There has been hope and burning desires for the multitalented Officers and Women Salvationists from all over India to come together in one place, share and transfer their skill to each other, sharing skills of workmanship and fellowship. The skill that would strengthen and benefit the women ministry individually and as a congregation in the Corps and Division/Territory. Women have the potentiality of contributing their skills to draw more people within the ministry and extend the circle of fellowship beyond the corps and at the same time earn something for the family.
The good Lord, through our leaders, finally made that dream become a reality when the “Exchange of Skill” programme was finally held at The Salvation Army, Red Shield Guest House, Kolkata during 14-16 April 2018 in which 18 delegates from 6 Indian Territories attended. The presence, encouragement and contributions of Commissioner Alistair Venter, International Secretary, and Commissioner Marieke Venter, ZSWM, for South Asia Zone graced the programme as the guest of honour, Chief Guest and Chief Resource Persons respectively, cheered up the programme from the very start. Welcome speech on behalf of the India National Secretariat was given by Lieut. Colonel Baby Sarojini Dasari, Administrator and Chaplain while Major Rebek Lalrohnuni, Secretary for WACI was the main host facilitated all the programmes.
Delegates were very much enlightened by the keynote address given by Commissioner Marieke Venter ZSWM. They were encouraged to use their God given talent and hands wisely and carefully, for their hands are the most useful tool in the world. Whatever things they are to learn has to be shared, to benefit the people they worked with, in the corps and divisions. The presence of Lieut. Colonel Daniel Raju Dasari, National Secretary and Major Jashiben Kristi, Editor and Communication Secretary of the War Cry was also warmly felt.
The exchange of skill commenced with great excitement and enthusiasm, the women prepared themselves for future ministries by equipping themselves by acquiring new skills:
ICT delegates presented Pot painting and Hand embroidery.
IET who presented making of hair accessories and arranging of flowers for decoration.
INT demonstrated how to make a Star, Phenyl & Surf.
ISWT demonstrated creative worship, cookery show and games for mental relaxation.
Flower making, Nails and thread making was presented by ICT.
Making Necklace with earing quelling, wall hanging with net, Light Lamp using various kinds of spoons were displayed by ISET.
IWT followed by displaying the skill of Woollen mat making embroidery.
The skill training was closed by the displaying of incense stick making which was performed by IET.
The presence of God all through the programme and of the International & National Leaders, cheerful participation of delegates in 'Exchanging of Skills' makes the programme a success. To God be the Glory.
Reported by Rebek Lalrohnuni, Secretary for WACI, India National Secretariat, Kolkata
