The Women’s Ministries group had invited women to the Gravesano church in the vicinity of Lugano on Sunday, February 25. In spite of snowfall 15 women decided to participate in the meeting, because an interesting topic was presented: Mentoring. Among others Ildiko Jenna, who is in charge of the Women’s Ministries department of the French and Italian speaking conference of the Swiss Union was present.
The women were delighted that Denise Hochstrasser, Women’s Ministries Director of the EUD had accepted to come as the speaker, and it was the first time that the WM director was able to be with the women in Ticino – with the exception of the Congress in 2017.
Denise presented the concept of mentoring in a phantastic way, with many interesting experiences and illustrations. We were shocked to hear that about 70% of our young people leave the church! Where mentoring is implemented – where young people are cared for, supported and loved– about 90% stay in the church. We should not just be like road signs, but rather we should accompany young people on their way until they can continue by themselves.
The same applies to adults. Selfesteem and faith grow and people are strengthened and encouraged through mentoring, and thus the mentees can become mentors and valuable instruments of God.
All the women returned to their homes full of enthusiasm and new ideas. This women’s meeting was a blessing for all. May God help us to implement what we learned and be with all of us.
Reported by the Ticino Women’s Ministries Group
Women’s Meeting in Ticino, Switzerland
Participants brave Snowfall to attend