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 mother and sisters
Cassandra opening with prayer and a warm welcomeJudy'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.
Over the summer, many of us were blessed to participate in a bible study/book discussion on the incredible book, 
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.
