACWC Ex. Sec., she has received the full support from the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT), the ACWC National Body in Taiwan—the Women’s Committee of the PCT and her own local church—the Taipei East Gate Presbyterian Church. Therefore the ACWC humbly expects that the Korean Church could also support the New Ex. Sec. from Korea as the Taiwan churches have done for Shu-Wen.

By helpful arrangements of Revd. Lee, Moon Sook on 17-19 May, 2010 Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang traveled to Korea as a representative of the ACWC to seek the support of Korean Churches: 1) Korea Church Women United (KCWU), 2) Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK), 3) National Church Women's Association of PROK (NCWA-PROK) and 4) National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) for our new Secretary.

The outcome of the visitation was fruitful. Shu-Wen met:

Meeting with Rev. Kwon, O Sung, General Secretary of NCCK (right from left)

Revd. Choe , Soyoung (the General Secretary of the KCWU)

Revd. Bae, Tae-Jin (the General Secretary of PROK), and Revd. Yoo, Keun-Sook (the Gen. Sec. of the NCWA of PROK).

Basically the ACWC and the above four Korean Church Ecumenical Organizations have reached the following agreement: 1) the provision of rent free office space, utilities and partial use of facilities (e.g. copy machine, internet access) for ACWC during Revd. Lee, Moon Sook’s term, 2011-2014. and 2). ACWC will be responsible for the salary payments. The Koran Churches will also make a monthly financial contribution toward Revd. Lee, Moon Sooks living expense in Korea.

During the visit to Korea, Shu-Wen had the chance to attend the 2010 KCWU annual meeting and to send greetings on behalf of the ACWC on 19 May. During the greetings, Shu-Wen also presented our appreciations to Korean Churches that “It is ACWC’s great privilege to have such a high profiled minister like Revd. Lee, Moon Sook who will contribute to church women's ecumenical movement. The ACWC is expecting significant progress to be made in its all aspects while Rev. Lee exercises her leadership among Asian churches in cooperation with other world ecumenical bodies.”

Activities Held by ACWC-Mongolia in January and March

2010-05-28T10:58:00.008+08:00

There were two activities held by ACWC-Mongolia in January and March, 2010. At the Board Meeting in January 2010, the following six subcommittees were established:

1. Adolescent and Youth Development
2. Women Empowerment and Gender
3. Public Health
4. Business Development
5. Law and Governance
6. Christian Commitment and Christian Leadership

Within this subcommittees activity the first seminar of 2010 was held on 30 January, 2010. The seminar addressed gender and gender based violence issues in Mongolia. There were 30 participants from five churches. The seminar had two sessions. In the first session we had a guest speaker, Mrs. Altantsooj, who is a gender researcher and a graduate from Columbia University. She shared issues regarding gender and gender based violence in Mongolia. In the second session, Mrs. Munkhtuul, the National Representative of ACWC Mongolia, shared our Christian values and attitudes towards gender and gender equality. During this seminar we celebrated Enkhee’s receipt of an award from the President of Mongolia at the 20th anniversary of the formation of a democracy in that country.

Small group discussion

The seminar also celebrated Enkhee’s receipt of a medal from the President of Mongolia at the 20th anniversary of formation of a democracy in that country.

On the International Women’s Rights day in March 2010, the Women’s Council of the Mongolian Evangelical Alliance (MEA) organized “Gospel Outreach for 1000 non-Christian women” where 20 Christian churches and organizations joined. The Women’s council of MEA invited ACWC Mongolia to join this event. Four ACWC Mongolia board members actively worked with its preparation working group and successfully organized this gospel outreach.

Praise and Prayers from Nepal

2010-05-27T16:41:00.000+08:00

Dear Friends and Prayer Partners,

2009 was an extremely busy and challenging and blessed year for us. We should like to express our heartfelt thanks to all of you for your continuing prayers and support. We anticipate continued partnership during the coming days.

Praise:
● Able to achieve the objective according to our annual plan.
● Successfully accomplished the different training programmes.
● Girls able to get job and start their new life.
● Able to support and give counseling at the Young Women’s Center
● Election of new board of directors.
● God’s protection to staff and other members during travel inside and outside the country.
● Continued volunteer service from members and friends.
● Continued literacy classes.
● Young Women Crisis Center able to provide the necessary counseling and other services according to the individual needs.

Prayers:
● Wisdom and guidance to the staff to carry on day to day activities.
● The girls who have started their life in community after their difficult time.
● The girls who are staying in the Young Women Crisis Center for their career and work and recovery from the illness.
● Women’s and girls who are attending literacy class.
● Successfully district level training.
● Needed resources for the center and ongoing program.
● Full religion freedom in new constitution.
● Political stabilities in the country.
● Board, advisors and all members of NMBS (YWCA of Nepal)

Pray for Thailand

2010-05-24T13:52:00.000+08:00

2010/05/24

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:

After the Red Shirt in Thailand had had been protesting for weeks in Thailand, from News we know that more than 30 buildings were set ablaze; at least 50 people have been killed in clashes in the past several weeks and nearly 400 people injured.

We faithful pray to our Lord to keep people of Thai in His hands. Maybe it is quick to rebuild a city or a country, but the trust and understanding between people may take a long time. May our Lord mercy this land and people.

Prayer Request

2010-05-05T12:34:00.000+08:00

2010/05/01
Dear Friends

Greetings from Nepal.

Prayer is our greatest weapon and makes all things possible …

Thanks be to God and to you all for your prayer support. We have come to this stage of Federal Democratic Republic, secular state. I hope that you are aware of the recent political situation of Nepal. Unified CPN (Communist Party of Nepal) Maoist, the largest party in the constitution assembly and at present as an opposition party, is on indefinite nation wide strike from May 2nd to pressurize the current government for immediate resignation of PM Madav Kumar Nepal to make a conducive environment for the all party coalition government under the leadership of Maoist to draft new constitution and take the peace process to its logical end.

But the parties who are in the government and PM himself are not ready with what the agitating party has put forth. Thousands of Maoist cadres and supporters have come to Katmandu from different part of the country for the strike. The general publics have become the victim and peoples’ life has been paralyzed due to this situation. The foods and vegetables price have risen and country’s economy is at worst.

The dialogue for negotiations is going on between three major parties for several days but has not reached to consensus yet to bring an end to this situation all parties should leave their pride and compromise as soon as possible for the betterment of people. Please do pray for us and share this request with your friends.

Thank you and God bless.

With best regards,

Draupadi Rokaya
General Secretary
&
YWCA Family

The Article for Coming Newsletter

2010-04-16T13:24:00.000+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:
Some of you already received the current ACWC Newsletter (January –March 2010). I hope that you could enjoy this issue.
The ACWC Secretariat Office would like to invite you to contribute your ideas for the coming Newsletter (April-June 2010). The topic is for the Mother’s Day.
My Wish before and after being a mother.
The favor could be something or habits. We know that most women’s life styles are different before and after marriage, especially having children. So let us create a special issue for our Newsletter. Please share the change of your favor before and after marriage/ having children. Some of us are single or have no child. You are welcome to share the stories about your mother, grandmothers or sisters’ stories with us.
The deadline will be 20 May. If you could send some photos to me with your articles, it will be perfect.
Thank you very much for your cooperation.
Blessings,Shu-Wen

Preparation for the 14th ACWC Assembly

2010-03-18T18:40:00.024+08:00

For preparing the 14th ACWC Assembly in October 2010 in Indonesia, there were two preparatory meetings:
1) 10-13 December 2009, only the ACWC Executive Secretary flight to Indonesia.
2) 02-04 February 2010, meeting of the Executive Secretary and three ACWC Officers.

It is the first time to meet the New CCI General Secretary, Revd. Gomar Gultom, (Since 20 December 2009) on 11 Dec. 2009. Gulton fully supports the Indonesian Church Women to host the ACWC Assembly; encourages the women to increase funding for the support of ACWC; appoint a staff member of the CCI Office as the contact person between the ACWC and the CCI Women.

After first visiting the venue, Mrs.Delima hosted us a deliciously traditional Indonesian meal.

Mrs. Delima, the second from right.

The ACWC Officers met the CCI President: Revd. Dr. A. P. Yewangoe, the GAS: Revd. Gomar Gultom and the Vice-GAS: Rev. Lies Makisanti.

After the meeting, the CCI Women hosted us a great meal. We also appreciated the Mrs. Yangti. According to her schedule, she couldn’t attend the two meeting, but she still aided the meeting.

During the meeting, the ACWC President, Nareeboon celebrated her 20th Anniversary alone in Jakarta.

Donna and Shu-Wen met in Jakarta for preparing the ACWC 50th Anniversary History Book. Before the second preparation meeting in Jakarta, Donna and Shu-Wen had a 3-day meeting (29-31 Jan. 2010) for discussing the ACWC 50th Anniversary History Book.

The ACWC Officers interviewed the candidates for the New ACWC Secretary position (2011-2014) in Jakarta on 01-02 Feb. 2010.

ACWC Day Report from Philippines

2010-03-18T16:56:00.010+08:00

Church Women United of the Philippines(CWUP) had its 62nd Annual General Assembly and celebration of the 62nd Asian Church Women Conference (ACWC) Anniversary last November 28, 2009. The occasion was held at the Central United Methodist Church, 594 Kalaw Metro Manila.

The affair was attended by the different member churches and around ninety women join the celebration. Our Preacher during the Liturgy was Ms. Emma Cantor Orate, President, Board of Women’s Work, UMC, who spoke on the theme “From Generation to Generation”. Ms. Luz Marasigan gave her testimony on “Learning the Faith” and Ms. Jennifer F. Meneses on “Passing the Faith”.

Our Keynote Speaker for the assembly was Honorable Cynthia Aguilar Villar, Congresswoman of Las Pinas. She spoke about Women’s concerns and her different project to alleviate the life of women. She also mentioned about their Livelihood Program where deserving women are trained and given capital to start as small entrepreneurs.

July 15, 2009 -- Disaster Awareness Lecture and Gift Giving in Tatalon, Quezon City. The Committee is chaired by Ms. Prima Fortalleza, President, Federation of Baptist Women.

August 15, 2009 -- Seminar on Home and Family Life with Livelihood program, chaired by Ms. Guia del Rosario, President of Philippine Lutheran Women’s League.

Month of September is unforgettable because of typhoon Ondoy that caused flood to nearby Metro Manila towns and cities. Then followed by typhoon Pepeng, Ramil and Santi. All these caused damages to North and South Central Luzon hence I tried to ask calamitous aid from ACWC, ICFLC and NCCP. Through God’s help ACWC gave $1,500 and ICFLC $2,000 and NCCP gave relief packages. Thanks to the assistance through Ms. Shu Wen Chiang and Ms. Cora Tabing Reyes. May God give more blessings.

by Columba C. Eclipse, Philippines / photo by Columba C. Eclipse

Re-Uniting of Women - ACWC Day Report from Cambodia

2010-03-18T16:46:00.006+08:00

The Kampuchea Christian Council (KCC) Women Desk celebrated the 53rd Anniversary of ACWC Day with the theme “Re-Uniting of Women”. This celebration was held on November 21, 2009 at Pour Dos Church, Kampot Province with 50 women coming from different churches in Kampot Province.

Ms. Nou Kimsan, the second vice president of KCC, shared in the Bible scripture reading from Ephesians 4:3-7 to remind the women of unity. She added that we have to make peace in our family first and after that with other people but not allowing division because God wants us to preserve unity.

Ms. Prak Saravy, Women Secretary, addressed the participants about the history of ACWC and some other program which has been important to 19 member countries including Cambodia as one of the members, so we have received benefit from ACWC in the following ways:

1.Scholarships for three students (supported by ACWC)
2.Vocational Training (weaving and sewing supported by ACWC)
3.Literacy (supported by FLC)
4.Kindergarten (supported by PCT)
5.Administration (supported by ACWC & PCT)
6.Health Education which will be held every third week in 2010 (supported by ACWC)

Ms. Arun Reksmey, Acting General Secretary, explained that the meaning of re-unity is like the whole world which there is unity of countries within the five continents as Europe, America, Africa, Oceania, and Asia. In Asia, there are many countries which include Cambodia. So women in Asia come together and are united in one women’s conference called ACWC. ACWC was established for communication and sharing about problems in their own countries and also to join in prayer for each country and especially respond to the program development projects which relate to improvement of living standard which some of you here also received support. Therefore, we came from different churches and different places, we need to preserve the unity among the churches by praying for one another, and have patience and forbearance with each other with love, not division.

During the entire day of the meetings, the participants were very excited to receive these reports, and they suggested having more activities from KCCWD to assist in developing members in their churches.

Thank you very much for the many projects that ACWC supports for us. May God bless you all and be successful in your mission.

Phnom Penh January 16, 2010

by Prak Saravy/Van Arun Rasmey, Cambodia

Remaining In Christ Everyday - ACWC Day Report from Malaysia

2010-03-18T16:32:00.005+08:00

Malaysia held the ACWC service on 7 November 2009 at the Syrian Orthodox Church, Kuala Lumpur. They used rice (in many colours) as a symbol to represent the different ethnic groups of their country with the acronym (Remaining In Christ Everyday). The following testimony was presented for the theme "From Generation to Generation".

The Testimony
Lianawati is an Indonesian who worked in Malaysia since 1996 and this is her story.

Lianawati’s paternal grandparents migrated from China and they practiced Taoism. In 1965, there was a law passed in Indonesia that everyone must have a religion. Taoism was not acknowledged as a religion. So her grandparents joined the Catholic Church. Later her father married a local, but according to Islamic rites. Her grandmother and her aunties from her father’s side all went to church. Lianawati’s mother did not practice her religion. There were many protests from her mother’s family. Lianawati’s family stayed with her paternal grandparents. Like her grandfather, her father had more than one wife, and Lianawati’s mother was the second wife. Later her family separated from the main family but her grandmother went to stay with her family.

Lianawati’s exposure and encounter with God was through her grandmother. She observed her grandmother get up early every morning to sing hymns, read the Bible and pray. Lianawati attended a Christian school. Lianwati and her siblings also attended Sunday school but with much reluctance. She said she used to hide so that she need not go to Sunday school. Gradually her grandmother’s character and personality began to have a great impact and influence on her. Lianawati became very close to her. Her grandmother was a business woman. She remembers her grandmother as a gentle, soft spoken, loving woman and very devoted to God. She gave unconditional and sacrificial love not asking anything in return. She taught Lianawati moral values.

Lianawati was a Sunday school teacher when she was in High School. After high school, she wanted to further her studies but because of financial constrain she could not pursue her studies. It was then that she decided that she will work and save the money for her studies. She came to Malaysia in 1996 to work. She was working in a factory in Ipoh. She experienced cultural shock when she arrived, the spoken Malay language was different from Indonesian. She stayed in a Christian hostel and joined the cell group and attended Church. It was while she was in Ipoh that she had a special encounter with the Holy Spirit and decided to dedicate her life to Christ.

After her contract ended Lianawati went back home and later came to work in Johor. In 2000 she had a calling from God to do ministry work. She returned home and wanted to enroll into the Bible school in Jakarta but it did not take place. In 2004 she returned to Ipoh to work but in 2006 she was called for mission training in Batang. She was subsequently asked to do ministry work among the Indonesian migrants in Kuala Trengganu and Klang. She was pastoring in a church in Sg.Way in 2007 when her mother came to stay with her. Her mother stayed with her for one month and Lianawati witnessed to her mother.

After a few months of her mother’s return to Indonesia one day she called Lianawati and told her that she has accepted Jesus Christ as her saviour and requested to be baptized. Lianawati also has witnessed to her brother-in-law and sister-in-law who have also accepted Christ.

Lianawati joined the Malaysia Bible Seminary in Klang and is currently pursuing her theological studies. She still travels to Kuala Trengganu on the weekends and is active in the Klang area.

by Shakuntala Abraham, Malaysia

The Winifred Kiek Scholarship Application

2010-03-01T15:18:00.006+08:00

My dear ACWC sisters:
Here is a good new about the scholarship application.
Our Australia member: Australia Church Women Inc. opens the 2011 Winifred Kiek Scholarship application to the Asian countries. The details and form are ate\ached with this mail. Please distribute the information to your people and encourage them to apply it. Please be aware that the deadline will be 31 May 2010.
May thanks to our Australian sisters and praise to our Lord.

Circle of Prayer XX

2010-03-01T13:22:00.006+08:00

The Circle of Prayer Vol. XX’s suggested theme is drawn from the theme of the 29th ICFLC Annual Meeting held at Nairobi on October 17-25, 2009, which was “Jesus Amongst Us: pray and act for change.” Jesus with us empowers us and enables us to pray and act for justice, peace and reconciliation.

a. Suggested theme of the Circle of Prayer Vol. XX is: “Pray and Act for Change”

b. Introduction to the theme to be written by Rev. Dr. ‘Asinate Samate

c. Suggested Texts:
O.T. 1 Samuel 25:4-44 & Numbers 27: 1-7
N.T. John 20: 1-23 & John 4: 7-26

d. Suggested Guidelines:
1. The typewritten meditation is around 300-400 words.
2. Deadline for sending the meditation to ICFLC office icflcph@gmail.com> is May 30, 2010.
3. Please send by email a scanned copy of the writer’s ID picture, 2-3 sentences about the writer, her email and postal addresses along with the article.
4. That the meditation material shares women’s story/experience, biblical reflection and prayer from the respective country/region.
5. Each ICFLC member may facilitate at least 2-4 contributions coming from different countries of her region.
6. Suggested Format:
Title
Biblical Text
Meditation
Prayer

PS: Elisabeth Delmonte of Uruguay wrote saying, “As I listen to the universal concerns about the climate change, I would suggest that the prayers and meditations should center on our environmental responsibility.”

The 14th Quadrennial General Assembly of Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC

2010-01-12T11:44:00.012+08:00

The 14th Quadrennial General Assembly
of Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC
Asian Women Moving Forward:
Non-Violent World/ New Earth/ Life in its Fullness
15-20 October, 2010,

Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort, Bogor, Indonesia

General Information

Theme: Asian Women Moving Forward: Non-Violent World/ New Earth/ Life in its Fullness

Date and Venue:
Date of arrival: 15 Oct. 2010
Date of departure: 20 Oct. 2010
The dates of ACWC Executive Committee, ACWC General Committee, Young Women’s Forum and the ICFLC meetings as follow:

Meeting / Meeting Date / Arrival/ Departure / Venue
ACWC Ex. Co. Meeting / 11-13 Oct. / Arrival:11 Oct. / Venue I: Pondok Remaja PGI
ACWC Gen. Co. Meeting / 13-14 Oct./ Arrival:13 Oct. / Venue II:Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort
Young Women’s Forum / 15 Oct. / Arrival: 14 Oct. / Venue II:Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort
ACWC/ICFLC has their own Officers’Meeting / 15 Oct. / ICFLC Officers arrival: 14 Oct. / Venue II:Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort
ACWC Assembly / 15-20 Oct. / Arrival: 15 Oct. Church Visitation:17 Oct. Departure: 20 Oct. / Venue II: Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort
ICFLC Meeting / 20-22 Oct. / Community: 23 Oct. integration, Departure: 24 Oct. / Venue I: Pondok Remaja PGI

Venue I: Pondok Remaja PGI
Address: Jln. Raya Puncak Km. 78 Cipayung Bogor
Tel: 62 - 251 8255124
Email: pondokremaja_pgi@yahoo.co.id
Website: www.pondokremajapgi.multiply.com

Venue II: Kinasih Conference, Outbound & Resort
Address: Jl. Raya Sukabumi Km. 17, Caringin – Bogor 16730
Tel.: 61-251-8222111, Direct: 61-251-8220608
Fax: 61-251-8220813
Website: http://www.thekinasihresort.com

Host Organization: Communion of Churches in Indonesia (CCI)

Host Contact Person:
Name: Mr. Toesmoyo
Address: Communion of Churches in Indonesia
Jl. Salemba Raya No. 10, Jakarta 10340 - INDONESIA
Tel: +62.21.315.0451; 315.0455; 390.8120
Fax : +62.21.315.0457
Mobile: 081219554563
Email: pgi@bit.net.id or pgi_jakarta@hotmail.com or acwc_toesmoyo@yahoo.com

Please cc to Rev. Rosmalia Barus
Name: Rev. Rosmalia Barus (The ACWC Indonesia National Representative)
Email: rosmalia_barus@yahoo.com

ACWC Secretariat Office
Name: Shu-Wen Chiang,
Address: 3, Lane 269, Roosevelt Road, Sec. 3, Taipei, 106 TAIWAN
Tel: 886-2-2366-0775
Fax: 886-2-2369-9274
Email: acwc@seed.net.tw
Website: http://acwc.blogspot.com

2009 Christmas Greetings

2009-12-23T11:51:00.001+08:00

My dear ACWc’s friends:
Greetings in grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a God-blessed 2010.
For me, 2009 seems to pass faster than any other year. This is not just a greetings for Christmas but also a kind of update and prayer request for the ministry of the ACWC:
We are preparing for the 14th ACWC Assembly. It will be special because we will have the Young Women’s Forum before the Assembly meeting. This new program is for the continuation of ACWC from generation to generation. We are to produce a history book for the celebration of the ACWC Anniversary History. Time is limited but we don’t seem to have enough material for work on. We hope that we can present a good history book for the ACWC. Please remember us in your prayers.
Some member countries had civil war and/or hit by natural disasters in this year. We helped them with ACWC Emergency Fund. We are moved to know that other ACWC groups showed support and prayers for them.
By the way, I will finish my second term by the end of 2010. The ACWC is in the process of looking for a new Executive Secretary. It is important for the ACWC and women ministry in Asia. Please pray that our Lord will provide a proper person for this position.
Finally, I would like to ask you join me in prayer:
Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Child of God. Please come into my life and heart and be my Lord and Savior. I want to serve you always.
Amen.
Shu-Wen Chiang,
Executive Secretary, ACWC

The Evaluation Report of the WEAVE Project

2009-12-04T13:33:00.006+08:00

The small jet plane was drawing closer to Timor-Leste, and the mountains began to rise up and come into focus before me as I looked out of the small passenger window. Lush, green jungle seemed to cover every inch of the approaching mountains and then suddenly the plane began to descend, and the mountains were now below me as the pilot directed the plane into a broad sweep of the distant ocean. We seemed to travel in a huge circle over the deep blue sea before once again the mountains around Dili came into view.

Far below us could be seen a thin strip of civilisation close to the beachfront. The pilot straightened up his approach and his aircraft descended rapidly to a small runway that shared facilities with the International Stabilisation Force.

Welcome signs and directions seemed to line the runway as passengers disembarked from the aircraft and made their way across the tarmac to the modest immigration and customs building. I had arrived in Timor-Leste and Rev. Albino de Costa, General Secretary of the IPTL (Igréja Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e -- The Protestant Church in East Timor), was waiting for me as I exited customs.

The purpose of my visit was to be the ACWC link to the CCA (Christian Conference of Asia) and the IPTL during the evaluation of the WEAVE Project. WEAVE had almost finished its two-year term and I was to accompany the evaluator, Mr. Leo Bashyam, engaged by the CCA to ascertain the project’s success in training, supporting and empowering women for leadership in the church. I was to speak with women from the IPTL who were being equipped by the WEAVE programmes, and then report my observations of WEAVE to Leo.

As we travelled the short distance to my accommodation, I was surprised that wherever I looked there were the ruins of conflict. I found it difficult to comprehend that such widespread devastation was still so visible. It was nearly ten years after the Indonesian military and local militia gangs had responded brutally to the people of Timor-Leste when they voted for independence from Indonesia. Added to that initial destruction was the more recent effects of the civil war in 2006.

At the end of my short three-day stay I came to understand that Timor-Leste was impoverished and there had been little money for rebuilding people’s lives never alone buildings. However, change and redevelopment was slowly on its way and a few very large billboards, that advertised multi-storey proposals in the city centre, were evidence of the confidence that investors have in the future of Timor-Leste.

As I looked at the results of war that this small nation had experienced, I was constantly reminded of the worth of a programme such as the WEAVE Project, and its aim to equip women leaders living in and with the results of conflict in their region. My interest was growing in how the local women were participating in this ecumenical project and what steps had been made to equip them as leaders, particularly in a patriarchal and fractured society.

My first opportunity to meet with the Christian women of Timor-Leste and to see the benefits of the WEAVE Project came later that day at a training seminar organised by Dominica Faurillo. Dominica is the CCA WEAVE accompanier who ‘walks with the women’ as she helps to equip them for leadership.

Nearly thirty women had gathered from the various districts for a training seminar on HIV /AIDS. The facilitators of this course were Dr Erlinda Senturias, Consultant on HIV and AIDS / CCA and Liza Lamis, Communications Consultant / CCA. There was opportunity to interview the local women and many said they were grateful for the seminar. They also remarked they would be able to use their training and pass on this knowledge to women in their district.

Throughout my brief stay in Dili I was given more opportunities to speak with the women of the IPTL. I was also fortunate to interview a woman NGO manager from the Philippines who endorsed the WEAVE Project. This lady had also kindly offered her support to Dominica in meeting the WEAVE objectives.

Some achievements of WEAVE in Timor-Leste
Dominica had a plan of action as she visited women and advised and taught them about women’s issues and rights as recorded in Scripture. Bible study for women was a priority and the aim was to conduct this activity whenever the women met for training. This women’s perspective was a revelation for many of her listeners and it has provided them with motivation to become more involved in the church.

The number of women attending local churches has also increased after Dominica visited their region.

Women’s committees have been formed and they have begun to network and visit one another. The local women have begun to recognise that as they cooperate with one another they can be agents of change in their communities.

Women leaders are beginning to receive invitations to participate in other types of training e.g. MYOB financial training.

Sunday School has been introduced and the training of Sunday School leaders is taking place with the aim of developing second-generation leaders.

The project and its objectives have been accepted and commended by the IPTL. Training has gradually been implemented as the benefits of equipping and empowering women for leadership has been recognised. Sustainability of the accomplishments when the WEAVE project concludes has been noted by the IPTL leadership as a priority issue.

Conclusion
WEAVE is giving the women a vision for the future and an understanding of the role of women in the church. The local women of the IPTL expressed their thanks for the support they have received and the leadership vision that has been imparted to them.

However, the women expressed concern about the need for a further period of accompaniment as they develop their leadership skills and build on their achievements. They look forward to the day when local Christian women can take on the role of empowering and accompanying other women to fill leadership positions in the church.

Thank you
My sincere thanks to Rev. Moises Antonio da Silva, Moderator of IPTL; Rev. Albino de Costa, General Secretary of IPTL; Rev. Juliana Temparaja, Vice Secretary of IPTL Synod; Dominica Faurillo, CCA WEAVE accompanier; Leocadia’s Jesus, local women’s leader; and Nina Naoyan, WSCF-AP-FIM intern from Indonesia, for their gracious hospitality and openness in sharing their views on the success of the WEAVE Project in Timor-Leste.
Nina Naoyan, WSCF-AP-FIM intern, introduces visitors to the seminar participants. Rev. Albino de Costa, General Secretary of IPTL, in the foreground.

Liturgy for Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) Day. 2010

2009-11-18T11:11:00.008+08:00

Theme:Asian Women Moving Forward; Non-Violent World; New Earth; Life in Its Fullness
ACWC Day: The third Sunday in November in each year

Procession of participants carrying the Bible, ACWC Banner and some symbols to symbolize your country (Example: Sprigs of greenery for New Zealand) and placed on or near the altar according to local custom.

Call to Worship
Leader: Micah 6:8 (Suggest to use the New Revised Version for the basic reading)

Leader: We send greetings from Aotearoa New Zealand, the land of the Long White Cloud, and join with our nineteen member countries of the Asian Church Women’s Conference to praise God and give thanks for the gift of Christian Faith which we have received.
We uphold before God, the theme of this Service: Asian Women Moving Forward, Non-Violent World; New Earth; Life in its Fullness.
We praise God for the beauty of the earth: the mountains, the rivers, the sea and the freedom we all have to roam at will. We marvel at the sunrise, sunset and gaze at the Southern Cross Constellation high in our clear night sky.
We ask for the wisdom to care for our country and our people of many nations, Maori and Pakeha who have come to live here; and to share it with others.
Let us pray earnestly today and in the future for the courage to work for the ideals of our theme so that God’s Creation in the fullest sense of human, animal and all nature will be respected.
Let us greet one another as we often do in New Zealand....Haere Mai, Nau Mai....... welcome, welcome.

Hymn: We Are Many, We Are One
We are many, we are one,
and the work of Christ is done
when we learn to live in true community,
as the stars that fill the night ,
as a flock of birds in flight,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine;
as the branches of a tree,
as the waves upon the sea,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine.

All division is made whole
when we honour every soul,
find the life of God in every you and me
as the fingers of a hand,
as the grains that form the sand,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine
as the threads upon the loom,
as a field of flowers in bloom,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine.

We will join creation’s song
make a world where all belong,
build as one in peace and loving harmony,
as the voices of a choir,
as the flames within a fire,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine;
as the snowflakes in the snow,
as the colours of a bow,
as the cluster of the grapes upon the vine.

Words: Colin Gibson & Music: Colin Gibson

Benedict Aotearoa
Leader: O give thanks to our God who is good:
All: whose love endures forever.
Leader: You sun and moon, you stars of the southern sky:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise
Leader: Sunrise and sunset, night and day:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: All mountains and valleys, grassland and scree,
glacier, avalanche, mist and snow:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: You kauri and pine, rata and kowhai, mosses and ferns:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: Dolphins and kahawai, sealion and crab,
coral, anemone, pipi and shrimp:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: Rabbits and cattle, moths and dogs
kiwi and sparrow and tui and hawk:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: You Maori and Pakeha, women and men,
all who inhabit the long white cloud:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.
Leader: All you saints and martyrs of the South Pacific:
All: give to our God your thanks and praise.

Explanation:
Maori ~ people of our land
Pakeha ~ non Maori person
rata & kowhai ~ flora
kahawai ~ fish
pipi ~ fish
tui ~ bird

Prayer of Confession
Leader: Loving and merciful God
We come before you, conscious of how often we disappoint you. We want to be like you, to follow you in everything we do, but we get distracted by worldly things.
All: Forgive us and have mercy.
Leader: The world is full of distractions and we often turn away from those things that make us feel uncomfortable. Open our eyes to the needs of people around us and help us to be ready with a kind word of encouragement and practical service.
All: Forgive us and have mercy.
Leader: Help us to recognise our own prejudices and realise the discrimination and exclusion that damages society. Banish all contempt and self righteousness in us and grant us the humility you showed in your Son Jesus.
All: Forgive us and have mercy.
Leader: God of compassion, help us to understand that having material things is not enough. Forgive our greed, our neglect of the environment and help us all to live in your grace and aroha (Maori for love).
May we become a truly loving and healing community.
All: In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Bible Readings (Suggest to use the New Revised Version for the basic reading)
Isaiah 55: 6-12
Psalm 46
John 4: 4-29
Romans 15: 1-13

Hymn: Tama Ngakau Marie (In Maori)
Tama ngakau marie,
Tama a t’Atua,
tenei tonu matou
Arohaina mai

Murua ra nga hara:
Wetekina mai
Tenei here kino
Whakaruru nei

Takahia ki raro,
Tau e kino ai;
Kei pa kaha tonu
Ko nga mahi he

Homai he aroha
Mou i mate nei
Tenei ra, e Ihu,
Takina e koe;

Tenei arahina
A tutuki noa:
Puta i te pouri,
Whiwhi hari nui

Tama ngakau marie,
Tama a t’Atua,
Tenei tonu matau,
Arohaina mai. Amine

Words:Traditional Maori & Music:Traditional Maori

Address

Hymn: Let Justice Roll Down

Refrain:
Let justice roll down like a river,
let justice roll down like a sea
let justice roll down like a river
let justice begin with me.

Justice for all who are hungry
crying to God to be fed
left in a world of abundance
to beg for a morsel of bread

Refrain

Justice for those who are homeless
victims of warfare or need
trapped on the borders of no-where
lost in the canyons of greed

Refrain

Justice for all who are powerless
yearning for freedom in vain
plundered, and robbed of their birthright
silently bearing their pain

Refrain

Words: Colin Gibson & Music: Colin Gibson

Collection of Offerings
Lord’s Prayer: to be prayed in your own language.

Prayer for our ACWC Prayer Partner Country
We ask God’s blessing on our Prayer Partner. May the work among our members and their families be fruitful and supportive of their Christian lives. May the Lord Jesus raise their spirit and increase their love for Him and make them strong in diversity and gentle in their relationships with friends and family. May the Lord, the great shepherd of His flock enfold them in His arms.

ACWC Prayer
O Loving Creator, we present ourselves in your divine presence to thank you for all the bountiful gifts of life. We are especially grateful for the ACWC which binds us together in love and supporting around the Asian area. Free us from all doubts and prejudices, we pray. Inspire us to live in solidarity with humankind that we may know the joy of giving and receiving.

Dear God accept our prayers. Let us honour your creation with love as shown through the life and resurrection of your Son Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Creed: We say together in faith
All: Holy, holy, holy,
is the Lord God almighty,
who was, and is, and is to come.
Leader: We believe in God the Father,
who created all things:
All: for by his will they were created
and have their being.
Leader: We believe in God the Son,
who was slain:
All: for with his blood,
he purchased us for God,
from every tribe and language,
from every people and nation.
Leader: We believe in God the Holy Spirit:
All: the Spirit and the Bride say “Come!”
Even so, Come Lord Jesus! AMEN.

Reading: Revelation 22:1-5 (Suggest to use the New Revised Version for the basic reading)

Prayer of Intercession
Leader: Dear Lord God, we bring the needs of others to you now. The sounds of violence and anger are in many places around us. The ground is wounded by the greed and demands of people. In deep sorrow, our sisters and brothers of many lands are suffering. We call on you to send the gentle rains of your mercy where they are most needed. Only you can bring us your gift of peace.
Response: Oh Lord, hear our prayer for peace.
Leader: Dear Father, we know that all our leaders in the Church, in our communities, and in our countries need to be wise. Many problems are world-wide and need trust between nations. Send your blessing of wisdom we pray, on those who have responsibility. Show our leaders the right choices and the right way forward. Only you can bring us the gift of wisdom.
Response: Oh Lord, hear our prayer for wisdom.
Leader: Dear Lord Jesus, there is great illness in the world today. Many are suffering from HIV- AIDS; from serious epidemics of influenza and from local disease. Just as you walked among the sick and touched them with your hands, we ask you today to bring wholeness to your faithful people. Only you can bring the gift of healing.
Response: Oh Lord, hear our prayer for healing.
Leader: Dear Holy Spirit, there is darkness in the world; the cloud of disbelief and the worship of materialism. Many people are filled with despair, and have lost hope in the future. Shine through your word we pray, so that the true light and the true love of God can shower on the shadows of evil in our lands. Only you can win the spiritual battles with your gift of blessing.
Response: Oh Lord, hear this prayer for blessing. Use us to carry your love and compassion we pray, through the power of your name; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Hymn: Where Mountains Rise to Open Skies
Where mountains rise to open skies
your name, O God, is echoed far,
from island beach to kauri’s reach,
in water’s light, in lake and star

Your people’s heart, your people’s part
be in our caring for this land,
for faith to flower, for aroha
to let each other’s mana stand.

From broken word, from conflict stirred,
from lack of vision, set us free
to see the line of your design,
to feel creation’s energy.

Your love be known, compassion shown,
that every child have equal scope:
in justice done, in trust begun
shall be our heritage and hope.

Where mountains rise to open skies
your way of peace distil the air,
your spirit bind all humankind,
one covenant of life to share!

Words: Shirley Erena Murray & Music: Vernon Griffiths

Explanation: aroha–Maori word for “all-embracing love” mana - Maori for “dignity,” “prestige.”

Prayer of Commission
All: Together we seek life in its fullness, a non-violent world where we can live in relationship with all people.
Together may we live in a relationship with all creatures, all living things and all of nature where we are not the sole beneficiaries of the earth’s resources.
Together may we live in relationships to God so that our identity and wellbeing is grounded in the knowledge that God is Love.
Leader: Go now in Peace; Moving Forward in God’s Love.

Acknowledgements:
The National Committee Church Women United Aotearoa New Zealand acknowledges with gratitude the following copyright permission:
Copyright has been approved as follows:
Benedict Aotearoa - ”The Anglican Church in Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia – Te Hahi Mihinare ki Aotearoa ki Nui Tireni, ki nga Moutere o te Moana Nui a Kiwa.”
Tama ngakau marie - “Te Pihopatanga o Aotearoa gives its approval for A New Zealand Prayer Book including Hymn number 80 Tama ngakau marie”
“Where mountains rise to open skies” Shirley Erena Murray MNZM FRSCMOriginal title “Hymn for Waitangi Day” copyright held New Zealand, Australia and Asia. “We are many we are one,” and “ Let Justice roll down” Colin Gibson

* This order of worship was prepared by the National Committee Church Women United Aotearoa - New Zealand

The Ondoy That Hit Philippines

2009-11-16T14:59:00.002+08:00

The ACWC Secretariat Office received a letter of thanks from Columba C. Eclipse, the ACWC Philippines national representative as follows:

September 26 was very memorable date not only for me but most the Filipino people in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. Rain poured early morning of Saturday and I was busy preparing for our breakfast, baon for lunch then by nine o’clock proceeded to our office in Lemon Square bldg along EDSA. At around ten o’clock the maid of my youngest daughter called up that water is getting inside our houses. She immediately went home only no more buses or jeepneys at that time because almost all the streets going to our place were all under water. She walked to almost waist level of water. After lunch our commercial building was already flooded up to the 1st floor. Luckily we are on the 2nd floor. Lights went off and I could no longer go home because water is already above waist level. News says that, Marikina, Cainta, Malabon, Laguna and other nearby cities and municipalities are all merged under water. People clamoring for help because plenty are up the roof of their houses waiting for helicopter to pick them up. Some were transferred to evacuation centers, mostly in schools.
The following Monday, Ms. Prima Formileza from Novaliches Quezon City texted me asking for help but since I was busy cleaning and drying the wet materials in our house, I didn’t immediately answer her. It was only when Ms. Shu-Wen called me up in my cellphone asking how we are doing. That was the only time I realized that I have a duty as President of the CWUP to help and monitor our members and friends.
Pepeng followed a week after and made the situation worst. Northern, Central Luzon were stricken and were all under water for a week. At this time, I wrote Cora T. Reyes, the secretary of the Fellowship of the Least Coin to please reconsider giving us financial help to assist fellow members.
This must be a wake up call to all of us Filipinos to conserve our environment and to dispose properly our waste. A time to reconsider whether we will allow our people to construct their houses in the riverbanks, esteros and even under the bridges.
Then came 2 more typhoons that hit North Luzon again. With all of these tragedies, we from the Church Women United of the Philippines thru the help of Asia Church Women Conference and the Fellowship of the Least Coin are thankful to God for He is still so kind. We thank all those member of ACWC who have sent their letter of concerns and prayers.With all the help from everywhere and through relentless efforts to extend to our countrymen who are in need, the Philippines can battle these unlikely events and can get up as one nation by God’s grace.

The Updates of the ACWC Day

2009-11-12T15:22:00.000+08:00

The ACWC service was held on Oct. 24 in Singapore to promote the ACWC. During the Service, the ministry and endeavors of the ACWC and the ACWC quarterly publication was introduced to as many women as possible, in particular the younger ones in Singapore.

Sri Lanka will be having their service on 20 November.

Mongolia and Indonesia also will have the service on 15 November.

Thailand is also preparing it.

Bangladesh did not observed the ACWC Day in November, 2008 for their political situation. This is only happened in Dhaka. So Bangladesh observed that day on 20 February, 2009 and other sisters from different part of Bangladesh observed ACWC Day 2008 at November, 2008. This year Bangladesh could observe ACWC Day 2009 in November.

The KCC- Women's Desk in Cambodia informed the ACWC Office that Cambodia will have 50 participants to observe the ACWC Day on 21 November 21, 2009 in Kampot Province.

Japan had the ACWC Day service in two places this year as usual. The one was in Tokyo on 30 October and the other was on 11 November in Kansai. Both places were expected over 400 participants.

In New Zealand, the ACWC and the FLC Ingathering Service was held on at 10:00 AM, 06 November 2009, Knox Presbyterian Church. It was prepared by the National Executive of Church Women Australia. The Revd. Joohong Kim was the speaker. A warm welcome is extended to attend this Service and morning tea to follow, from the members of the National Committee Church Women United Aotearoa-New Zealand.

Have Meeting on October 17-24, 2009 in Kenya

2009-10-13T14:54:00.000+08:00

The ACWC President, Nareeboon Rachkeeree/ Vice President & Honor Treasurer, Ms. Pauline Yates/ Ex. Sec. Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang will attend the 29th Annual Meeting of the International Committee for the Fellowship of Least Coin (ICFLC) on October 17-24, 2009, Nairobi, Kenya. All of us will leave for Kenya on 16 October and arrive in our own country on 25 October.
Here is an announcement from the ACWC President: We don’t know the situation of communication in Kenya. During the meeting session, if our members have any emergency matter, the President requests the Assembly Secretary, Capt. Donna Bryan to take care of the matter.

Pray for Philippines

2009-09-30T13:13:00.001+08:00

The ACWC Secretariat Office sends the concern, prayers and support to you and our Philippines members.
From News people know that Typhoon Ondoy battered Metro Manila and 25 provinces on last Saturday 26 September 2009. The National Disaster Coordinating Council put the death toll at 240. The disaster was the worst the capital had experienced in nearly half a century. Typhoon also poured a month’s worth of rain onto Manila in just 12 hours. More than 300,000 of those affected are now housed in roughly 200 evacuation centers.
The ACWC Secretariat Office sends this mail to all ACWC members as a prayer request for the Philippines. The Emergency Fund will release to our Filipino members as soon as we can.

Between You and Me

2009-09-24T10:50:00.002+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:

Greetings from the ACWC Secretariat Office.
ACWC July-September 2009 Newsletter is ready which will be sent out to all of next Thursday.

To the people, English is not their first language so it is difficult to identify the difference of various prepositions and how to use them properly. For example, sometimes I am confused about “between” and “among”. When I mentioned the member countries, my proofreader always suggests that I use “between”.

I like the term of “between”--God is our bridge to link us together; sometimes I or other members are our channel to link the ACWC as a big family, so we can share and support each other in different situations. From the column of “Our Concerns”, the Christians’ situation in Pakistan is worse who are attacked by others. For Taiwan, the unexpected disasters, which were caused by Morakot Typhoon on 08 August were strongly and deeply struck eastern and southern Taiwan. Our sisters' and brothers’ sufferings were already confirmed by your prayers and support.

From the session of “Mission, Program and Project” you can read many reports about the ACWC’s work during these months. In Cambodia, we strengthen the structure of the Women-Desk of the KCC to promote the programs for women, youth and children. In Mongolia, the ACWC, the ICFLC and the ACWC-Japan worked together to accompany our Mongolian members to develop the ACWC and promote the FLC prayer movement in Mongolia. In East Timor, the ACWC was invited by the CCA to evaluate the gender issue in this new country. The National Federation of Kyodan Women’s Societies (NFKWS ) shared their celebration of their 40th Anniversary National Assembly in Japan with us.

Here is another reminder: it is time for ACWC Day. Basically, the ACWC Day is on the third Sunday of November, but member countries could modify the date to fit the different situations in your country. The Liturgy for 2009 is presented in the Newsletter. Please say thank you to our Australian sisters for their hard work to design it.

May our Lord lead us to be a sisterhood and be tied together for missions.

Shu-Wen Chiang

Australia Church Women, ACW National Conference Will Be Held on 20-24 September 2009, Canberra.

2009-09-21T10:29:00.001+08:00

NFKWS Chairperson Visited Taiwan

2009-08-26T10:33:00.004+08:00

The National Federation of Kyodan Women’s Societies (NFKWS) Chairperson Michiko Narimatsu and member Kimiko Ibaraki were invited by the Women’s Ministry of the PCT to visit Taiwan on 11-14 August 2009. The ACWC Executive Secretary Shu-Wen Chiang hosted a day long trip and dinner with Rev. and Mrs. C.S. Yang at the Sheraton, Taipei on 13 August.

The former ACWC Treasurer Rev. Susan Chung (1994-1998) took them to visit Mackay Memorial Hospital on 14 August.

From left to right: Ms. Kimiko Ibaraki, Rev. Susan Chung, Shu-Wen and Ms. Michiko Narimatsu.

MCC General Secretary and President Visited Taiwan

2009-08-26T10:30:00.001+08:00

From left to right: Rev. Hu Hong-Chi (Program Secretary of the Research and Development Center, Ecumenical & International Committee, Information Center of PCT), Saw Shwe Lin, Rev. K D Tu Lum, Shu-Wen and Yu-Wen (the ACWC part-time staff)

The Myanmar Council of Churches (MCC) General Secretary Mr. Saw Shwe Lin and President Rev. K D Tu Lum visited the ACWC Taipei Office and handed over the report of Nargis to Shu-Wen on 4 August 2009.

Praying from Taiwan--Typhoon and Tropical Storm Morakot

2009-08-14T18:10:00.001+08:00

Following news reports in the international media the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) received several messages from overseas concerning the typhoon and tropical storm Morakot that struck Taiwan the weekend 7-10 August 2009.

Please know the PCT is very grateful for your expressions of concern and in turn wish to give you a brief update. Basically the typhoon itself proved to be quite minimal compared to what Taiwan normally experiences, and it was soon downgraded to a tropical storm but torrential rains came in its wake Saturday and Sunday.

The initial reports and investigations indicate the South of the country incurred most damage, in particular Taitung and Pingtung counties. As we know some areas had their equivalent of one year rainfall in two days and the worst flooding recorded in 50 years in Taiwan.

At the present time, under such critical conditions and until the water level decreases, it is very difficult to fully assess the true and total picture as to extent of loss of life, or damage to the land and property. Broken roads and collapsed bridges not to mention electricity cuts and telephone lines damaged are hampering communication and the assessment process. From what PCT staff have witnessed and based on the media reports there are bound to be villages swept away. It is really devastating - the clean up will be horrendous and it will be necessary to monitor and control any infections that could arise from dirty water, debris, dead animals and so on.

The PCT General Assembly is already active and involved in the national disaster response relief and rescue work doing their part as best as they can. We are coordinating with our numerous Presbyteries setting up relief centers, phone help lines, dropping stations for donations in kind and money. Some of you have expressed concern for PCT churches, again, it is premature to evaluate the loss of lives or the extent of damage to our church members’ homes and church property but as PCT local congregations are in many communities all over Taiwan this is inevitable. Information will be released in time.

On behalf of the PCT and the people of Taiwan we express our deep appreciation for your concern and ask that you hold the victims of this major disaster in your prayers as well as those involved in the daunting task of rescue and relief in the weeks to come.

Rev. Lin Tsung-Jeng (Leonard)
PCT Moderator, 54th General Assembly

Rev. Chang Te-Chien (Andrew)
PCT General Secretary

3, Lane 269, Roosevelt Rd. Sec. 3 Taipei 10647 TAIWAN
Fax: + (886) 2-2362-8096 E-mail: gs@mail.pct.org.tw

The Prayer request from Pakistan

2009-08-14T18:08:00.000+08:00

My dear ACWC sisters:

Greetings.

Our Pakistan sisters are quiet for a while. Today the ACWC Secretariat Office received a prayer request from Ms, Neelam Ernest, the ACWC Pakistan national Representative as following:

In this time of disaster on behalf of Pakistani Christian Community I wish to share the burden with Taiwan sisters of going through turbulence, disaster pain & Christian persecution as it is always in Pakistan. For the third time in a month villages & Churches were burnt all Christian houses people burnt alive for blasphemy as they say. This time just last week almost 50 houses burnt in Gojra Village . Earlier in another village known as Kasur. People are scared & destitute. It is painful but a great testimony as well as the community dares to fight back & raise voice against those who create the whole scenario. May God prepare us all to stand firm as we go through this difficult time.

Kindly request all ACWC sisters to pray for Pakistani Christian Community as we all stand in solidarity shoulder to shoulder to support one another in Jesus Christ.

Neelam Ernest

Visit East Timor on 11-15 August 2009

2009-08-05T11:43:00.000+08:00

Since the Church Conference of Asia, CCA and the ACWC cooperated for the “Women’s Ecumenical Accompaniment for Vision and Empowerment WEAVE” in 2005 for Cambodia, it is a good model for two Ecumenical Organizations to work together on any Women’s issue. In 2007, the CCA invited the ACWC again to promote WEAVE in East Timor. Then, Ms. Corazon Tabing-Reyes, Joint Executive Secretary, EGY/ Ms. Chiang Shu-Wen, Executive Secretary, ACWC/ Ms. Nina Nayoan, WSCF-AP- FIM intern at Timor Leste where the team to visit East Timor on April 13-19, 2007 (For Details see the ACWC April-June 2007 Newsletter).

When the CCA had the Round Table Meeting with Global Partners on 10 July 2009, Ms. Moumita Biswas raised the East Timor issue at the meeting. The partners from U.S.A and Canada also shared that they supported it and are keen in regarding help to the CCA review process of the accompanying Program.

Therefore there is a revaluation team to visit East Timor from 11 August 2009.

The CCA- EGY requests the solidarity of ACWC again in this process – so that in future we can work in partnership to support women and youth leadership development in East Timor. Ms. Moumita Biswas requests one of ACWC member to join them in this Endeavour.

After the discussion between the ACWC Officers, we decided that Captain Donna Bryan (Australia) be the ACWC Representative for the visitation.

In the beginning when the CCA asked the ACWC to work together with the CCA to develop the Church Women’s mission in East Timor, the former ACWC Ex. Co. already thought to ask the Australia Church Women to aid this plan. So the ACWC participants of the first visitation were Ms. Pat Walker (Australia) and Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang. But because of the chaos in East Timor in 2005, the visitation was canceled then. By the way, the relationship between Australia and East Timor is very close. If we can have an Ex. Co. member from Australia to be the team member, it will be helpful for a future plan.

The date and schedule for East Timor was decided in a rush. The ACWC appreciates it that Donna responded to our request promptly. Now she is busy preparing for the East Timor meeting. Please pray for her future journey.

ACWC Ex. Sec. will visit Cambodia on 29-31 July 2009

2009-07-27T14:22:00.002+08:00

For supporting Cambodia, the ACWC Executive Secretary/ Ms. Shu-Wen Chiang can meet the General Assembly Secretary of the Kampuchea Christian Council and the Kampuchea Christian Council Women Desk on 09-31 July 2009 in Cambodia.

The 40th Anniversary National Assembly of the NFKWS

2009-07-15T15:57:00.000+08:00

The National Federation of Kyodan Women’s Societies held the 40th Anniversary National Assembly on 02-03 June 2009 in Chi-Ba City, Japan. The ACWC Ex. Sec., Shu-Wen was invited to attend. After the Assembly, Shu-Wen also had a lunch meeting with the ACWC-Japan members on 04 June. All details about the Assembly and the lunch meeting will be presented in the July-September 2009 ACWC Newsletter.

The Seminar for Mongolia in July, 2009

2009-07-15T15:53:00.000+08:00

For promoting the ACWC-Mongolia, the ACWC Office, the ACWC-Japan and the ICFLC worked together to hold the ACWC/ FLC seminar in Mongolia on 06-12 July 2009. The details will be reported later.

Ni-Ling Finished Her Terms of the Women’s Ministry PCT

2009-06-25T16:40:00.000+08:00

The ACWC Ex. Co. member--Rev. Ni-ling Lin finished her terms (1998-2009) for the Program Secretary of the Women’s Ministry of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) in June 2009. Rev. Hsing-Ling Lee will be her successor after June 2009.

Position Vacant—Executive Secretary (2011-2014)

2009-06-25T11:56:00.002+08:00

A position exists in the Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) for an executive secretary. The executive secretary is the implementing officer of the Asian Church Women’s Conference. The person selected for this position will be able to use their skills to ensure the proper management and administration of the affairs of the Asian Church Women’s Conference in consultation and coordination with the Executive Committee of the ACWC.

Key Selection Criteria

Commitment and passion for ACWC
Understanding of ecumenism and its relationship to ACWC
Ability to promote ACWC and network with other Christian organisations and ecumenical bodies
Ability to work as part of a team and be self-motivated
Excellent computer and administration skills
Proficient in spoken and written English skills
Ability to organise the ACWC calendar and deliver appropriate solutions to meet critical dates.

A comprehensive position description is available from Captain Donna Bryan, ACWC Assembly Secretary, email: donna.bryan@aus.salvationarmy.org

All applications must address the key selection criteria and the competencies and responsibilities required for this position as outlined in the position description.

Confidential applications should be addressed to:

Confidential—Captain Donna Bryan
ACWC Assembly Secretary
PO Box 479
Blackburn VIC 3130
AUSTRALIA
email: donna.bryan@aus.salvationarmy.org

Applications close 4.30pm, Monday 9 November 2009.

The Brief Report of the 4th Meeting of the 13th Quadrennial of the ACWC Executive Committee, 17-22 April 2009, Seoul, Korea

2009-06-09T17:03:00.003+08:00

Present
President—Nareeboon Rachkeeree (Thailand)
Vice President/Honorary Treasurer—Pauline Yates (Aoteraoa-New Zealand)
Assembly Secretary—Captain Donna Bryan (Australia)
Executive Member—Gloria Kalpona Sarker (Bangladesh)
Executive Member—Revd Ni-Ling Lin (Taiwan)
Ex-officio Member —Shu-Wen Chiang (Executive Secretary ACWC)
Ex-officio Member— Corazon (Cora) Tabing-Reyes (Executive Secretary ICFLC)

Apologies
Executive Member—Revd Rosmalia Barus (Indonesia)

Proposal for fundraising
1. Send the request to other ecumenical organizations for more support. But the priority is that our ACWC member countries should support our own needs.
2. From 2009, the ACWC raises affiliation fee from $100 USD to $150 USD or greater.
3. Encourage some member countries to fund their delegates’ airfares and any local travel expenses incurred within the country that the delegates represent.
4. Encourage the member countries to ‘adopt’ the projects and scholarships.

Amending the Constitution at the 14th Assembly continued
Details for discussion will be sent out to the members by the end of October 2009. The finalization will be decided at the 14th ACWC Assembly, 2010.

The process of new Ex. Sec. 2011-2014
1. The search committee is comprised of the President, Vice President and Assembly Secretary.
2. Search Committee will follow ACWC By-Laws in writing up the job application. (Any changes to ACWC By-Laws brought about by updating job description to be presented at General Assembly e.g. website updating.)
3. Applicants require endorsement of their national ecumenical body and their church.
4. The form and advertisement was announced by the ACWC Secretariat Office on 16 June 2009.

Cooperation with the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) for WEAVE in East Timor after 2009
The WEAVE in East Timor is on hold until the situation in East Timor is stable.

The process of editing the ACWC History Book
Ex. Co. members to ask for photos of Assemblies and past officers, especially before 1998.

A form for the scholars’ reports
The final version of the form was sent out to the Gen. Co. members on 26 May after the Ex. Co. meeting.

Young Women’s Committee
Revised ‘Proposal for Setting up Young Women’s Committee in the Asian Church Women’s Conference’.
The young women will be included in the ‘reflections on ACWC’section of the history book. The ACWC Secretariat Office will add time for reflection to the Assembly timetable. The process of setting up the YWC will also be recorded in the ACWC History Book.

Future themes/member countries for the ACWC Day
Add the ongoing projects and scholarships to the ACWC Day liturgy.

2012 ACWC Day
Agreed that Singapore prepare the liturgy for 2012.
The future themes and countries responsible for preparing the liturgy will be announced by the end of August 2009. (It already was announced in 2009.)

The preparation of the 14th ACWC Assembly
1. ACWC officers will meet in Indonesia with the local hosts in January 2010.
2. Participants: 200. Up to 4 delegates and up to 7 observers from each country. That is, a maximum of 11 participants from each member country. Any additional local people attending will not receive Assembly materials e.g. handbook.
3. Guidelines, rough schedule, forms for the Assembly. Forms will be sent out to the Gen. Co. members by the end of October 2009.
4. Small group leaders at the Assembly.
Proposed leaders:
1) Natural Disasters in Asia, Devika Ukwatte (Sri Lanka) and Zohming Thang (Myanmar)
2) Ecology and Women, Shakuntala Abraham (Malaysia) and Oranat Katue (Thailand)
3) Family Violence and Gender Relations, Gloria Kalpona Sarker (Bangladesh) and Rev. Mei-Li Huang (Taiwan)
4) Youth and Empowerment, Shanti Mathai (India) and Thain Molly Lazarus (Singapore)
5) Human Trafficking, Kyoko Burger (Japan) and Jyotsna Rani Patro (India)
Guidelines will be supplied for group leaders and will be sent out to the leaders by the end of August 2010.
5. ACWC Souvenirs
Suggestions:
· Pin
· Fan/voting card
· Pen

Future Prayer Partner 2010-2014 will be announced at the 14th ACWC Assembly.

Hong Kong membership
The HKWCC suggested the ACWC change the National Body from the HKWCC to the HKCC. The ACWC Secretariat Office will contact Hong Kong about the General Assembly and ask if they want to attend and observe.

Scholar accepted for 2009
Ani Mondal, Bangladesh, for 4 year term
Others (four) subject to meeting application requirements.
Executive Committee members agreed that the National Representatives need to send an official letter to ACWC stating the amount received each year for each scholar.
There are now 11 (eleven) scholars including the current scholars. In the future reports to the General Assembly highlight the number of scholars supported by other bodies. Emphasise that more funds need to be raised to support scholars.

Projects accepted for 2009
Bangladesh—Safe drinking water for hill tract people
Cambodia—Health education training
Nepal—Trauma awareness training
Sri Lanka—Humanitarian services to the internally displaced persons of the north and east due to the civil war—is accepted as the emergency fund.
Noted that projects need follow up and a report to be submitted from the National Representative re: projects. Report must include expenses.

ACWC Accounts
ACWC monies need to be kept in safe accounts. The risks for ACWC monies was demonstrated recently because of the global economic crisis. Question asked: Does the Executive Committee have the authority to move the funds to another bank?
Treasurer asked if she could prepare a proposal re: the budget and present it at the General Assembly to keep members informed.

2009 ACWC Assistance Project Fund

2009-05-21T11:44:00.003+08:00

This year, the ACWC received 6 application forms from the ACWC member countries.
Three projects are accepted:

Bangladesh — Safe drinking water for hill tract people
Cambodia — Health education training
Nepal — Trauma awareness training

The budget for each project is 1000.00 USD.
The Project from Sri Lanka —“Humanitarian services to the internally displaced persons of the north and east due to the civil war” is qualified for the emergency fund not project assistance fund. The ICFLC also plans to release the emergency fund to Sri Lanka.

Liturgy for Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) Day. 2006

2009-05-07T17:32:00.005+08:00

Theme: Visioning the Future

*Preparation:
While the prelude music is being played, some women carry symbols of faith and life to the altar: an open Bible to be placed at the center, one big lighted candle, a potted flowery plant and the banner of the ACWC.

*Call to Worship
Leader: For the living of these days,
let us heed promptings of possibility,
let us evoke creativities of compassion,
let us be poised for flight on soaring wings of faith and love.
O come, let us worship!

*Hymn of Praise

*Prayer of Invocation: [Psalm 24:4, 6-7] In Unison
Powerful God, we praise you for Jesus Christ,
who entered the ancient gates in peace,
whose glory was shown on the cross,
whose power was shown in love.
We come before you,
not with pure hearts,
not with clean hands,
yet we seek your blessing,
we seek your face.
Grant us your grace and your peace,
Glory be to you, O God! Amen.

Litany of Confession
Leader: Here, God, we are yours. Silent now, but filled with new awareness of all our possibilities. Still now, yet full of energy for your reign of justice. Prayerfully we come to hear your Word and celebrate the Gospel, which makes us the new beings we are only just discovering inside ourselves. With hope we approach you in worship that we may celebrate the community we have become.
Great and gracious God, we have known your presence in our midst through calls to personhood, to faith, to justice, and to action. We turn humbly in confession to acknowledge that we have failed you, and each other, and ourselves.
Voice 1: O God, our Creator, we confess that we have turned away from the startling reality of our creation in your image. In fear, we have turned our backs on the dominion granted us at the beginning of time and have accepted cultural definitions of femininity and masculinity. We recognize now that by these sins we have distorted your image upon this earth. O merciful God, forgive us for failing to be with you the co-creators we were called to be.
People: Forgive us and make us free!
Voice 2: O God of all Wisdom, confronted by injustice and the awesome powers and principalities of our day, we recoil in fear and take refuge in our powerlessness. Frozen into passivity and hiding behind complexity, we pray for others to take action at moments when our leadership is necessary. O merciful God, forgive us for forgetting that your Spirit brings wisdom to those who must step forward at times like these.
People: Forgive us and make us bold!
Voice 3: O God of all the universe, we confess that we have permitted the happenstance of birth to divide us not only from, but against, each other. We celebrate our differences, and yet we fail to create that unity which the gospel demands. O merciful God, forgive us for closing ourselves to your Spirit which would unite and empower us for mission.
People: Forgive us and make us one!
Voice 4: O God of all time, forgive us. We live in a society which wastes resources and people. We have become accustomed to such waste. We value the young and the new and the shiny. Yet you, God, promise to make all things new. O merciful God, forgive us for our willingness to be every kind of new creation but yours.
People: Forgive us and make us new!
Leader: Come close, God, and hear the inner yearnings of these your people who seek to be faithful, who long to live justly and to live for justice. We seek your loving forgiveness, as surely as we are a people of faith. For in this prayer, we confess not only our wrongdoing but also our faith. Come, God our Creator, who is known in Jesus Christ. Come through your Holy Spirit and free us of these burdens.
People: Amen
-Prepared for the first National Meeting of Women, UCC, USA

Hymn of Faith or Thanksgiving

*Greetings and Passing the Peace of Christ
Leader: Let us rise to welcome and greet each other with a handshake or hug of fellowship, saying to one another, “The peace of Christ be with you.”

*Scripture Readings
Old Testament: Isaiah 65:17-25
New Testament: Luke 4:14-21

Meditation

*Prayer for the Journey to the Future
Leader: Our lives are a journey, and the road goes ever on. It’s a road that began with our birth, that winds its way through meadows and mountains that crosses rivers and canyons.
People: For the bread that has sustained us on our journey, for the guides who have led us, we offer thanks and praise, O God.
Leader: We pray for those whose journey ends mere moments after it has begun.
People: We pray for those who do not have the strength to travel on.
Leader: We pray for those whose path seems continually to wind back upon itself, spiraling through poverty, pain, prison of soul or mind or body,
People: And for those whose path is in the coils of malice until joy and power and life itself are crushed out.
Leader: In the landscape of your abounding love we know there are paths leading into tomorrows yet unfathomed. There are days ahead when all our children shall walk upon a green and fruitful earth,
People: Unafraid of war, unbeset by want,
Leader: Untouched by pain or loneliness, selfishness or uselessness.
People: Help us to shape such a world through the ACWC…that through the prayers and women gathered, we become agents of change, moving the world towards real peace, reconciliation, forgiveness and justice for all.
Leader: Let our paths not be narrow and self-preoccupied.
People: Let us build broad highways, where all may walk together in beauty, tending the gardens along the way.
Leader: As we journey on through pleasure and pain, commitment and betrayal, keep us mindful that we do not walk alone;
People: That you are a Presence in our midst;
Leader:That in Jesus of Nazareth you came and shared our common lot;
People: That you walk beside us and dance ahead of us into the future.
Leader:Deliver us, we pray, from the mire of grudges and regrets. We yearn to break away from all that, to come running to your open arms, to your arms that are spread wide with mercy and acceptance.
People: All these things we pray in the name of Jesus, whose story brings life to a dying world, hope to a despairing people, justice and love to a realm of strife. Amen.

Offertory Music

The Gathering of the ACWC

*Prayer of the Asian Church Women's Conference In Unison
O loving Creator, we present ourselves in your divine presence to thank you for all the bountiful gifts of life. We are especially grateful for the ACWC, which binds us together in love and supporting around the Asian area. Free us from all doubts and prejudices, we pray. Inspire us to live in solidarity with humankind that we may know the joy of giving and receiving.
Dear God, accept our prayers. Let us honor your creation with love, as shown through the life and resurrection of your Son, Jesus the Christ. Amen.

*Closing Hymn

*Affirmation of Faith
Leader: Isaiah said:
“It shall come to pass that the peoples
shall beat their swords into plowshares,
and their spears into pruning hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war anymore.”

People: This is our vision:
That a world of harmony and peace
will replace our world
of injustice and war.

Leader: Jesus said:
“Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God.”

People: This is our calling:
To know God’s ways of peace,
and so to make peace,
in our family and community,
our nation and world.

Leader: Paul said:
“In Christ, God was reconciling the world..
not counting their trespasses against them,
and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.”

People: This is our faith:
That in Jesus,
we meet the God who makes peace
with our wayward and hurting world;
and that by this reconciling love,
we are moved to bridge the chasms
of fear and estrangement.

All: May it be so. Amen

*Benediction
Leader: The way is long, let us go together.
People: The way is difficult, let us help each other.
Leader: The way is joyful, let us share it.
People: The way is Christ’s, for Christ is the Way, let us follow.
Leader: The way is open before us, let us go:
All: with the love of God,
the grace of Christ, and
the communion of the Holy Spirit.
Let us journey together. Amen.

*Postlude

--------------------------------------
*AT THIS SIGN, the congregation please rise.
*This was a joint effort of the special committee which the Church Women United of the Philippines, CWUP Board constituted composed of Zeny Maturan, Prima Formillosa and Coralie to draft. Zeny is the head of Philippines World Day of Prayer Committee and Prima is the National President of the Federation of Baptist Women. The ACWC national representative, Estrella del Mundo, of course also contributed to the ideas.

The 2009 ACWC Ex. Co. Meeting

2009-05-07T12:08:00.029+08:00

The 4th Meeting of the 13th Quadrennial of

the Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC

Executive Committee,

on 17-22 April 2009, Seoul, Korea

Liturgy for Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) Day. 2007

2009-05-05T17:18:00.019+08:00

Theme: Seeking Christ's Peace

Prelude
Leader: (Matthew 5:9) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (New Revised Standard Version)

Call to Worship
Leader: Last year, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the ACWC together. Since then, we have taken a new step forward. Today, we are gathered together to seek the peace of Jesus Christ. Let us unite our hearts in this message from Japan and use this time to worship the name of the Lord, to sing praises, and to pray together.
Peace! Men and women, young and old, people throughout the world are seeking peace. In the Lord, we know Christ, the Lord of Peace, who gives us true and solid peace, not like bubbles that just pop and disappear. It is this Christ who releases us from sin and gives us true freedom. We receive true rest in God, the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we are able to receive Christ’s peace.
The previous world war shook all people throughout the world, many lives were taken, human rights ignored, and countries and people alike were severely damaged. Time has passed. However, even in the peace that we can see today there are still many people in various places throughout the world suffering because of war. Even now, right here near us, there are people who are still dealing with many problems of the postwar era. Each one of us, having received faith and wisdom and strength from God to be sent as messengers of peace, is desirous of moving forward.

Hymn: 19 Great God Our Source

Solidarity
The Testimony of Suzuko Numata
Suzuko Numata is a Hiroshima storyteller. Let us listen to her testimony.
I was 21 at that time and full of joy, because my fiancé was back home on leave from the war, and in 2-3 days we were to celebrate our wedding.
August 6, 1945. Just as I was about to go downstairs after finishing the usual morning cleaning where I worked, a beautiful light - blue, red, green, yellow, orange - all these colors spread out in front of my eyes. It was the flash of the atomic bomb. The violent wind blew me about like a leaf in a gust of wind. In the midst of this raging torrent of desks and chairs, I was crushed under the rubble.
When I regained consciousness, I was told that only 3 cm of skin remained where my left foot had been severed at the ankle and that I was bleeding from the wound. Like many other injured people, my foot was left untreated, and as a result, two days later became gangrenous up to the knee joint. When the doctor announced that my leg would have to be amputated from the thigh, I cried defiantly, realizing that I would never again be able to work or get married. However, the people around me encouraged me to have the surgery by reminding me of the importance of the life that had been saved. For a long while, the leg that had been amputated hurt as if it were still there and caused me great suffering.
Moreover, at the end of the war I received the news that my fiancé had been killed in the war. The war took everything from me. If it had not been for the war, I would not have lost my leg, and my fiancé would not have died. Because of that despair and sadness, for two years I was unable to recover on my own.
Then one day my mother reproached me, and her words were the push I needed to begin living again and to learn to walk with a 4-kg artificial leg. I had already given up the idea of getting married, but making the best use of the dexterity left in my hands, I obtained a teaching certificate in home economics and was assigned to teach high school girls.
However, for 28 years I didn’t speak a word about my wartime experiences. I didn’t want to expose my scars in front of everyone. Then appearing in an American documentary pushed me into giving my testimony and becoming active in the peace movement. I was given this chance to regain my life through someone who had become a storyteller before me. For 20 years now in front of student groups who come to Hiroshima I have continued to testify to the importance of peace, to the horrors of the atomic bomb, and to the misery caused by war.
Furthermore, making a peace pilgrimage to Okinawa on crutches gave me the chance to come face to face with the problem of the wrongs Japan had committed during the war. It made me think about the fact that there were tragedies no one had told me about and tragedies I didn’t know anything about that had led to the war. Through meeting and listening to the testimony of people there, I heard the cry for life itself. I encountered Korea through Korean atomic bomb survivors. I encountered China with its history of invasion and massacre, and Malaysia where civilians were also massacred. Through these journeys, I became aware of myself as one of the Japanese perpetrators of the war, and as a result of this unbearable feeling I apologized to them and have been able to continue this kind of exchange ever since.
One sister from China had survived 37 sword wounds all over her body, which had resulted in a miscarriage. While stroking each other’s scars, we talked about how we wanted to let as many people as possible know how we got those scars.
By looking hard at both the wrongs done and the damage inflicted and through our experiences of telling the truth about history to succeeding generations, we must educate a generation to believe “we can’t allow this mistake ever to happen again.”
For humanity to continue to live happily, as my small personal campaign I am appealing to everyone to oppose war, nuclear weapons, discrimination, environmental pollution and the destruction of nature. My testimony is only one small seed of peace. I am planting many seeds, so please water them well. For this beautiful earth and for a wonderful future, let us all join to cultivate those seeds so that they will become big and strong.
[extracted from Chikahiro Hiroiwa, Aogiri no shita de (Beneath the Chinese Parasol Tree), Akashi Shoten, 1993]

Hymn：25 For the healing of the nations

Prayer of Confession
Leader: Lord of love and peace, for the fact that when the war was over we focused only on our own suffering,
People: Forgive us, oh Lord.
Leader: For the fact that we have lived without noticing that we also had committed wrongs,
People: Forgive us, oh Lord.
Leader: Even now, we want only our own abundance, and we shut our eyes to the poverty and suffering of the people around us. For all this and for our indifference to injustice and brutality,
People: Forgive us, oh Lord.
Leader: For the fact that we embrace feelings without love towards our neighbors, that we are prejudiced and discriminate against people whose circumstances differ from ours,
People: Forgive us, oh Lord.
Leader: Instead, make us poor. The wisdom and spirituality to live together with those who are suffering,
People: Give us, oh Lord.
Leader: The joy of the suffering and resurrection shown us through Jesus Christ,
People: Let all experience together, oh Lord.

Scripture Lesson (Ephesians 2:14-18):
“For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father.” (New Revised Standard Version)

Short Message (Delivered by Local Committee)

Hymn Our Hope

Leader: Even now, the causes of war have not been eliminated from the world.
As a country that has experienced the effects of the atomic bomb, we can tell the people of the world of our deep sadness and ask that you would lead us to be able to walk the path of true peace.
People: Lord, give us your peace.
Leader: At the same time, we remember the fact that we not only suffered, but that we also brought suffering. Grant that we may not seek to escape from this pain but rather to accept it as spiritual nourishment, and give us the courage to work for you.
People: Lord, fill our hearts with your love.
Leader: We are ever mindful of the joy that is ours because you have forgiven us, but we share the heart of those experiencing deep sadness now. Lead us that together we may be able to seek your peace.
People: Lead us, we pray.
Leader: Strengthen us as we seek to respect the diversity of different points of view and help us to be able to love each other and work with you.
People: Lord, lead us, we pray.

Prayer of Intercession
*Suggest lighting up a small candle in everyone’s hand and being silent for a few minutes to remember those who suffered seriously from the war. Or lay out or hang up a world map at the front. When doing the intercessory prayers, people go forth to the front and put a sticker (in the shape of heart) on the country that they would like to pray for.

1. Pray for the victims who suffered / were injured in the Lebanon War.
2. Pray for the landmine problem in Cambodia.
3. Pray for the cutting down of nuclear weapons in North Korea, India, and Pakistan.
4. Pray for peace between China and Taiwan. (More than 700 missiles set by China threaten Taiwan.)

Leader: We pray for all those who suffer because of war and destruction which arise from the deep sin of humanity. There is no end to the chain of hatred in the world. In the midst of this deep sorrow, give us light and courage. We pray for those who are unable to accept their own worth and who do not hear the voice of God saying to them, “You are precious in my sight” (Isaiah 43:4). May your love be preached, the love that desires that not even one of your creatures should perish, and through your love may true peace be established.

Offertory and Prayer

Sending Forth and Benediction
Leader: Wherever we are, send us forth so that we may all be used abundantly as messengers of Christ’s peace.
(Numbers 6:24-26) “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (New Revised Standard Version)
Liberator God, Jesus Christ, Lord of peace and hope, may the work of the Holy Spirit be with each one of us to help us bring about reconciliation.
All: Amen.

Postlude

* This order of worship was prepared by the church women of Japan.

Liturgy for Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) Day. 2009

2009-05-05T10:23:00.021+08:00

Theme : From Generation to Generation

ACWC Day: The third Sunday in November in each year

Worship centre/focus: Include symbols of faith important in your culture/local customs e.g. Scriptures (a Bible); Baptism (shell/jug/bowl of water/font); Symbols of Eucharist/Communion; Cross; Candle; Drapes f colour, flowers. If culture allows, images/photos of known people of faith.
WELCOME to everyone, young and old, taking part in this service. Welcome to country by indigenous people within Australia. A recognition of the traditional owners/carers of the land.
Processional with ACWC banners

Call to Worship
Leader: Because of the great things the Mighty God's has done for us all, we worship the Lord. His name is holy: from one generation to another he shows his mercy to those who honour him.

Hymn: TiS 161 vs 1, 2 & 4 Tell out my soul, the greatness of the Lord
Tune: Woodlands 10 10. 10 10 Walter Greatorex

Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord!
Unnumbered blessings, give my spirit voice;
tender to me the promise of his word;
in God my Saviour shall my heart rejoice.

Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his name!
Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
his mercy sure, from age to age the same;
his holy name – the Lord, the Mighty One.

Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word!
Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord
to children's children and for evermore! -Timothy Dudley-Smith

The Testimony From Generation to Generation
Reference to the fact that Aboriginal people have been living in and caring for this land for over 40,000 years. Acknowledge that it was European settlement that disrupted them, and had an impact on their life style, culture, and language.

In many instances it was the Christian Church which accepted responsibility for the care of people, especially children. The decision of the Government early this year to say ‘sorry'.

In the indigenous culture, story-telling is the way in which things are passed on … the sacred stories, culture and faith traditions wiped out by Christian people. … the smoking ceremony when a baby is born. …

Grandmother – Mother – Daughter, and also Younger to Older
The local committee will choose people to speak about
Learning the Faith,
Passing on the Faith

Leader: A thanksgiving for Australia

God of holy dreaming, Great Creator Spirit,
from the dawn of creation you have given your children
the good things of Mother Earth.
You spoke and the gum tree grew.
In the vast desert and dense forest,
and in cities at the water’s edge,
creation sings your promise.
Your presence endures
as the rock at the heart of our Land.
When Jesus hung on the tree
you heard the cries of all your people
and became one with your wounded ones:
the convicts, the hunted, and the dispossessed.
The sunrise of your Son coloured the earth anew,
and bathed it in glorious hope.
In Jesus we have been reconciled to you,
to each other and to your whole creation.
Lead us on, Great Spirit,
as we gather from the four corners of the earth;
enable us to walk together in trust
from the hurt and shame of the past
into the full day which has dawned in Jesus Christ. Amen
- Ms Lenore Parker from A Prayer Book for Australia (Broughton Books 1998)

Hymn: TiS 253 O Lord Jesus Marrkapmirr
Tune: Marrkapmirr 77.75 Australian Aboriginal melody

O Lord Jesus Marrkapmirr
all the power belongs to you,
hold me by this power O Lord
you alone are king

Now we praise you for your Word,
living, true and full of light,
yours the hands that rest on me
hold me for all time.
-Aboriginal people of Arnhem land, versified by D'Arcy Wood
(Note ‘Marrkapmirr’ is a term of endearment, and means in this context ‘altogether lovely, and worthy of affection’)

Prayers of Adoration and Confession
Leader: Creating God, you called the world into being, you hold all people in your love. You called each of us into being, breathing life into us and calling us to worship you.
People: We gather in worship for we love you and adore you.
Leader: Faithful God, from generation to generation you call people of every race to serve you. We learn stories of your faithful ones as we read or listen to their stories in the Hebrew and New Testament scriptures and in lives of people in more recent times.
People: God of all people, we love you and adore you.
Leader: Amongst them you called Noah, Abraham and Sarah, the parents of Moses and later Moses himself, prophets, kings and queens, shepherds, a slave girl, Naomi and Ruth, Esther, John the Baptist, your only Son, Jesus, those whom he called and others since. Some we know, others we don't. Many gave their lives, persecuted for their faith. Many of your faithful ones suffer still.
People: God of all people, we love you and adore you.
Leader:We pause to remember in silence those times we have not reflected the love of God in our lives. (pause)
Leader: Timeless God,
We confess that we do not live as the people you create us to be. (pause)
We do not treat your created world with respect, care or compassion. (pause)
In our selfishness we are often careless as we use all you give us, taking for granted
the resources you have created.
People: We ask your forgiveness.
Leader: Caring God,
We do not always love you, others or ourselves as we should.
We forget you love all people when we exclude people because they are different. Unlike us you set no boundaries of race, gender or life style.
Unlike your faithful ones in the past we hang onto our faith, not sharing it with others even ignoring those who worship you in different ways than we do.
People: We ask your forgiveness through Christ our Saviour.
Leader: Lord God,
Bring us together as one, reconciled by you and reconciled with each other.
You made us in your likeness, you gave us your Son, Jesus Christ.
He has given us forgiveness from sin. Lord God, bring us together as one, different in culture, but given new life in Jesus Christ, together as your body, your church, your people. Lord God, bring us together as one, reconciled, healed, forgiven, sharing you with others as you have called us to do. In Jesus Christ, let us be together as One.
People: Amen
Adapted from a prayer by Bishop Arthur Malcolm from A Prayer Book for Australia (Broughton Books 1998)

Words of Assurance
Leader: John reminds us that “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Hear Christ’s words of grace to us: “Your sins are forgiven.”
People: Thanks be to God.

THE PEACE one with God, and one with each other
Leader: The peace of the Lord be always with you
People: And also with you.
(Please exchange a sign of peace with those around you)

Hymn: TiS 693 Come as you are
Tune:‘Come as you are’ - irregular. Deidre Browne, David Putney

Come as you are: that’s how I want you,
come as you are; feel quite at home,
close to my heart, loved and forgiven,
come as you are; why stand alone?

No need to fear, love sets no limits;
no need to fear, love never ends;
don’t run away shamed and disheartened,
rest in my love, trust me again.

I came to call sinners, not just the righteous;
I came to bring peace, not to condemn.
Each time you fail to live by my promise,
why do you think I’d love you the less?

Come as you are; that’s how I love you;
come as you are, trust me again.
Nothing can change the love that I bear you;
all will be well, just come as you are. -Deidre Brown

Readings from Scripture
(May be read in different languages if your community has a mixture of cultures.)
Ruth 1:14b–19a
Hebrews 11:32–12:3
Psalm 139:1–18
John 3: 1–16
Leader: Gracious God, may your word live in us.
People: And bear much fruit to your glory.

Message

Prayers of Intercession

The Lord's Prayer (in own language)
Leader: God of all truth, you have chosen as your blessed ones those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
We give thanks for those whose lives have shone with integrity and goodness.
We give thanks for your prophets of old and all today who fight for justice, freedom, and truth.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may be filled with your spirit.
God of truth, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: God of all humility, you have chosen as your blessed ones those whose hearts are simple and pure.
We give you thanks for those who do not grasp at material possessions.
We give you thanks for all those whose good works have been unnoticed and unsung.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may come to see your face.
God of humility, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: God of all faithfulness, you have chosen as your blessed ones those who have remained steadfast in the face of danger and persecution.
We give thanks for those of this church who have gone before us.
We give thanks for all whom we hold dear who are now in your eternal presence. We give thanks for all who have followed in your way until their life's end.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may rejoice to come into our reward and, with all the saints of heaven, worship you for ever.
God of all faithfulness, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.

from ' Let Us pray' by Janet Nelson, Harper Collins Religious - with alterations

Prayers for our prayer partners (for example - Australia and South Korea)

Offering for the work of ACWC, with musical interlude

Offertory Prayer
Leader: We thank you, Lord, for all you have given us.
Please accept these tokens of our love for you and use the money to further the work of your kingdom through ACWC.
People: Amen

Hymn: TiS 455 For all the saints
Tune: Sine Nomine 1010.10 and Hallelujahs Ralph Vaughan Williams

For all the saints who from their labours rest,
who to the world their Lord by faith confessed,
your name, O Jesus, be for ever blessed.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.

You were their rock, their fortress and their might,
you were their captain in the well fought fight,
in deepest darkness still their one true light.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.

And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long,
steals on the ear the distant triumph song
and hearts are brave again, and arms are strong.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.

But see, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of glory passes on his way.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.

From earth’s wide bounds and ocean’s farthest shore,
Through heaven’s gate the holy people pour;
The Three-in-One for ever they adore.
Hallelujah, hallelujah. - William Walsham How 1823-97 alt.

Sending Forth and Benediction
Leader: Go boldly into the future that God has claimed for you,
know that the God who holds all things will be there,
that Christ who calls us friend will walk beside us,
and that the Spirit who makes all things new
will mark our way with light and hope.
And the Blessing of God,
Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer,
be upon us all and remain with us always
People: Amen

Hymn: TiS 720 Halle, hallelujah!
Tune: Halle, Halle. Caribbean Traditional – arr. Terry MacArthur

Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
(repeat two or three times) - Caribbean traditional, World Council of Churches

Postlude

Prayers used with permission.
Prayers of Intercession written for this service.
TiS 161, 253, 693, 455 Hymns used with permission
(Together in Song, HarperCollins Publishers, Australia 1999)

* This order of worship was prepared by the National Executive of Australian Church Women

Past Presidents and Executive Secretaries of the ACWC, 1958-2010

2009-05-01T14:10:00.001+08:00

* Mrs. Shanti Solomon (India) Mother, Founder and the First Executive Secretary of the ACWC and the FLC, 1956-1982
* Dr. Margaret Shannon, (PW, CWUUSA) Pioneer and Founding member of the FLC Miss Dorothy Wagner (PW, CWUUSA) Midwife to the FLC and promoter of FLC
* Mrs. Rayann Ma (Hong Kong), Chairperson of the 1st ACWC Meeting 1958
* Mrs. Jael Cruz (Philippines), Chairperson of the ACWC 1958-1962
* Mrs. Juan Suriyakham (Thailand ), President of the ACWC 1962-1966
Mrs. Rathie SElvaratnam (Sri Lanka), President of the ACWC 1966-1970
Ms. Esther Bautista (Philippines), President of the ACWC 1970-1974
Ms. Agnes Loyall (India), President of the ACWC 1974-1978
Mrs. Gloria Santos (Philippines), President of the ACWC 1978-1982
Mrs. Boonmee Julkiree (Thailand), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1982-1986
Mrs. Maya Michael (India), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1986-1990
Ms. Monika Mannon (Bangladesh), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1990-1994
Mrs. Woranut Pantupong (Thailand), President of the ACWC 1994-1998
Mrs. Nancy Lin (Taiwan), President of the ACWC 1998-2002/ Chairperson of ICFLC 1999-2002
Ms. Annamaney Arumanayagam (Malaysia), President of the ACWC 2002-2006
Ms. Nareeboon Rachkeeree (Thailand), President of the ACWC 2006-President
Ms. Shanti Soloman (India), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1970-1981
Ms. Eunic Kim (Korea), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1982-1994
Rev. IIuminada A. Domingo (Philippines), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1994-2002
Ms. Chiang, Shu-Wen (Taiwan), Executive Secretary, ACWC 2002-Present

Pray for Thailand and Nareeboon

2009-04-24T13:00:00.000+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:
Here is a very urgent request for prayers from the ACWC Secretariat Office.
Last week, our President—Nareebon was in the hospital for three days due to dizziness and nausea. She is fine now. May our Lord protect her mind, soul and health.
From the news we know that Thailand is facing another political crisis. We pray that our Lord bless Thailand for peace. We also pray for Nareeboon that she can have a safe and smooth travel to Korea on 17 April for our up coming Ex. Co. meeting in Seoul Korea.
Your prayers and support are very important to us.

Rev. Mei-Li Huang Was Elected as the Moderator of Presbytery

2009-03-30T11:38:00.002+08:00

If you attended the Celebration of ACWC Jubilee and the 2008Gen. Co. meeting in 2008 in Taiwan, you should be impressed by the hospitality of the Rev. Mei-Li Huang, the local pastor of Chia-Nan Presbyterian Church, the ACWC Taiwan National Representative. According to her passion for mission and leadership, she was elected as the 2009 moderator of Ping-Tung Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan. We not only say congratulations to Rev. Huang, we also praise our Lord that our God always know how to choose the proper person for the right position.

Introducing the New ACWC-Mongolia National Representative to You

2009-03-17T14:30:00.000+08:00

From the Mongolian updates I can tell what our ACWC- Mongolia has taken towards its development. On 12 and 19 January 2009, the ACWC-Mongolia held board meetings. As a result, the Board agreed to select Ms. Munkhtuul Sodnomtseren as the new Chair Person. She automatically became the National Representative.

Munkhtuul was born in 1975. She is married and has two children (a son 8 years old and a daughter 6 years old). She accepted Christ as her Saviour in 1995 and has been attending the "Bright Future" church since then. She is a leader of the Women's Ministry team of her own church. She is also one of the four leaders of the Mongolian National Intercessory Network under the Mongolian Evangelical Alliance.

From 1997 to 2003, she taught at the Primary and Secondary School as an ESL teacher of the International School of Ulaanbaatar. From 2003 to 2007, she was the Executive Assistant of the World Vision International Mongolia. Meanwhile she worked part time as the country manager of the Australian Youth Ambassadors for the Development Program (AYAD). Since 2007, she has been full time for “the In-country manager of the AYAD program”.

Let us welcome the new member from Mongolia. We also appreciate Muno’s hard work for the ACWC in 2006-2008.

Interview with Kampuchea Christian Council Women’s Desk (KCCWD) in 2008

2009-03-17T14:08:00.006+08:00

by Ming Chien Lin, Taiwan

In 2007 the Women’s Ministry Committee of The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT-Women) and the Kampuchea Christian Council (KCC-Women’s Desk) became prayer partners through the Asian Church Women’s Council (ACWC). Since then, the PCT-Women has been supporting KCC in a 3-year scholarship program assisting the poor children in Cambodia to go to school. Because of this project, Rev. Huang Mei-Li and I were to represent PCT-Women to visit our prayer partner and the school children from the program. Moreover, we were to bring 2 funds, one for Prak Saravy, the Secretary of KCC-Women’s Desk and her driver the 2,675 USD we raised for them plus the remaining of the scholarship funding (2,475USD).
We arrived in Phnum Penh at 11:45am on 28 November, 2008. Saravy and her Driver Yin Sima came to pick us up and took us out for lunch. On our way to the restaurant, we told Saravy about the funds PCT-Women raised for her and Sima and we brought it with us. Saravy kept giving thanks to God, saying that “He is a God who answers prayers.” Then she explained about how CCA had given Kampuchea Christian Council (KCC) some money in May to pay for its workers, but the amount was only enough for 4 months. Starting from October she was not able to receive her monthly income. That is why she was very thankful that God not only had ACWC prepared 750 USD for her ministry, but also had PCT-Women raised money for her monthly income. “This way,” we told her, “you will have a steady income starting from October this year into the next year.”

Visiting KCC’s General Assembly’s Office, Handing over the Funds to Secretary of Women’s Desk
Due to the KCC’s insufficient funding, the General Assembly had taken from the Women’s Desk’s founding in the past; because of this action, the KCC women’s ministries were suspended at one point. For this reason, in our first meeting with Saravy, she suggested we hand over the funds publicly and clarify the purpose of these funds in which they are not to be used otherwise.
In the afternoon we visited the KCC’s office, where we met Dith Sareth-the General Secretary, Van Arun Rasmey-the Chairperson of Women’s Committee, and three other Women’s Committee members. During our meeting, we handed over the funds to Saravy indicating that 1 of the 2 funds is strictly for Saravy and Sima’s salaries and the other is for the scholarship project for the poor children in Cambodia. Meanwhile, Sareth, the General Secretary questioned upon this decision because it would give the KCC 2 separate accounts, one for the office and another for the KCC-Women’s ministry committee. Also, he could not supervise the women’s ministry’s account activities. Thankfully, Arun volunteered to supervise Saravy’s ministry and the ministry expenses. It is also under the circumstance where the PCT-Women must first confirm the expense budget and Sareth will review the detailed expense list and ministry report. Finally we have reached an agreement after insisting on the restricted use for the funds.
Later on that night we invited the committee members, Saravy and Sima, for dinner. Despite of our language barriers, we really enjoyed each other’s company; with smiles and gratitude; we understood each other.

The Joyous Gathering on Women’s Saturday
The afternoon of the second day is Women’s Saturday. It is one of the KCC Women’s ministries, to gather church women across denominations. When they gather, they do Bible studies, they share and they pray. Sometimes more people would gather for special meetings such as the World Day of Prayer Service. The meetings usually take place in the general assembly’s office or in different churches led by Saravy or Arun during Bible studies. This time the meeting took place in Arun’s home. She opened her home to start a home church, and the pastor is her husband. I was the moderator for this afternoon’s service; and about 40 women came to the meeting. My translator is a student named Sous Navy, supported by the ACWC’s scholarship program for her university education. Our meeting ended earlier than we expected but we continued to share fervently with one another during dinner. During this time, we even prayed and took offerings for a woman whose husband is a pastor and the wife is a nurse for the poor.
The next day we went to Arun’s home for Sunday service. The moment we arrived, we saw a group of children having Sunday school in the yard. Once these innocent children saw us, they warmly welcomed and greeted us. The Sunday service was lead by Rev. Huang Mei-Lin. About 40 people came to the Service, most young adults who have brought so much energy to the church. To begin the service, Navy led us to worship. Although Rev. Huang and I did not understand their language we still came across some familiar Christmas tunes. In Rev. Hung’s message that day, she preached on God’s unchanging love. The fact that no matter what we go through in life, let it be poverty or adversities, God loves us the same; for we are precious in His sight.
After the service Arun invited us to stay for lunch, and took us to the Toulseleng Museum afterwards. This museum was originally a school, but later became a prison house for ex-politicians, social elites, and civil citizens when Pol Pot (of the communist party) was in power. Pol Pot killed millions of Cambodians in the past. Even though Cambodia is a republic and this country right now, still people cannot forget the sufferings they endured under the communist regime. Later the Cambodian government turned this building into a museum to serve as a reminder for the people to turn away from tyranny to pursue freedom and justice.

Visiting the Kindergarten for Poor Children
Early the next morning Sima came to pick us up to go to the Prey Khjey Village. It is the place where the kindergarten funded by “The Poor Children Scholarship Project” is located. Beside Saravy and Sima there was another women’s ministry committee member named Kem Ponavy coming with us. Initially the committee planned to enroll 30 children in the kindergarten, but ended up taking 24 children due to inflation. On the day of our visit, only 23 children came, and one was absent. The children are between the ages of 3 to 6, with the exception of the one child who is 10 years old. The 10 year old boy comes from a very poor family and could not afford to go to a regular school, which is why he came to this kindergarten instead. The kindergarten is located in Prey Khjeh Church; the church pastor’s eldest son is their teacher. His name is Khorn Hai, a 22 year old young man. And his mother Doung Kieng, the pastor’s wife, helps out by cooking for these children.

When we arrived at the church, Khorn Hai was teaching the children the alphabet. He warmly welcomed us, and in turn we were so excited that we took out the presents we brought for the children to give to him. He wanted us to hand out some of the gifts to the children, so we decided to give them candies. The children were very polite; they first thanked us then ate the candies. During our conversation with Khorn Hai he told us about his teaching with special emphasis on their attitude, and how to care for others. Although these children’s parents are not Christians, still he taught these children stories from the Bible and it was well received. Later he even asked the children to sing us a song. The way they sang and danced was simply adorable.
Khorn Hai went on talking about his desire to teach the adults who have had little or no education. In the same conversation, he told us how his father pastors the church without receiving a monthly income.
While our conversation was brief, the poverty stricken village and its need for education were evident. In the end Rev. Huang and I decided to give some money to bless the church. We truly hope the church ministries will continue and the gospel will spread among the village people.
Another example of the KCC’s women’s ministry committee is the weaving classes. For that reason Saravy took us to see the process of weaving and one of the classes. We saw an instructor teaching the students one step at a time so the students can watch the instructor and imitate him. Saravy told us that because of the ACWC’s generous support they can afford to pay for the weaving machines and the instructor’s salary. The students purchase materials themselves so they can sell their finished product.

The Price of Democracy
On our way back to Phnum Penh, we visited the Killing Field where the massacre by Pol Pot took place. Once again, we were stunned by the evidence of Pol Pot’s violence and cruelty. At the end of the day we sat by the riverside, ate some local delicacies and then returned to our hotel.
Our trip in Cambodia ended on the 5th day. In the morning of our last day we even visited the palace. Even though Cambodia is a republic right now, it is still under a monarchy system, and the laws were constituted by the king. The palace had been a forbidden place in the past, but now the democratic system led the palace to open it to the public. We witnessed how the Cambodian government is transformed from absolute power to democracy, had established museums and opened up the forbidden palace. When I think of our country I am more determined that Taiwan cannot turn back on the road of democracy, we must cherish and keep the freedom we have now and protect the rights of our people.Even though our 5-day visit was short, still we felt very privileged to visit our prayer partners on behalf of the PCT-women’s ministry committee. During these amazing 5 days, the love of God was clearly with us because it helped us to care and to pray for the Cambodian churches in despite of our differences. We do wish this special bond between PCT-Women and KCC-Women will last in which we continue to pray for one another and to witness God’s divine love and acceptance.

The National Body of the member countries

2009-02-19T11:45:00.003+08:00

Australia: Australian Church Women, ACW
Bangladesh: The Department of Women of National Council of Church in Bangladesh, NCC-Bangladesh
Cambodia: Women Desk of the Kampuchea Christian Council, KCCWD
Hong Kong: Women Christian Council, Hong Kong , HKWCC
India: All India Council of Christian Women, AICCW
Indonesia: The Women and Children Department of Communion of Churches in Indonesia, CCI (or PGI)
Japan: ACWC-Japan
Mongolia: ACWC-Mongolia
Korea: The Korea Church Women United, KCWU
Malaysia: The Council of Churches of Malaysia, CCM
Myanmar: Council of Churches Myanmar, CCM
Nepal: 2002-Isai Nari Samaj, Kathmandu, (Christian Women Society)
Since 2008-ACWC-Nepal
New Zealand: Church Women United Aotearoa New Zealand
Pakistan: National Council of Churches Pakistan
Philippines: Church Women United Philippines, CWUP
Singapore: Singapore World Day Prayer Committee
Sri Lanka: National Association of Church Women ( NACW) in Sri Lanka
Taiwan: The Women’s Ministry Committee of the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan, PCT
Thailand: The Women of the Church of Christ in Thailand, CCT

Australia's Heartbreak

2009-02-09T17:38:00.003+08:00

2009/2/9
My dear ACWC members:
This morning I received the mail from our ACWC Australian National Representative, Capt. Donna Bryan about brushfire in Australia:

“Dear Shu-Wen,
I am writing to let you know of the tragedy that has unfolded in Australia in recent days.
Over the last 3 days southeast Australia has endured devastating bushfires. The State of Victoria has experienced the greatest natural disaster in Australia's history with the worst loss of life since records began. To date, more than 120 people have perished and property losses are huge, as well as many people being injured and suffering life-threatening burns.
Ferocious fires began to roar across the Victorian bush on Saturday during record temperatures for Victoria. The temperature rose above 46ºC (115ºF) in many parts of Victoria and the bush seemed to explode as the smallest flames were whipped into a giant inferno by very strong and very hot winds that were blowing across the state.
Small town after small town was engulfed in flames with little or no warning and there were few means of escape. For Victoria’s small population of nearly 5 million, it has been a horrific time and in spite of cooler temperatures today there are still many fires burning out of control across the state.
New South Wales and South Australia have also been struggling with huge bushfires and extreme temperatures, but fortunately they have not sustained the high loss of life suffered in Victoria.
'On Christ the solid rock we stand.'

Donna”

http://n.yam.com/view/mkphotopage.php/20090209619965

I also received the update from our Gen. Co. member— Ms. Pat Walker who also came from Australia, she said:

“Dear Shu-Wen,
Here in Australia we woke to find out that Victoria is fighting eleven bushfires. Victoria is the state where Donna lives. In the north of Australia the states have had record floods and in the south we have had record heat with water restrictions. Although South Australia is also fighting bushfires at this time, Victoria has the worst problem. Usually our fires rage through bushland but these have destroyed many houses with loss of life expected to reach 40. Volunteer fire fighters have been travelling from all states to Victoria to help out and planes are being used to drop water from the skies. At times like these our volunteer emergency services work together but it is a very dangerous and difficult job fighting fires in 40 degrees C heat. We will all be praying today. As it happens this is the first day in two weeks that the temperature has fallen and the sky is overcast. I believe it is also a bit cooler in Vctoria.
(later, Pat sent another update to me
Further to my email yesterday re the bushfires in Australia. There have been about 500 fire crews from around the country fighting about 30 fires in Victoria overnight. So far 108 people have been killed and many more injured. 750 homes have been destroyed and three schools. Two people have been arrested for lighting fires. This is one of Australia's worst natural disasters. There are more fires in New South Wales but not as many as Victoria. The country is predominantly forest withy many trees in and around the country towns. People have been burnt in their own homes trying to protect them and in cars trying to get away.
The TV is covering the fire fighting efforts with updates on the situation as it changes. Today is cooler and light rain has fallen in some places but not enough. Please pray.
Pat Walker.”

My dear sisters, when I read the mail which Donna named is “Australia's heartbreak”, I also have a heavy heart. Please list the urgent request for prayer in your prayers. I really touch by Donna’s last word in her mail--On Christ the solid rock we stand.—Yes, the people should protect under our Lord.
Blessings,

Shu-Wen Chiang
Executive Secretary, ACWC

The ACWC Assembly Them: 1958-2006

2009-02-06T17:34:00.000+08:00

1958: Come, See, Go, Quickly and Tell, HK
1962: Launch out into the Deep, Thailand
1966: Abide in Me—Bear Rich Fruit, Japan
1970: Who is my Neighbor? Indonesia
1974: Fellow Christian, Thailand
1978: Called to Change—Committed to Service, Japan
1982: Co Workers in Christ for Renewal, Indonesia
1986: I Can Do All Things Through Christ, Thailand
1990: In Christ—Freedom, Growth, Hope, Indonesia
1994: Partnership Through Christ in a Changing World. Taiwan
1998: Rejoice, Reclaim, Response, Thailand
2002: Restore, Reconcile, Rejoice, Korea
2006: Celebrating the Legacy, Visioning the Future, Living the Jubilee, Malaysia

No Office hours from 24 Jan.- 01 Feb.

2009-01-23T15:23:00.001+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. CO. members:

Happy 2009 Lunar New Year to all of you.
All Taiwanese, HK people and Chinese will celebrate the Lunar New Year Holiday from this weekend. The Eve is 25 January and the New Year Day is 26 January. To us, it is the most important holiday in the whole year. Every Taiwanese/Chinese will go back to her/his hometown for a family gathering. This year, in Taiwan, we will have a 9-day holiday from 24 January (Saturday) to 01 February (Sunday).
I will spend the holiday with my family and church members. Therefore the ACWC Taipei Office will be closed during the holiday. See you on 02 February (Monday).
Blessings,

Shu-Wen Chiang

The Meeting on 07-09 Jan. 2009 for Myanmar

2009-01-13T15:54:00.003+08:00

The ACWC President--Nareeboon and the ACWC Ex. Sec.-- Shu-Wen met the ACWC Myanmar members-- Zo Hming and Naw Paw Gaw on 07-09 January 2009 in Bangkok, Thailand to continue the project in Nargis affected areas in Myanmar. The details of conclusion will be presented in the coming ACWC Newsletter later.Please remember your sisters and brothers in Myanmar.

Welcome to the New ACWC National Body in Nepal: ACWC-Nepal

2008-12-31T13:43:00.000+08:00

Since the ACWC decided to change the national Body in Nepal from the Bible Society to another ecumenical body in Nepal, the ACWC appreciates it that the NCC Nepal and YWCA Nepal have been working together with the ACWC after the ACWC Ex. Sec. Shu-Wen visited Nepal in January 2008. After that visitation, the NCC Nepal sent the Vice President as an observer to join the ACWC Jubilee Anniversary and the ACWC Gen. Co. meeting in May 2008 in Taiwan. On 24 November 2008, the ACWC Secretariat Office received an excited update from Nepal about the ACWC-Nepal being formed:

“2008/11/24
Dear Shu-Wen,
Greetings from Nepal
The initial meeting of the ACWC Nepal, was held on November 15, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. at the YWCA's office and I, Bishnu Rai, explained about the ACWC. We all agreed to establish the ACWC Nepal committee in order to start the activities of ACWC Nepal.
First of all, we formed the committee of ACWC Nepal as follows:
1. Ms. Bishnu Rai, Council Representative-- ywca@wlink.com.np
2. Ms. Draupadi Rokaya, General Secretary of YWCA Contact Person-- ywca@wlink.com.np
3. Ms. Ishwori Shrestha, Member
4. Ms. Jyoti Shrestha, Member
Therefore, this committee will work as the network with the YWCA. We hope this committee will work according to the Constitution of ACWC. The committee also recommends Ms. Draupadi Rokaya as contact person.
Yours sincerely,
Ms. Bishnu Rai”

It is not easy to start a new Committee in a new member country. Nepal really needs our support and prayers. Please send your welcome to ACWC-Nepal and present your support to Nepal.

Ms. Bishnu Rai (left) and Ms. Draupadi Rokaya (right)

Different Greetings on the Same Day in Different Years

2008-12-11T14:38:00.000+08:00

2008/12/11
My dear ACWC members and friends:
The ACWC Secretariat Office sends warm greetings to you for Christmas and New Year's from Taiwan. The ACWC October-December 2008 Newsletter will be sent out to you on 26 December 2008.
Some of you have already shared your bountiful life in this year with us by different ways at the end of 2008. From the updates, we can read the messages about how the members celebrated the ACWC Day. The ACWC has presented the 50 ACWC Anniversary Celebration and Seminar to all of you this year. It is a kind of blessing to us that we can celebrate the FLC Jubilee in 2006 and the ACWC Anniversary in 2008.The ACWC Scholars sent their greetings to us. From the letters of thanks from those scholars, we can see the young women have been educated well through the support of the ACWC.
When we look back on this year, we remember how Nepal has become more democratic than before and the Christians there can open the doors of churches to join the communities' activities. We are happy to announce that the ACWC-Nepal has been formed. We still have a lot of worries and concerns about the world--the terrible attack which happened in November 2008 in Mumbai, India/ the political crisis in Thailand/ the Hindu attacks on the Christians in Orissa, India. Our life and the lives of the world was woven together in the lines of sorrow and joy. When we enjoy the happy times, we praise our Lord for His blessings. When we face the plight of hard times, don’t forget that we still have the promises of hope from our Lord.

May God Bless us and lead us to face a new year.

Your sister in Christ,

Shu-Wen Chiang,
ACWC, Ex. Sec.

A True Star Has Fallen—Think about Ester

2008-11-25T15:41:00.000+08:00

2008/11/24
Dear Ms. Ester Dalisay’s family and the members of the CWUP:
I write on behalf of the Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC.
It was with a great sense of loss that the ACWC heard of Ms. Ester Dalisay's passing away.
The ACWC want to let you know that you have our deepest sympathy; our hearts are truly saddened.
We still remember every detail when Ester stayed with us. Her clever way of thought which helped us to clarify the complicated situation when the ACWC amended the Constitutions at the 12th ACWC Assembly in 2002 in Korea. We have expressed our appreciation for Ester’s excellent leadership during the group discussion at the 13th ACWC Assembly in 2006 in Malaysia. Relying on Ester’s help we could finalize the action plan for the ACWC Jubilee seminar in 2008 in Taiwan.
Ester was more than just a wonderful person; she was always so kind and considerate to us that we always welcomed seeing her at every gathering. Ester will always remain within our hearts, and we have included Ester’s family and the CWUP in our prayers. May God give you strength.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you.
With our deepest sympathy,
Shu-Wen Chiang,
Executive Secretary, the ACWC

*. Our dear Philippines National Representative, Ms. Ester Dalisay, CWUP President, passed away on 13 November 2008 due to advanced cancer in her abdominal area. We can pray for her father, brothers and sisters and the rest of the De Los Santos (that's Ester's maiden name) family during this time of their bereavement over the loss of a loved one. Interment was scheduled for 2:00 PM, 16 November at her hometown in Plaridel, Bulacan--north of Metro Manila.

Pray for Ester and her family

2008-11-21T15:06:00.000+08:00

My dear ACWC sisters:
Greetings from the ACWC Secretariat Office.
I received the sorrow update from the CWUP about our Philippines National Representative, Ms. Ester Dalisay on 13 November 2008:
“Dear Shu-Wen,
With a heavy heart, I am saddened to relay the news that our dear Ester Dalisay, CWUP President, passed away today due to advanced cancer in her abdominal area. Let's pray for her father, brothers and sisters and the rest of the De Los Santos (that's Ester's maiden name) family during this moment of their bereavement over the loss of a loved one. Interment is scheduled this Sunday at 2PM at her hometown in Plaridel, Bulacan--north of Metro Manila.
Many blessings,
Zeny”
Please remember our sister and her father.
With prayers and love.
Shu-Wen

The Official Title of the 14th ACWC Assembly

2008-10-18T19:09:00.000+08:00

The 14th Quadrennial General Assembly
of Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC
Asian Women Moving Forward:
Non-Violent World
New Earth
Life in its Fullness

07-12 October, 2010, Indonesia

The Visitation to the Nargis Affected Areas in Myanmar

2008-10-17T11:35:00.000+08:00

by Shu-Wen Chiang, ACWC
After Cyclone Nargis struck the southwestern corner of Myanmar--the Irrawaddy delta region and Yongon (2-3 May 2008), until the situation in Myanmar was stable, did the ACWC Executive Secretary start her visitation to the Nargis affected areas on 06-10 July. Before the visitation, I had the chance to join the CCA meeting- in Bangkok - the special meeting for the CCA member churches and councils from Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Australia to determine their future plans. At the meeting we decided that the ACWC would focus on missions for women and children. According to the ACWC working plan, the Women's Committee of the MCC is the only channel for ACWC contacts in Myanmar. All of the applications from Myanmar should be endorsed by the current ACWC National Representative in Myanmar. This understanding was also accepted by the General Secretary of the MCC, Mr. Saw Shioe Lin.
Based on the special situation in Myanmar, it was inconvenient to report the details of my visitation then and there. But I can tell people that the churches and the NGOs already tried their best to work together with the Myanmar people.
I am especially glad that our Myanmar members can point out the real needs in the affected areas. They pay attention to the pregnant women (the women who lost husbands are a priority) in the affected areas. Why do many pregnant women need to be cared for? In rural areas, it is very usual for one family to raise 7 to 9 children.
When I was in Yongon, we spent two days to discuss the future plans. So far we have 2 draft steps:
The first step: Our Myanmar members will continue the current program—taking care of the pregnant women until they deliver their babies. At this moment, the MCC is promoting trauma healing and consultation in the affected areas.
The second step: Select the poorest families to give them financial support and economical training to help them be economically independent.
The whole budget is collected from Taiwan Churches. In December, the ACWC President--Nareeboon and I will meet the Myanmar members in Thailand to evaluate the programs in Myanmar.

CIRCLE OF PRAYER XIX--Joining Our Hearts in Prayer”

2008-10-17T10:18:00.000+08:00

Circle of Prayer is a meditation booklet published every two years by the International Committee for the Fellowship of the Least Coin (ICFLC) to “reaffirm prayer as the vital element of the FLC.” It was started in 1962 as a meditation guide by the women of Hong Kong for use as prayer is offered and the least coin is set aside. Since then Circle of Prayer has been an important part of FLC focused on different themes approved by the ICFLC.
The theme of the Circle of Prayer 2009 Vol. XIX is “Joining Our Hearts in Prayer”.
Introduction to the theme:
We are part of God’s community of believers. We are sisters created in a beautiful diversity and tapestry of skin tones, hair and eye colors, size and shapes. But within each of us there is a heart beating, giving life to our bodies.

Community comes as we reach out in love---as we extend ourselves through caring and embracing one another in a common bond of love and acceptance, hope and bearing each others burdens, giving and receiving emotional and spiritual support. This special community connected through the Circle of Prayer brings us together and provides a sense of belonging despite the individual circumstances or the many miles that may separate us.

Jesus calls us into reconciling ministries through his examples of blessing young children. He celebrated their giftedness and upheld their worth. As the child gave the loaves and fishes the gift was acceptable and more than enough. No gift is too small in God’s community. The woman at the well was treated with respect and Jesus recognized her as one capable of giving. He did not require proof of righteousness or worth, he served and he prayed.

We join our hearts in prayer for each other and for all our sisters and brothers around the world. Our circle invites everyone in and no one is excluded. May God bless our loving outreach.

By Gail Mengel
National President, Church Women United-USA 2004 - 2008

Possible Texts: a) Jeremiah 29: 11-13 NRSV
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray for me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart.”

b) Philippians 4: 5-7 NRSV
* 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
c. Philippians 1: 3-6 NRSV
3I thank my God every time I remember you, 4constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.
d. Matthew 12: 34b
. . . For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
Suggested Guidelines for Writers of Meditations:
The typewritten meditation is around 500-700 words.
Deadline for sending the meditation to ICFLC office <icflcph@gmail.com> is November 30, 2008
Please send a scanned copy of photo and a brief profile of the writer along with the article by email
That the meditation materials share women’s stories and biblical reflections from the respective regions
Each ICFLC member may facilitate at least 3-5 contributions coming from different countries.
Suggested Format:
Title
Biblical Text
Meditation
Prayer

Pray for Orissa India

2008-09-04T10:35:00.000+08:00

My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:
Since the end of August, the Office has received prayer requests from Jyotsna (the ACWC 2002-2006 National Representative in India) ; from Shanthi (the current ACWC Gen. CO. member), and from Awala, (the ACWC 2002-2006 National Representative in India).
"Churches and Christians have been attacked again in Orissa, India.[Please see the NCCI Web site
http//:www.nccindia] in the sequence of events. Please pray for the Christians who have fled into the forest or jungle for fear of the attacks; they are without food or water. We are worried about their safety and security. The NCCI and all the Churches in India are appealing to the concerned authorities that the Christian community and their property be protected.
The National Council of Churches in India {NCCI} is also appealing to all the Churches and Christians in India to observe September 6th 2008 as a day of prayer for the people in Orissa, and also for the comfort of the threatened and injured people. Some departed people have been burned alive in the attacks.
We appeal to you to join us in solidarity with the victims.
Please send your support to our sisters and brothers in India. Please list their plight in your prayers.
With prayer and love.
Shu-Wen

The Preparation of the 14th ACWC Quadrennial Assembly

2008-08-15T15:11:00.000+08:00

1. Date: Arrive 7 October, Depart 12 October 2010
2. Venue: Indonesia
3. Theme: Asian Women Moving Forward
Sub-themes: Non-violent world/ New Earth/ Life in its fullness
4. Topics for General Assembly:
1) Natural disasters in Asia
2) Ecology and Women
3) Family Violence and Gender Relations
4) Youth and Empowerment
5) Human Trafficking
5. Biblical studies/topics:
The group chose not to focus on this area to prevent the speakers being locked in.
Theme accepted by a majority show of hands.
Suggestions:
Distribute an introductory page of information to the Bible study speakers regarding the theme.
Could use 3 sub-themes for Bible study leader(s)

The brief report of the 3rd Meeting of the 13th Quadrennial of the ACWC Executive Committee, 26-29 May 2008, Taipei, Taiwan

2008-08-08T15:34:00.000+08:00

*. 2008 Accepted scholars:
1. Sukti Peya Das, Bangladesh, for 4 year term
2. Yogarajan Susila, Sri Lanka, for 2 year term
*. 2008 ACWC Assistance Fund
1. Humanitarian assistance to the Sidr affected poor women, Bangladesh, submitted by Gloria Kalpona Sarker. $1,000 USD
2. Kindergarten Class, Cambodia, submitted by Saravy Prak. $3,252 USD
*. The Relationship between the ACWC and Nepal
ACWC is not severing its contact with the Bible Society in Nepal, just the previous representative. It is believed that the association with NCCN will be aligned more to ACWC’s requirements of a national body representing the Christian women of Nepal.
To support the restoration of Nepal with ACWC and welcome the NCCN as the association body between Nepal and ACWC.
*. The Preparation of the 14th ACWC Assembly:
1. Travel costs—2 delegates to be paid in full, 3rd and 4th delegates to be paid half costs
2. Limit total number of participants to 200
3. Date: Arrive 7 October, Depart 12 October. Establish a preliminary timetable for General Committee
4. Venue: Indonesia
*. ACWC Treasurer’s matters
Continue to hold the ACWC account in Japan. Thanks expressed for Japanese sisters and their cooperation in operating this account.
Shu-Wen suggested the Executive Committee invite Pauline to be the treasurer. This suggestion was presented to the General Committee.
*. To consider reviewing the amount held in the Endowment Fund from the Signature Collection for the purpose of releasing more funds for projects and scholarships.
To increase the amount of the Emergency Relief Fund to $500 USD where possible and increase the budget amount to $2,000 USD, to be reviewed annually, and release of the funds is subject to approval by the ACWC Executive Committee officers.
*. Promoting the ACWC-Mongolia: The ACWC and FLC Seminar-workshop in 2009. (The World Day Prayer is invited)
President Nareeboon selected to accompany Executive Secretaries of ACWC and ICFLC.
*. Cooperation with the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) for WEAVE in East Timor after 2009.
To defer follow up of WEAVE Project in East Timor until further consultation has been made with Deaconess Dominica and the CCA, and defer decision to the 2009 ACWC Executive Committee meeting.
Shu-Wen explained a two part consideration for ACWC officers to visit East Timor.
i) Does East Timor still need an ecumenical accompanier?
ii) Are they ready to join ecumenical organisations? Are they independent enough to do this?
*. The ACWC History Book
It will be presented in 2010. There are many missing documents which the former Ex. Sec. (1994-2002) didn’t convey to the current Ex. Sec. The current national representatives will be asked to assist with supplying material for the history book. The budget figure of editing/printing History book is $1,000 USD.
The minutes of archive will be kept by scanned.
*. Clarification and discussion of travel reimbursements for all future meetings.
Reimbursement of travel expenses will be paid for: 1) Economy air fare from and to country represented. 2) Taxes. 3) Visa fee. 4) Any necessary overnight accommodation in conjunction with a connecting flight, but receipts for this additional cost must be presented.
If a member country has financial problems then assistance can be discussed.
Travel insurance is a personal expense and will not be reimbursed by ACWC. ‘ACWC and its officers will take due care to ensure the safety of participants during this meeting. ACWC and its officers shall not be liable for any injuries, illness, damage, loss or delay howsoever caused to the participants and/or their belongings whilst in transit and during the length of this meeting.’
If local travel expenses and travel insurance can be borne by the national body it would be appreciated.
*. Set up a team to amend the ACWC Constitution at the General Committee
Normally, but not always, every 8 years the ACWC Constitution is studied by a team and any proposed changes are presented at the General Assembly. The team will investigate any changes during the General Committee meeting and report findings to the General Committee.
ACWC is a higher body than the national bodies and the national body should endorse their national representative to conform with the ACWC Constitution.
Team composition—4 to 5 members and beneficial to have one member who is a lawyer.
Suggested members:
• Ester Dalisay—Philippines
• Kyoko Burger—Japan
• Donna Bryan—Australia (to lead meeting)
• Gloria Kalpona Sarker—Bangladesh

2008-08-04T11:12:00.000+08:00

On 20 July, the ACWC Secretariat Office received a prayer request from our Cambodian sisters. They mention the tension between Cambodia and Thailand. They need our prayers for peace.

Please kindly list the situation in your prayer.

“Dear Shu- Wen
Greetings to you from KCCWD in Cambodia.
We would like to share the issue that happens on the Cambodia - Thailand border with you.
The government of Cambodia has agreed to register the Preah Vihear Temple as a heritage of the world.
We would like to request the ACWC to pray for our country. There has been a problem about the Preah Vihea temple, which is on the Cambodia -Thailand border. Because of that issue,
currently there are many Thai and Cambodian soldiers facing to attack each other.
Therefore, we would like to ask all of the General Committee of the ACWC to pray that the Cambodians and Thais stop fighting. We hope that God will reconciliate the two countries to seek love and peace, please pray. Thank you.

God bless you all
Saravy Prak”

The Prayers, Support and Gathering are for Myanmar

2008-07-20T22:07:00.000+08:00

On 2-3 May 2008, Cyclone Nargis struck the southwestern corner of Myanmar--the Irrawaddy delta region and Yongon.

In the beginning, the ACWC Office sent our messages of concern to the ACWC Myanmar National Representative, Ms. Zo Hming. Later we received her updates. Still later, the ACWC former Nat’I Rep., Moo Paw and the ICFLC former Ex. Sec., Dr. Esther Byu also sent their updates to us.

From our Myanmar members’ updates and the News we can understand that damage of disasters are over our imagination. So far 78,000 are dead, 56,000 are missing, and there have been over a million people affected, (Rangoon). The U.N. estimates that 2.4 million people were affected by Cyclone Nargis and has warned that more than 1 million people still need help.
When the ACWC held the 2008 Ex./Gen. Co. meeting in May and June in Taiwan, the ACWC and the ICFLC had the opportunity to release our emergency fund to Myanmar. The money was useful to Myanmar. When Zo Hming went back to her country, she promptly sent updates to me. They focused on taking care of pregnant and post natal women patients in the affected areas. To determine future plans in Myanmar, on 05 July the ACWC Executive Secretary will join the CCA meeting- in Bangkok - the special meeting for CCA member churches and councils from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand. According to the relationship between the CCA and the ACWC, we have cooperated with each other in the areas of mission for women and children. After the meeting in Bangkok, the ACWC Ex. Sec. will visit Myanmar (06-10 July) to discuss more details about the future programs in the affected areas. After the visitation, more details will be sent out to the ACWC members.

Liturgy for Asian Church Women’s Conference (ACWC) Day. 2008

2008-07-07T11:00:00.001+08:00

The Role of Women in Upholding the Dignity and Integrity of All God’s Creation

Processional with the ACWC banner
Preparation – Each member representing denominations and Christian organizations will bring water in pots and to pour it into one large vessel placed in the centre.

Leader: Call to Worship – Psalm 103: 1-5
With all my heart I praise the Lord
And with all that I am I praise his holy name
With all my heart I praise the Lord
I will never forget how kind he has been
The Lord forgives our sins, heals us when w e are sick
And protects us from death
His kindness and love are a crown on our heads
Each day that we live, he provides for our needs
And gives us the strength of a young eagle

Prayer
Almighty God, you are the source and creator of all our life, we praise you and honour you on this special occasion as we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Asian Church Women’s Conference. Gracious Father, we thank you for your faithfulness to us through the past fifty years and for your bountiful blessings on the ACWC through the years. We remember with gratitude all those who have worked tirelessly to carry on the work of the ACWC. Today we worship you, not because it is a duty, but because you have called us to witness to the world our faith in God, to search together for God’s righteousness in our life and words, here and now. For you are the glory and the power, your name be praised now and for ever more. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer – to be sung

Hymn - Great is Thy faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, Oh God my Father
There is no shadow of turning with Thee
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not
As Thou hast been thou forever will be

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness mercy and love

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside

Prayer of Thanksgiving
Leader : Let us thank God for women all over the world who proclaim
Jesus Christ as their Saviour.
Response : We praise your name O Lord
Leader : For redeeming us and for giving us the fellowship of the Spirit and
for enabling us to work together as women
Response : We praise your name O Lord
Leader : In darkness you have been our light, in adversity and temptation a
rock of strength, in our joys the very crown of joy, in our labours
all sufficient rewards
Response : We praise your name O Lord
Leader : For the opportunity you have provided to each one of us women to
be in solidarity with each other.
Response : We praise your name O Lord
Leader : For the gift of the Good News which challenges and transforms
our social, economic, political and cultural structures and
nstitutions.
Response : We praise your name O Lord

Scripture Reading: Old Testament – Esther 4: 8-14
New Testament – Matthew 26: 6- 13

Hymn: Make me a blessing
Out in the highways and byways of life
Many are weary and sad
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife
Making the sorrowing glad

Chorus: Make me a blessing, make me a blessing
Out of my life may Jesus shine
Make me a blessing, O Saviour I pray
Make me a blessing to someone today

Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love
Tell of His power to forgive
Others will trust Him if only you prove
True every moment you live

Give as ‘twas given to you in your need
Love as the Master loved you
Be to the helpless a helper indeed
Unto your mission be true

Voices of Women (in conflict situations)
Voice 1: I am a displaced woman, living in a refugee camp with no basic facilities, no food, no drinking water, no clothing. My children are starving. We have no proper shelter, no proper sanitation and so many health hazards! My husband is no longer with me and I am vulnerable to many forms of abuse. I am so helpless and lonely and I cannot go on living like this!

Voice 2: I am a victim of the tsunami and I still don’t have a proper home to call my own. I have been moving from place to place hoping to have a permanent shelter but there is no one willing to take responsibility for me and my family. Even now with all the natural disasters taking place around me like floods and earth slides, it is just overwhelming for me to live. The fear and trauma I faced after what happened is hard for me to face. I have nightmares almost every night.

Voice 3: My husband is an alcoholic. He comes home drunk every day and beats me up. He does not provide for me and the children. I live each moment in fear not knowing when he will walk in and start beating me. He abuses me sexually too and I am mentally drained out. I don’t know what to do.

Voice 4: Because I am a woman, wherever I go people look down on me. I am not given a place in society and because of the ethnic war that continues in our land I do not want to reveal my identity for fear of harassment, rejection and abduction.

Voice 5: Because I am a woman, I am not considered for employment. Even if I am selected I am paid less than the men are paid. I have to work from morning till night but do not earn enough to feed my family. I also have to work hard at home to take care of my family but I am not even appreciated. It is a thankless task.

Voice 6: I am a woman who is not beautiful. My parents are poor and cannot afford to give a dowry so I remain single. Even during my growing years my father and brothers always got the best of everything. I did not get a proper education. My father educated only the boys. Because I was a girl I didn’t need an education. I always had to care for my younger brothers and sisters while my parents were away at work. My older sister who is married is also suffering because her mother-in-law is ill-treating her as she didn’t bring a dowry. I cannot understand why this has happened to me.

Voice 7: Being a woman in the Church I have to arrange the flowers, pour the tea, help in sales and bazaars. I also teach in the Sunday School and sing in the choir. But when it comes to positions of leadership I am always overlooked because I am a woman.

Prayer of Confession
Leader : O God, we confess that when you asked for our hands that you
might use them for your purpose, we gave them for a moment,
then we withdrew them, for the work was hard.
Response : God forgive us
Leader : You asked for our mouths, to speak out against injustice.
But we gave you a whisper so that we might not be accused.
Response : God forgive us
Leader : You asked for our eyes, to see the pain of women.
But we closed them, for we did not want to see.
Response : God forgive us
Leader : You asked for our life, that you might work through us.
But we gave a small part that we might not get too involved.
Response : God forgive us
All : God forgive us our calculated efforts to serve you only when it is
convenient for us to do so, only in places where it is safe to do so,
and only with those who make it easy to do so.
Creator God forgive us, renew us, send us out as a usable instrument that we might take seriously the meaning of your Cross.
God of mercy, in your Son you offer us unconditional forgiveness for the sins we truly confess. Grant us your pardon for those sins we acknowledge and those we do not have the courage to confront:
When, by our actions we have impeded your will;
When, through our indifference to others we have taken away their hope;
When, through indifference to the obedience of your laws and through weakness we have not responded in the way you wished, either personally or as communities.
Come to us in your mercy, to repair our broken lives and to hasten the hour of full communion among us, in the name of the love of Jesus Christ. Amen

Message

Hymn – I surrender all
All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give
I will ever love and trust Him
In His presence daily live
I surrender all
I surrender all
All to Thee, my blessed Saviour
I surrender all

All to Jesus I surrender
Humbly at His feet I bow
Worldly pleasures all forsaken
Take me, Jesus, take me now

All to Jesus I surrender
Make me, Saviour, wholly Thine
Let me feel the Holy Spirit
Truly know that Thou art mine

All to Jesus I surrender
Lord, I give myself to Thee
Fill me with Thy love and power
Let Thy blessing fall on me

All to Jesus, I surrender
Now I feel the sacred flame
Oh, the joy of full salvation
Glory, glory to His name!
Special Prayer for Your Prayer Partner

Offertory

Dedication of offerings

Closing Hymn

Prayer

All – Proclamation of Good News for Women
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is good news to all the women of the world

To those who are weighed down with guilt, it is forgiveness
To those who sin, it is redemption and renewal
To those who are oppressed, it is freedom
To those who live with fear, it is peace
To those who are despised and rejected, it is kinship with the God who endured the shame of the cross
To those who are bound by culture and tradition, it is emancipation by One who treated women as equals
To those who cannot trust, it is dependence upon One who has proven Himself trustworthy
To those who are lonely, it is friendship with the Best Friend women ever had
To those who are devalued, it is a new identity as joint-heirs of the grace of God
As women who follow the Lord Jesus Christ, we are compelled by His love, commanded by His Word, and gifted by His Spirit to share this Gospel with those who have not seen or heard the salvation of our God.
Therefore,
We will radiate His light into the dark corners of women’s experience;
We will bear His life to those who are dying;
We will share our bread with those who are hungry;
We will declare His promise of resurrection to those who have no hope;
We will proclaim His empowerment to those who are powerless;
We will bring affirmation to those who do not know they are made in the image of God;
We will see with the eyes of Jesus, weep with His tears, hear with His ears, speak with His words, touch with His hands, embrace with His arms, and feel with His heart
Until that great day comes
When every woman, man and child will know the glorious grace and goodness of our God.
Amen

Benediction

*. The Liturgy is composed by the National Association of Church Women ( NACW) in Sri Lanka.

Action Plan

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Action Plan

We members of the Asian Church Women’s Conference and the Bridgebuilders International attending the consultation in Kaohsiung, Taiwan May 29th to May 31st resolve to continue to promote the “Dignity and Integrity of All God’s Creation.”

1. By working to inform our churches and communities about the huge amount of people trafficking especially of women and children taking place in the world today.

2. By challenging attitude and behaviors which deny females the same opportunities, privileges and respect as are given to males.

3. By taking measures to prevent trafficking of women and children during the Olympics or any other international gatherings.

4. By networking with other groups to gain support for anti-trafficking activities.

5. By encouraging each member group of ACWC and Bridgebuilders to organize at least one anti-trafficking workshop or seminar in their local area.

6. By providing educational material to help bridge the gaps between the generations.

7. By initiating educational programmes for young men and women on building better gender relations.

8. By promoting the publishing and distribution of women’s stories and information about women’s church organizations.

9. By initiating programmes which are relevant to the age and situations faced by the younger generation.

The Role of Woman in Upholding the Dignity and Integrity of All God’s Creation

2008-06-03T00:40:00.000+08:00

The Joint Gathering of the Celebration for the ACWC Jubilee and the 5th Bridgebuilders International Consultation

The 2007 ACWC Day in Japan

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By Kyoko Burger, Japan

The ACWC Day in Japan this year was somewhat different from previous years because the liturgy was prepared by the members of our ACWC-Japan, and the theme was “Seeking Christ’s Peace.”

The seminar in Kansai was held on October 12th, and 292 people attended. Rev. Chon Yon Won from the Osaka Korean Church in Japan gave a message on “People Who Make Peace and Reconciliation.” The referenced scripture was Ephesians 2:14-18.

There were two speakers in the seminar in Kansai. One was Dr. Yasuyo Matsumoto who works at Yodogawa Christian Hospital, which was built with donations from the Southern Presbyterian Church in America in 1955. Yodogawa was a very poor area in terms of medication and medical facilities immediately after World War II. But as Japan grew bigger economically, Yodogawa Christian Hospital also grew bigger. Thankfully, they received help when they were small, and now, thankfully also, they are big enough to help smaller hospitals in Bangladesh. They donate to Christian hospitals every year and help train doctors and nurses. Dr. Matsumoto, a gynecologist, actually worked in Bangladesh from 2000 to 2001, and, since that time, she has been back and helped people every year. Her work contribution is not huge, but she is thankful that she is able to work for her neighbors in Asia.

The other speaker was Mr. Hidesuke Kanda who works for Japan International Food for the Hungry (JIFH). He quoted 2 Chronicles 7:14, which says, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and restore their land.” He spoke of how sick society is nowadays. People want to fix blame; some blame terrorists; some blame politicians, some don’t know who to blame. What we need to know is who has the solution. According to 2 Chronicles 7:14, we are told that if we, God’s people--who are called by God’s name, Christians--will humble ourselves and pray and seek God’s face and turn from our sinful ways, then will God answer from heaven and heal our land. One sign of this sick and ailing world is the problem of starvation which is spreading all over the world. About 1 billion people suffer from hunger, and there are 17 people dying every minute; twelve of those are children. Starvation is not just because of lack of food, but also because of developed countries overeating and not sharing with needy/starving countries. Having been to Ethiopia to supply food to the poor, Mr. Kanda speaks from experience.

The seminar in Tokyo was held on November 9th, and 422 people attended. Rev. Kashiko Go gave a message on “Seeking Christ’s Peace.” She talked about how the members of ACWCJ enjoyed the testimony of Suzuko Numata, a Hiroshima storyteller, who has been telling people visiting Hiroshima about the importance of peace and the misery of war. She is an atomic bomb victim, but at the same time, by the fact that she is Japanese, she has recognized herself as a perpetrator of war. Accordingly, she has made apologies while on several international exchange trips to Okinawa, Korea, China, Malaysia and others. Rev. Go talked about the exchange trip which she and ACWCJ members made several years ago to Singapore, where she had found many scars left by the Japanese during the war. With tears in her eyes, she apologized to the church women for what Japan had done to their country. The following year at the 12th ACWC Assembly, she was relieved and happy to hear that the representative of Singapore said, “We have been reconciled through the interchanges.”

Rev. Kim Pilsun from the Korean Christian Church in Japan gave a message using Psalms 144:1-15. Toward the end of the message, she talked about an earlier experience of her father in Japan when he was discriminated against simply because he was Korean. Then she talked about who are our brothers and sisters. She said our brothers and sisters were also foreigners/strangers who live in a foreign country. She quoted Psalms 144:15 which says, “Happy is the nation of whom this is true; happy are the people whose God is the Lord!” She told us that there shouldn’t be any discrimination, any oppression or rejection in a rich country like Japan.

In the afternoon, we enjoyed a special Korean music and dance program. Then two more speakers shared their experiences. The first speaker was Ms. Kaoru Yoshida, a member of the Salvation Army, and also is a member of ACWC-Japan. Having visited and worked in 16 countries, she shared some of her experiences in a Power Point presentation about England, Australia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, China, Papua New Guinea and North Korea. In closing, she talked about Japan and how that on the surface, Japan appears to be rich with high technology. And, while Japan supports other countries economically and with volunteer work, inside its own country, people are in disarray and are treated with indifference, accounting for over 30,000 suicides every year and about 200,000 reported cases of human trafficking.
How can we spread the good news in this country? Ms. Yoshida quoted Ephesians 2:14 which says, “For Christ himself is our peace, who has made the two one, and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.”

The second speaker that afternoon was Ms. Naw Lee Myar from Myanmar Pekon Baptist Church, and she is a 1998 graduate of the Asian Rural Institute in Tochigi, Japan. Eighty-seven percent of the population is Buddhist and four percent are Christian in Myanmar. In 2001, there were 4313 male ministers; of those, 1794 were ordained. There were 1482 female ministers, but only 9 of them were ordained. There is discrimination against women ministers regarding their being ordained, and that may be because, particularly with young ministers who have menstruation periods, they are considered polluted or unclean during those times. For this reason, it is also true that some male members of their congregations don’t accept communion from female ministers. According to Ephesians, “At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ, everything in heaven and on earth, according to his plan.” Ms. Myar said that, since we are God’s people, we have a duty to bring about solidarity, cooperation and unity among churches, communities and even families to fulfill God’s will.At the closing of the meeting, we had a beautiful hymn sung by members of the Myanmar Revival Christian Fellowship. I’m thankful that we were able to hear from different countries and various denominations in these seminars. And I’m also thankful that we have ACWC Day every year where many church women get together and share our concerns, our hopes and our prayers.

The ACWC Jubilee in 2008

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With great pleasure, the ACWC would like to inform you that we will have the celebration of the ACWC Jubilee during the coming ACWC Ex. Co./Gen. Co. meeting in 2008 in Taiwan.
Meanwhile the celebration will be a joint program with the Bridgebuilders International: the Joint Gathering of the Celebration for the ACWC Jubilee and the 5th Bridgebuilders International Consultation. The Theme of the Seminar: The Role of Woman in Upholding the Dignity and Integrity of All God's Creation.

1. Duration:
Ex. Co. Meeting, 26-29 May 2008, Taipei, Taiwan.
Seminar: 30-31 May 2008, Kaoshiung, Taiwan.
Gen. Co. Meeting: 01 -03 June, Kaoshiung, Taiwan.
2. The Host:
The Women's Ministry Committee of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT), Program Secretary, Rev. Ni-Ling Lin, the ACWC Ex. Co. member.
3. Contact information:
1) Contact person in Taiwan:
Ms. Faith Chen, women@mail.pct.org.tw
3, Lane 269, Roosevelt Road, Sec. 3, Taipei, 106 TAIWAN
Tel: 886-2-2362-5282 ext 254 /Fax: 886-2-2363-2669
2) The ACWC Secretariat Office
3, Lane 269, Roosevelt Road, Sec. 3, Taipei, 106 TAIWAN
Tel: 886-2-2366-0775 / Fax: 886-2-2369-9274/ acwc@seed.net.tw

May our Lord bless us with enough energy and wisdom to welcome the Jubilee and coming meeting.

ACWC Today Jan.-Mar. 2008

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The Meeting of Asian Women's Summit

The meeting of Asian Women's Summit was held on 10 March 2008. It was an interfaith meeting in collabora-tion with World Conference of Religions for Peace (New York) and Buddhist organization in Bangkok. The ACWC President, Nareeboon was invited to attend it.

CWUP Welcome the IFCLF Chairperson

The ICFLC Chairperson, Mrs. Jill King visited the Philippines ( 26 Feb. to 04 Mar. 2008 ). Jill came on behalf of the ICFLC to witness the blessing of the new ICFLC Executive Secretary's ( Ms. Cora) office in Union theological Seminary in Cavite.
During Jill's visitation, the ACWC national body in the Philippines--CWUP, had a chance to show her Estrella's house in Tagaytay (Estrella was the ACWC 1998-2002 and 2002-2006 Filipino Nat'l Rep.) They had dinner with her later in a nice restaurant in the Cavite area. The next day, they had a full day with two celebrations: the FLC service in the morning and WDP in the afternoon. Cora Reyes wanted Jill to witness how we celebrated the two events. Of course, World Day of Prayer was more extensively celebrated all over the Philippines during the first Friday of March.

The Different Due Days of the ACWC Programs and Projects

1. For the application of the ACWC Scholarship/ACWC Assistance Fund will be 30 April 2008.
2. For the application of the FLC Grant Fund will be 30 May 2008.
3. For the 2008 meeting in Taiwan:
-Return the registration form by Email: women@mail.pct.org.tw or Fax: 886-2-2362-8096 no later than 29 Feb 2008.
-Please inform Ms. Faith Chen: women@mail.pct.org.tw and the Se-cretariat Office of the ACWC about your schedule of Arrival/Departure in Taiwan by 30 April 2008. Airport pickup will be arranged.
-Send the Travel Expense Applica-tion Form for 2008 ACWC Ex. Co./ Gen. Co. meeting to the ACWC Treasurer by 30 April 2008. The form was already sent to you with this mail.
-Kindly send to the Office by 15 April 2008 your country report or any materials that need to be com-piled in the handbook; otherwise bring your own photocopies (30) for distribution. Please include the interaction with your prayer partner in your report.

The Continuing Support from the GBGM

The ACWC appreciates it that the GBGM continually supports the ACWC programs in 2008. It is indicated for the expense, projects and programs for Cambodia. The report of 2007 to the GBGM is done. I have listed the expense for Cambodia and the items (scholarship, projects fund) we sup-ported in Cambodia in 2007 in the report with photos.

Mongolian Women's Gathering stating from Bible Study

Since the ACWC-Mongolia was formed in 2007, the members have regular meeting. For example, the boarding members are meeting every Monday for Bible study and prayer which brings many issues and chal-lenges us to move forward. Now they are reading the book of ¡§Daniel¡¨. They always remember their prayer partner-Japan at their prayers.

Having the Nice Time with the ACWC Good Friends

Since the ACWC Secretariat Office was set at the PCT Office, we always receive a lot of support from different ways from the PCT, local churches and the missionaries in Taiwan. For ex-ample, Dr. Edward Senner (served in Taiwan for 25 years and retired in 1998 and went back to U.S.A.) and Mr. John E. Geddes (Served in Taiwan for 45 years and retired in 2003 and went back to Canada), and Ms. Carys Humphreys (from Wales, has served in Taiwan almost 25 years) always share their ecumenical experience with the ACWC Ex. Sec. and encourage her to open the vision in mission. In the 6 years, Mr. Geddes is the volun-teer to help Shu-Wen to improve the ACWC official letters and articles. In January 2008, Dr. Senner and Mrs. Janie Senner came back to Taiwan to help the PCT for half year. In March, Mr. John E. Geddes and Mrs. Betty Geddes came back to Taiwan for one-month visitation. On 6 March, it was the privilege of the ACWC to treat them the lunch to present our appreciation to them.

About ACWC

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Background of ACWC

In 1956, the Presbyterian Church Women of the USA invited churchwomen from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe to their Assembly at Purdue University. At this meeting in Stony Point, many Asian church women leaders met for the first time, and they realized how little they knew about their own Asian situations. Miss Felicia Sunderal from India challenged other Asian women delegates to have as big a meeting as the one at Purdue.

With this discovery of a new Asian selfhood, there was an urge for ecumenical fellowship among the Asian Church Women. It was their prayerful wishes and beautiful dreams to have a fellowship gathering in Asia arranged by Asian sisters. God listened and heard their prayers and made it possible to have a conference in Hong Kong on November 12, 1958.

Since then, ACWC has continued to meet every four years. These women have been bound or sheltered too long by tradition and culture and have taken the role of the second-class citizens at home, in church and in society. Currently, in some countries, the women still struggle with the above plight. The ACWC has been a supportive fellowship in Christ. These women can reach out and share what is most dear in their hearts with their sisters in faith.

Vision of ACWC

The Asian Church Women’s Conference envisions itself as a full partner with individuals and organizations that are dedicated to the enabling of women and the whole of humankind in the struggle towards the creation of a society where there is more meaningful peace, justice and love.

As an organization, ACWC envisions Asian women in unity become more capable of discovering themselves, and realizing their gifts and potentials, they contribute more forceful and sustained efforts towards the development of a stronger family and community, rooted in faith and sustained by the Holy Spirit so the Shalom may finally be attained.

As an advocate of women’s rights and welfare, ACWC sees itself working beyond the boundaries of culture and creed, color and race so that stronger regional networks of women leaders and organizations may emerge that together and in unity recognize in action their role and responsibility in the family, the society and the church.

Address: PROK Office Building, Academy House, San 76, Insu-dong, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea 142-714

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