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Central Jamaica Conference Shepherdess is a chapter of Shepherdess
International, a programme funded by the General Conference of
Seventh-day Adventist under the auspices of the Ministerial
Association, to meet the specific needs of ministers’ spouses.
Survey of minister’s wives revealed a need for an effective support
system that can encourage and educate women in their role as wives,
mothers and leaders. The minister’s wife has been one of the
neglected, yet most valuable resources of the
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church. To meet her
unique needs, this organization has been established on an
international scale. Among the goals of Shepherdess International
are:
- To create
awareness of the needs for local organizations to provide
support for the spouses of ministers.
- To help pastoral
spouses understand their importance and recognize their unique
spiritual gifts.
- To train
pastoral spouses as paraprofessionals in ministry.
- To provide
fellowship and support.
- To encourage the
ministerial family to spend their time together.
Central Jamaica
Conference has embraced this program and boasts a thriving
shepherdess chapter. Activities include yearly enrichment retreats,
quarterly general meetings and monthly parish meetings.
The Shepherdesses of Central Jamaica Conference serves the local
church by providing an enriched helpmeet for their husbands. They
understand the expectations of their husband’s congregations and use
their talents and skills to enhance the programs of the church. The
local church is being guided as to how to better appreciate and
compliment the efforts of the pastoral family.
Central Jamaica Conference has a group of talented Shepherdesses who
continue to go the extra mile to facilitate their husband’s
ministry.
The role of keeping their Pastor /husbands happy and supported is
usually not seen, but it is absolutely essential for a prosperous
church. Outreach activities engaged in by these sisters include
visits to shut-inns, visit fellow shepherdesses and church members. |
