Women's Conference Closing

Dear Readers-

Today we had an incredible experience documenting the WWM conference on IGL's campus. We heard some riveting talks by two of our moms. Lisa spoke on Spiritual Maturity and Discipline, and Kathy spoke on Finishing Well based on 2 Tim 4. Prati Stephens, one of the founders of WWM, gave a powerful talk which ended with many women coming up to the front of the auditorium through an incredible movement of the Holy Spirit. Seeing the dedication and passion of these women was an powerful experience. What was interesting (and for us English speakers, a great blessing) was that Prati spoke through translation from English to Tamil. Prati's native language is Hindi, the dominant language of India. Tamil, one of the languages of the south, is actually very different from Hindi. Hindi is derived from Sanskrit, and is from the Indo-Aryan language family. Tamil is from the Dravidian family. And - for Prati - learning Tamil is not on her list of top priorities. She is currently pursuing her third Master's Degree (this time in Ministry). Incredible woman.  

There was a very damaging landslide on the opening day (Tuesday), causing many women leaders to miss the inaugural ceremony. Still they came, their garments filling the conference center with color, adding to the feeling of joy already present within the building. With rapt attention they focused on the speakers, taking notes and drinking in the treasured content that would equip and empower them to be a light for Christ in their villages. Aged young through old, some with small children, others with siblings or classmates, these women represent a unprecedented movement of the Body of Christ in India. Through this conference, they are challenged, equipped, and motivated to bring Christ to the nations.

It was a privilege to witness such a powerful movement.

Prior to the WWM conference, we met with the college students to do some scripture reading and teaching. Kyle taught on God and Love being the only two things that were in the beginning and endure after all things have passed. Heavy emphasis was placed on God showing love to us through the giving of a gift just as we show love to our families by giving gifts. Pray that this gospel will hit home in the hearts of the students who do not know Christ. Pray they will come to faith in Him.

Upon our return from the WWM conference, we had a quick lunch and then talk turned to one of the most important trip topics: SHOPPING. Kyle and I are used to busy markets in other countries, so the crowded streets of Salem were familiar to us. However, we went to shops with fixed prices, so no bargaining took place. We stopped by two clothing stores; our moms got punjabi's (long tunics over loose pants) while Kyle and I did some quick shopping for people back home. We were expertly guided by an IGL worker named Jessie, who helped translate and explain Indian dress for us. 

80% of the population of India (currently around 1.3 billion) live in places like Salem. That statistic made much more sense after shopping today! The amount of people walking through the streets was staggering. There was a Hindu festival taking place, as well as the Muslim festival Eid [Mubarak] (I think...), which celebrates the end of Ramadan. The streets were crammed with festival observers and shoppers alike. Many bells and chants added to the din of car horns and rapid Tamil. It was exhausting. 

Tomorrow we head for a church dedication with our moms, and then we are attending a wedding in the evening. Yes, you heard right, a wedding. One of the girls who grew up through IGL programs is getting married, and we were invited to attend. Since the bride and groom are Christian there won't be a typical Hindu week-long format, but I'm expecting some Indian culture nonetheless. I guess there's a first time for everything! Stay Tuned.