On Saturday, 28th September 2024, the women of the Metro Section in the Eastern Cape Division gathered at Greenbushes Corps for a memorable Women’s Ministries Rally. With the theme “Growing Side by Side,” the day was beautifully hosted by the ladies of Greenbushes Corps, offering a space for fellowship, worship, and spiritual encouragement.
The day began with an uplifting time of praise and worship, setting the tone for hearts to be open to God’s presence. Uitenhage Corps sang a stirring song about growing together in Christ, a fitting reflection of the day’s theme. The women were then treated to an impactful drama from PE Central Corps, which focused on the importance of prayer. Each woman in attendance received her own prayer rock as a keepsake—a tangible reminder to keep praying and seeking God daily.
The Greenbushes Corps Home League further emphasized the importance of prayer through a powerful dance. With each movement, they declared that “when we fight, we fight on our knees.” Their dance beautifully captured the essence of spiritual warfare—relying not on our own strength, but on God’s power accessed through prayer.
Later in the afternoon, women from Sidwell Corps shared deeply personal testimonies of transformation. Their stories spoke of lives once engulfed in darkness but now shining with the light of Christ. These testimonies of redemption were a powerful reminder that God is still in the business of transforming lives—taking brokenness and turning it into beauty, bringing hope and healing where there once was despair.
During a special moment of recognition, Major Jane Hatakupa, the Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, honoured the Retired Officers and Silver Star parents in attendance. The Retired Officers, who have served faithfully for many years, were celebrated for their dedication to both God and The Salvation Army.
The message of the day was delivered by Major Leanne Browski, who focused on the story of Ruth and Naomi. She spoke about the Hesed love that characterized their relationship—a love marked by loyalty, faithfulness, and selflessness. Major Leanne encouraged the women to embrace that same kind of love in their own lives, reminding them that if we are to grow side by side, we must love one another with the same enduring commitment that Ruth showed Naomi. This kind of love, she explained, strengthens the bonds between us and allows us to flourish in faith together.
After the Word, the atmosphere shifted to one of quiet reflection and prayer. Women bowed their heads, some their knees, seeking the Lord. The presence of God was felt, and hearts were open to the work of His Spirit. Each woman was invited to consider how she might grow closer to both God and her sisters in Christ, committing to reflect Hesed love in their home, workplace, Corps, and community.
The day ended with Shayatafula, a time when Helping Hand funds were collected and presented. This act of giving, done in unity and joy, was a beautiful expression of the women’s shared commitment to serve others. It served as a reminder that growth in faith isn’t just about receiving—it’s about giving back and contributing to the work of the Kingdom in practical ways.
As the women of the Metro Section left Greenbushes Corps, they carried with them not just their prayer rocks but hearts full of love, ready to continue growing side by side, confident that God was at work in their midst.
