COMMISSIONER Nancy Roberts (World Secretary for Women's Ministries) joined representatives from Salvation Army territories, commands and regions across Europe for a conference attended by members of the European Anti-Human Trafficking Network in Chișinău, the capital of Moldova. The commissioner was accompanied by Colonel Neil Webb (Under Secretary for Europe, International Headquarters).
Having accepted the traditional Moldovan welcome of bread and grape juice, which was shared with all the delegates, Commissioner Roberts brought a greeting on behalf of General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (World President of Women's Ministries). In her keynote message she spoke about some of the international issues which lead to and result from human trafficking. She also shared some of the initiatives conducted by The Salvation Army worldwide.
Subjects covered during the conference included 'Mutual Resourcing' and 'Bilateral Cooperation'. A training and information session was also presented by the La Strada movement – representatives of which are based in Chișinău – and delegates received additional training to recognise signs of trafficking. Theological Reflection on the whole subject was led by Majors Anne Read and Paul Kingscott (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland). At the conclusion of the conference delegates were invited to consider the two top anti-trafficking priorities for their territory/command/region in the coming year.
Throughout the gathering, Commissioner Roberts listened to presentations and participated in group work.
On Sunday the commissioner, with Colonels Rodney and Wendy Walters (territorial leaders, Eastern Europe Territory), divisional leaders and network delegates, travelled 45 minutes into the Moldovan countryside to share worship at Orhei Corps (church).
In her Bible message, the visiting World Secretary for Women's Ministries spoke about Jesus being aware of people that others might just bypass or ignore. She talked about an occasion when he healed a woman on the Sabbath, despite opposition. She explained that followers of Christ should be available at all times to offer help and hope to people in need.
A ready response at the mercy seat followed her words of challenge.
The meeting closed with the rousing song 'I'll Go in the Strength of the Lord' before corps members and guests joined together for a time of fellowship and refreshments.
Report by IHQ Communications Section
