Connecting the Christian Family

Kristine Greenaway, United Church overseas personnel, served with Mission and Service partner the World Communion of Reformed Churches in Geneva. Kristine writes the following reflection as she moves from WCRC to the United Church’s General Council Office:

Ljenljenman (pronounced Chen-chen-men) is a member of Taiwan’s Paiwan Aboriginal people. She serves as Women’s Secretary for the predominantly Aboriginal presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan that sits at the southern tip of Taiwan. The women of the presbytery support projects to help single women, theological scholarships, and church growth. In 2013 they celebrated Women’s World Day of Prayer with a service focused on immigrants to France. Funds gathered at the service supported a Taiwanese woman missionary in Ethiopia involved in a Bible translation project in the country.

I was struck by the vision of Paiwanese women praying for people who are seeking a new life in a European country they have never seen, and supporting a Taiwanese missionary serving in Ethiopia.

Ljenljenman also spoke of a joint project between the Paiwan women of Taiwan and Mizoram (tribal) women from the Presbyterian Church of India. Women from the two countries reached across boundaries and found common ground working together on justice concerns for children, women, and family. For me these stories eloquently describe the importance of connecting the Christian family.

As I prepare to return to Canada, my “baggage” will include stories reminding me of how global migration, culture, and faith can form bonds that reach across church and political boundaries.

Thank you for your gifts for Mission and Service that build community and connect the Christian family. Please give generously.

Mighty and tender God, our gifts to M&S help your church to
do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with you.