Aglow Rockingham's 35th Anniversary
On 2nd November 2024, many people travelled from near and far to celebrate our branch's 35th anniversary.
We were honoured to receive a message from our new National Leader, Elizabeth West, via video. She extended her greetings and expressed gratitude for our ministry's dedication and impact over the past 35 years. Elizabeth also encouraged us to both reflect on the past and look forward to the future.
The celebration commenced with a beautiful, moving time of worship. The atmosphere was filled with a deep sense of His Presence as individuals opened their hearts, feeling free to worship in whatever manner they felt led and comfortable.
We were blessed to receive a wonderful, informative, and encouraging message from Sue Da Silva, one of our WA Mentors. Her message included the significance of a 35-year anniversary, traditionally celebrated with coral, jade, and emerald. Sue related and shared interesting biblical insights about the number 35 and reminded us of our identity as earthen vessels, containing the treasure of God within us, as referenced in 2 Corinthians 4:7. She also brought to light the story of Jabez, a lesser-known character from the Bible, found in 1 Chronicles 4:10. His story served as a great encouragement to us all, particularly as we contemplate the future. Jabez dared to ask God for more, and God granted his request. Sue encouraged us to join in the prayer of Jabez, as Aglow branches and individuals, trusting that God might do the same for us.
A PowerPoint presentation of cherished memories was shown, accompanied by the song "Goodness of God." Many of us felt emotional as we reflected and saw God's faithfulness over the years.
Our branch has been a devoted supporter of the local women’s refuge, the Lucy Saw Centre, for well over ten years, contributing in various ways. Attendees were invited to bring toiletries or over-the-counter medications for donation. The response was overwhelming, filling many baskets to support ladies in need. Anne Moore, the CEO of the Lucy Saw Centre, was an invited guest at our event. She provided an insightful update on the refuge and the current domestic violence situation in our area. Her presence and message underscored the ongoing need for support and the impact of our contributions to the refuge.
After Anne spoke, beautiful Olivia Mulumba shared her story of fleeing from her husband with her two very young daughters eight years ago. Olivia shared her brave journey, and everyone was captivated and moved. She met Anne at the refuge, who then introduced her to our Aglow branch, which she began attending soon thereafter. God’s hand upon Olivia was evident to all. Olivia and her girls are now also a part of my church family, and we are close friends. We are grateful to God to have been part of her journey. Olivia’s heartfelt thanks to Anne, Aglow, the church, and the community deeply moved us all. She touchingly mentioned that she and her daughters "would not be here today without all the love and support they received from everyone."
The day was also a special occasion to honour and acknowledge the contributions of past Presidents. Mrs. Margaret Pendlebury, our branch’s founding president, Mrs. Barbara Green, and the late Mrs. Lyle Sangalli were fondly remembered and celebrated. Margaret’s first President’s Pen was read aloud, with her declaration, “Indeed, Jesus is Lord over Rockingham,” deeply resonating with us. Words of appreciation were extended to both Margaret and Barbara, and they were then presented with flowers. They joined me in cutting the beautiful celebratory cake made by Narelle Fulwood.
The event highlighted our shared journey, God's goodness, and the importance of looking forward with faith. As we move forward, we are filled with gratitude for the past and hopeful for the future, trusting in God and joining in the prayer of Jabez, asking Him to expand our territories and bless us abundantly. Together, we believe we will see the goodness of God manifest in our lives, the Aglow ministry, and our communities.
“For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.” - Psalm 100:5
Sincere thanks to everyone who attended. Also, a huge thank you to Leah Gordon and Jeanette Sullivan, who are on the team with me, for all they did to help make this day what it was. It was so greatly appreciated.
“I thank my God every time I remember you all.”- Philippians 1:3
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