Shimmer conference 2008 — Firepower
A stunning September day greeted delegates to Shimmer's seventh annual women's Conference. This year, 150 women attended from across the Peninsula and beyond.
The conference began with some inspirational stuff from the music team. Hands were raised and an army of women sang their hearts out led by an equally passionate Lucinda Castaing.
Jenny Dawson was the first speaker. Fresh from the Congo, Jenny spoke about her work with the community affected by the ongoing war. Her time counselling the Police was especially harrowing. These big, seemingly powerful men had also been victims of the savage war. By leading the Police to a place of peace, the community would also begin to heal.
The extent of trauma in the Congo was overwhelming. From the corruption in the church to the state of anarchy in the country, peace seemed impossible. Jenny's research had shown that only through God were people being led from trauma to healing. It was only when they experienced a place of refuge and the presence of the Holy Spirit was there hope.
It was an incredible journey into a place so foreign to our own. It is often painful to have our own eyes opened to the traumatic experiences of our fellow men. It can leave you with a sense of helplessness in the face of such evil. However, as a wise man once said "what is in your hands?".
After a delicious morning tea, the ladies were literally herded back into the auditorium to hear once again from Dumi Hanyani . What a joy it was to hear again from this incredible lady. She spoke about her journey from Zimbabwe to Australia. It was a fascinating and often painful account of a life of faith. Dumi recalled her moment with Zimbabwe's corrupt President, Robert Mugabe. She held onto his hand begging to be sent to a post overseas where she could complete her Masters degree. By the hand of God this wish was granted. She spoke of difficult experiences in Australia and the lifeline she was handed by compassionate St Vincent de Paul Soceity. Dumi is now a citizen of Australia. She is full of grace and gratefulness. Such an inspiration for us to be grateful for what we have and mindful of the evil that corrupts.
Aliki finished off the conference beautifully. Her gifts of storytelling and music inspired self-reflection. It was a simple but powerful reminder of God's love for his people. She spoke about not being governed by fear but by faith. Her honesty and passion were contagious. Aliki spoke to the hearts of the women. Sometimes when we feel like an old dirty beaten up violin, we need only to let the master play and value is added to us. It is only when God writes our life's song that the notes are beautiful and meaningful.
Firepower 2008 was a well-rounded day. It had it all; tears, laughter, hope, despair and inspiration. Thankyou to the amazing Shimmer team; Marion Powell, Yvette Pascoe, Lindy Hubbard, Jenny Atkin, Katie Young, Steph Andrew and Anne Walsh who worked so hard making this event happen. The women of the church and beyond THANK YOU!
Emma watson
photos by Kathryn Wakeling
