Meeting wtith Judy Mbugua

written by Angela Kerwin

After months of good intentions, I just recently began attending WOGA meetings. I had heard a lot about the incredible work that WOGA supports from some friends and Cheryl, the director of WOGA LA. Looking back, I cannot recall what was on my schedule that seemed more important than going to WOGA meetings, whereas, the meaningful experiences I've had at WOGA will not soon be forgotten. At the initial get-together we heard from Cheryl about her experience teaching in India and I was inspired and encouraged hearing a number of women share from their hearts. I found myself eager for our next gathering, which was a brunch on March 6th at Silverlake Community Church. At the meeting we heard amazing stories from Judy Mbugua, the founder and director of Pan African Christian Women Alliance (PACWA).

Cassandra opening with prayer and a warm welcome

Judy's testimony was inspiring, encouraging and left me feeling convicted and renewed. I have heard many messages from both women and men leaders in my life but something about Judy's testimony touched my heart in a way I am not sure that I can explain (but I will try).

Judy's mother and sisters

Judy began by sharing a brief overview of some of her work across Africa and then dug deep into the story of how Moses was saved by Pharaoh's daughter in Exodus Chapters 1 -2. The story showed how many women, with different responsibilities, contributed to save Moses and ultimately the nation of Israel. These women were following God's call without realizing the long-term impact of their actions.

Our fearless leader, Cheryl Lovejoy

Similarly, Judy and her various partners throughout Africa are following Gods calling and it's having tremendous impact across the continent of Africa. Judy started HomeCare Spiritual Fellowship, she is a constant presence on the radio and television, works to feed and educate children, is directly involved with training programs for women to learn sewing skills that will empower them and their families, and she recently helped to purchase a large piece of property that is used as a retreat for women to go when they need a respite from the hectic city. She spoke about how the Lord is at work in all of these things.

Judy also shared inspiring stories about some of the women that her ministry, HomeCare Spiritual Fellowship, is helping. How widowed women, with HIV/AIDS come to her devoid of joy and full of sorrow but how Christ is using this ministry to transform their lives and give them a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Judy spoke to us of a woman who came to her, pregnant with her tenth child, who was looking to have an abortion. After finding out that this woman worked as a prostitute and earned just $40/month, Judy agreed to compensate the woman if she kept the child and stopped working as a prostitute. Drawn to Judy and her willingness to help, the woman began attending a weekly meeting where they prayed and learned about Jesus. Judy and her friends were able to raise the $40 each month through fasting lunch on Thursdays and not paying to have their hair braided. This story made me think of the small things in my life that I could do that when added up, could have a significant impact on others.

Along with her message of renewal and hope, she also shared with us some of the challenges she faces each day, such as obtaining the basic necessities needed to serve and minster to the over 1 million people living in the Kibera slums. Currently, her ministry is able to feed 300 children and educate 75 but she hopes to be able to send all 300 to school one day.

I was encouraged when Judy acknowledged an obstacle I've struggled with for a long time. This concept of feeling so overwhelmed by all the darkness, sin and need in the world that I don't know how to begin... and so I don't (begin). I know this isn't a great strategy but I found myself stuck until I heard Judy quote Mark 14:8 , "She did what she could". This verse is referencing the woman who poured oil on Christ's head despite its cost and the anger this instigated in others. In the end, God was pleased and replied to them, "She did what she could". This is such a simple verse but one that has transformed the way I think about my life and service. Judy asked us all if we are doing what we can to serve. This passage made everything clearer, more manageable and less overwhelming. Maybe I can't do everything but if I do what I can then this is pleasing to God and that feels good to know.

Beautiful jewelry for sale by our fabulous partners, Raven and Lily (Cheryl is wearing a similar necklace in her picture if you look closely)

Perhaps this is why I am drawn to WOGA because it offers me a place where I can learn "real" ways that I can be of use. I can hear stories and testimony from other Christian women and how their small (or large) actions are helping to transform lives, communities and ultimately our world.

Judy's testimony was inspiring and I was moved to tears during parts of her talk. Whenever I feel down or start to agonize about a small worry in my life, I think of the women here and around the world who are suffering with HIV and AIDS or who don't have enough food to feed their children. I pray for forgiveness and offer praise to the Lord for taking care of me. I am now looking forward to taking to heart Judy's call to action by doing "everything I can" to serve. I am not sure what this all looks like, but I learned from Judy that God will be faithful and reveal His will for me if I ask.

Transformational Love

written by Angela Kerwin

WOGA LA met on February 16th to hear from our very own, Cheryl Lovejoy, and her experience travelling to India to teach emerging church leaders about the importance of women in ministry and in leadership. Over the summer, many of us were blessed to participate in a bible study/book discussion on the incredible book, Why Not Women, written by Loren Cunningham, David Joel Hamilton and Janice Rogers. Cheryl led us through a two month study where we read scripture and delved into what it means to use the gifts we have been given to glorify God. For many women, these gifts may indeed include teaching and leadership within the church. The study was rich in prayer, reflection and conversation. Needless to say, it was eye-opening and transformative as we considered God’s view of women in the church and in leadership roles within the church.
Through Global Action's "GLOMOS" (Global Module Studies Program), Cheryl took these messages with her to India where instead of a two month bible study, she had three days each in two locations. She reported back that the material was warmly received and very timely. A church leader traveling to India from a country where the church meets "underground" shared that his pastor was just beginning to teach that women should not lead. Cheryl shared with us the story of Inrani, an upper caste Indian woman. Her husband was a successful international business man and so they were accustomed to moving among the wealthy and powerful. After her husband's early death, and with their children grown and living far away, Inrani found herself alone. It was during this period of solitude that her eyes were opened to the life and struggle of the men and women who worked in and around her home. As she developed friendships with them, Inrani learned that the woman who swept the street in front of her home had breast cancer and could not pay for treatment. Inrani knew that God would want her to help this woman and so she paid for the cancer treatment. Inrani and her maid remain close friends to this day despite the cultural pressures of the caste system. We also heard the remarkable message of forgiveness and love through the story of Amos. Amos’ father was killed during his region's fight to become an independent state. His father's death was devastating and Amos’ mission in life was to avenge his father’s death. Amos carried this hatred in his heart until one day he heard the message about loving your enemy. This concept of forgiveness and love had a profound impact on Amos and soon he was able to forgive and move forward. Amos now pastors eight churches, many of which are only accessible by foot. Amos also developed other remarkable talents and he holds a black belt in martial arts, is a medicinal healer, is an accomplished musician and writer.

There were many incredible stories of encouragement, healing and transformation that Cheryl was able to share with us. One final story that was particularly touching and is directly linked to the mission of WOGA was the testimony of two women from Kolkata. The sex trade is rampant in this city and the red light districts are large and active. Many of the women who work in this area have been forced into sexual slavery against their will. These two women are bringing the light of Christ to this area working with and praying for the women. They hope to one day rent a room/house in the red light district where they can share the love of Christ with these women while also providing them with a safe place. We will continue to pray that this happens soon!

Cheryl’s trip sounded amazing. It is encouraging and inspiring to know that God is working miracles in every corner of the globe. He does not place importance on class/caste, status, gender or ethnicity - He loves all of His children and it is clear that He has given each of us gifts to use for His glory.

"Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast"

written by Sarah Wauterlek

As a newcomer to LA, as well as to WOGA, I wasn’t sure what to anticipate when I walked through the door to Cheryl’s warm and inviting home that cool Wednesday evening. What I found was a group of women who were brought together by their common interest in helping women around the world.

I was initially met by Lori, one of the designers at Raven + Lily, who graciously welcomed me in. Cheryl, the founder of WOGA: LA, greeted me soon after and introduced me to the group.

The smell of homemade food filled the home and the genuine smiles on the women’s faces warmed my heart. I placed my potluck contribution down on the table. Soon after we filled our plates, as well as our stomachs. Sitting around the dinning room table, some of us having never met, we shared pieces of our lives together. It felt comfortable, encouraging, and right.

After dinner we moved into Cheryl’s living room and Lori made chai tea for everyone. The agenda for the rest of the night was to pray for the impossible to be made possible through Christ. We were to each share a seemingly impossible prayer request for women in the world, as well as, a personal one.

Cheryl began by sharing about her recent trip to SE Asis. Although there are concerns for the people there, she was inspired by the joy and hope that she encountered in the women. She asked us to pray for the country and specifically for a young girl Cheryl had met on a previous trip who told her that she was worried for her future. She had good reason to be too because her parents have now sold her into prostitution.

One by one the group shared their prayer requests. There were prayer requests for the war in Afghanistan, a cure for HIV/Aids, Christ's love to spread in India, the rape happening in Congo, forced prostitution in Cambodia, the elections in Burundi next year, the homeless women at Hope Gardens in LA, for ten very specific women in India to come to know God's love for them and for local women who are struggling with unemployment, divorce, and raising children alone. It was inspiring to hear how different issues and different cultures were placed on our individual hearts to be brought to a collective group. It was also encouraging to pray to the God of possible for what we feels impossible to us.


In addition to the prayer time, future events for WOGA LA were discussed. Ideas for panel discussions, a retreat, and a study group to explore the issue of human slavery were brought forward. Please keep posted for details.

At the end of an evening saturated with discussions of sobering matter, I somehow found myself feeling uplifted, inspired, encouraged, and energized. In the ugliness of the world issues brought up that night, I saw the beauty of unity among these women. God brings us together to serve because we can do so much more together than we could ever do alone. I felt empowered and fulfilled. I’m anxious to meet again and I would encourage anyone who is at all interested to attend the next meeting.

"It is not enough for us to say: 'I love God,' but I also have to love my neighbor.
 St. John says that you are a liar if you say you love God
 and you don't love your neighbor.
 How can you love God whom you do not see,
if you do not love your neighbor whom you see, whom you touch, with whom you live?

" Mother Teresa

Launch of WOGA: Seattle!

WOGA: Seattle launched on Sunday, October 11 with lots of enthusiasm and a desire to connect women who are concerned about justice issues facing women globally.

The meeting began with a showing of "The Girl Effect" video (look for it on You Tube) which demonstrates the beneficial domino effect of dedicating resources to girls.

One of the women in the group is the Mom of a woman in WOGA:LA. The woman from WOGA: LA had come up to us earlier in the year to say she thought her Mom would love WOGA. At that time, there was no WOGA: Seattle. How neat that we were able to reconnect with her and that she joined us at our first meeting!

Welcome to WOGA, WOGA: Seattle - we know great things are ahead for you!

WOGA North America Chapter Leaders Meet in Colorado Springs

Leaders from five of the eight North America Chapters of WOGA met together in gorgeous Colorado Springs (home of Women of Global Action's Executive Office) to cheer each other on and share ideas for the coming year. States represented included: Washington, Colorado, Texas, Florida and California.

Cathy Schmidt, WOGA: Tampa Bay's leader, shared with us how she'd gotten excited about what God is doing through women across the world. Before starting her chapter she had been to a WOGA meeting where WOGA's global leaders were talking about their ministries and Cathy said to herself, "These women are putting their lives on the line - what am I doing?" Then she went back home and started WOGA: Tampa Bay which has been going strong now for almost two years.

Two members of the WOGA: Colorado Springs leadership team had similar stories of returning to the United States after fantastic trips to Africa and wondering how they would keep their newly found global passion alive. They connected with WOGA: Colorado Springs, joined the leadership team and are now inviting other women to join the journey.

We're all looking forward to another good year of connecting with women who are passionate about what God is doing through women globally.

WOGA Chapters Coming in Seattle and Glendora

WOGA North America is soon to welcome two more chapters! WOGA: Seattle will hold their first meeting on October 11 and WOGA: Glendora (35 minutes east of LA) is in the planning stages.

Katey Sherbondy of Seattle went to the Trafficking Forum held by WOGA : Colorado Springs and felt God was putting it on her heart to do something! Namely, to bring WOGA to Seattle If you have any friends there - tell them about this chapter!

Shelley Ulrich in Glendora has been globally connected through her work as Mission Director at Glenkirk Church in Glendora. Although she knew about WOGA, she didn't know we were active in North America as well as around the world. When she went to WOGA's website and discovered that we had local chapter in North America, she thought - I want to start one of those in Glendora!

Welcome Katey and Shelley! We look forward to great things from WOGA : Seattle and WOGA: Glendora!

WOGA: LA Hosts Raven + Lily Travelers

In a whirlwind tour of 3 countries, 2 Raven + Lily designers, 2 WOGA staffers and a film-director-Raven + Lily-spouse met the leaders and artisans of WOGA's East Africa women's coops to begin their fabulous partnership (see blog entry below).

Brandon Dickerson (aka film-directing-spouse) and Lori Fox (Raven + Lily designer) shared from their trip at the recent WOGA: LA meeting.

Ever wonder how men's and women's lives change when their countries are racked by war, genocide and AIDS? Brandon told us that on Sunday in Burundi, the pastor had three points to his sermon: Rape, murder and forgiveness. He encouraged women who had been raped to bring their pain to Christ and challenged any men who had brought knives into the service to turn aside from violence. This is the daily reality of the women in WOGA Burundi's sewing and salon cooperatives.

Lori shared from the heart about how her own faith was strengthened by the faith she saw lived out by the African women artisans.

We had a great time connecting with each other at the meeting as there were women present from the soon-to-be-forming WOGA: Glendora (35 minutes east of LA) as well as our own WOGA: LA members.

Thank you, Brandon and Lori, for sharing your trip and your hearts with us so enthusiastically! Stay tuned for the opening of Raven + Lily's online shop (www.ravenandlily.com) for uniquely creative jewelry, house goods and more crafted by WOGA artisans in East Africa and India as well.

Women on the Agenda!

Groups that work with women received an incredible affirmation of purpose in the recent issue of the New York Times Magazine. Following are excerpts from the article, "The Women's Crusade":

"IN THE 19TH CENTURY, the paramount moral challenge was slavery. In the 20th century, it was totalitarianism. In this century, it is the brutality inflicted on so many women and girls around the globe: sex trafficking, acid attacks, bride burnings and mass rape.

Yet if the injustices that women in poor countries suffer are of paramount importance, in an economic and geopolitical sense the opportunity they represent is even greater. “Women hold up half the sky,” in the words of a Chinese saying, yet that’s mostly an aspiration: in a large slice of the world, girls are uneducated and women marginalized, and it’s not an accident that those same countries are disproportionately mired in poverty and riven by fundamentalism and chaos. There’s a growing recognition among everyone from the World Bank to the U.S. military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff to aid organizations like CARE that focusing on women and girls is the most effective way to fight global poverty and extremism. That’s why foreign aid is increasingly directed to women. The world is awakening to a powerful truth: Women and girls aren’t the problem; they’re the solution."

Yes! This is a powerful truth - investing in the lives of women and girls is the way to go if you want to make an impact on the world! And if something else is true these days, it's that we want to be investing our resources in those things that will bring lasting impact for good!

Raven + Lily with WOGA in East Africa!

Kenya - Maasai artisans with Kirsten Dickerson, founder/director of Raven + Lily, and Judy Mbugua, WOGA Africa Director.

Raven + Lily's work began in Kenya where they met Maasai women who are supporting their families through jewelry-making. Together, they will work to enhance design and marketing and share the women's amazing stories.

Kute in Kenya! Kendra Bailey, WOGA: Colorado Springs, and Lori Fox, WOGA: LA

Kendra, who heads up communications for WOGA, captured photos and stories, while Lori, who's on Raven + Lily's design team, worked with WOGA's East African artisans.

Burundi - Lori and Kirsten strategizing with Peace Nihorimbere, WOGA's Central Africa Director

Raven + Lily will be partnering with the WOGA Sewing Cooperative in Burundi to create some wonderful things - but you have to wait until October to find out what they are! That's when their online store will be up and running (stay tuned at: www.ravenandlily.com)

Ethiopia: Emily Voorhies, WOGA Director, and Kirsten cutting yummy welcome cake in Ethiopia - Pastor Zeb Mengistu (from Beza Church - WOGA's Ethiopia partner) in background

Raven + Lily will partner with Beza's Entoto Outreach to women whose lives have been impacted by AIDS and are making jewelry as a way to earn a living and strengthen their sense of purpose.

For more exciting stories from this trip, check out the Raven + Lily website and their blog at: http://ravenandlily.wordpress.com/.

If you live in Los Angeles, stay tuned for our next WOGA: LA event which will feature Kirsten and Lori as they tell us about the blossoming partnership with our sisters in East Africa.