Asia Pacific Alliance Women Unite in Prayer and Mission

In a harmonious convergence of cultures, the 8th Asia Pacific Alliance Women’s Conference and Prayer Journey unfolded with the resounding theme “Go to the Nations.”

The C&MA Korea welcomed 95 women of the Asia Pacific Alliance Churches (APAC) in Incheon, South Korea, November 1-4, 2023, for the 8th Asia Pacific Alliance Women’s (APAW) Conference and Prayer Journey. They extended a warm welcome, and were greeted with thoughtful tokens such as mirrors, scarves, and beauty products. The opening night set a unique tone with a cultural dance and a heartfelt expression of worship. C&MA Korea President Jong Hun Sim set the stage with a challenge to the women: “You are the catalyst for change, the voice of hope, and the representation of love and grace for the Kingdom of God.”

“I found deep resonance in the impactful words shared by Eunice Faldas Lumawag, the AWF Women’s Ministries facilitator, during the lecture on the Pastor’s Wives Ministry,” said APAW treasurer Jennifer J. Min of Korea. “Lumawag’s emphasis on the significance of pastors reclaiming their identities as children of God struck a chord within me. The vision she painted, portraying an intimate fellowship with God, illuminated the path for pastors to serve as catalysts, inspiring, activating, and mobilizing women within our churches—all for the glory of God,” said Min.

Elizabeth Ronda, the C&MA Indonesia National Women’s director, spoke from the heart about the experience: “Thirty-nine members from the Indonesian Alliance Women’s Ministry joyfully participated in the conference, reveling in the opportunity to connect and enjoy fellowship with women from diverse corners of the globe. Our spirits were rejuvenated through immersive sessions centered on the study of God’s Word, skillfully tailored to meet the unique needs of women. A particularly impactful study session,” Ronda said, “focused on the role of pastors’ wives, providing profound strength and resonance for those of us engaged in ministries fraught with challenges.”

Gilda Orendain, the president of the National Alliance Women of the Philippines, shared this heartfelt call to embrace the broader tapestry of our global community: “At the APAW Conference, my key takeaway is a fervent encouragement for more Filipino women to partake in this enriching experience, fostering a deeper appreciation and immersion into the diverse cultures and practices of women from various countries united in the shared mission of spreading the gospel.”

Rev. David Shin, C&MA Korea’s general secretary, highlighted the 2.5 million foreigners living in Korea as a harvest field, inviting women to join in reaching their own people.

“The impactful words from the Korean pastor resonated deeply within me,” said Hongoroo Daimaa of Mongolia. “His insight, viewing workers from foreign countries as a harvest to be nurtured and eventually sent back to their homelands, struck a chord. The profound message on missions delivered by Melody Maraat further touched my heart,” said Daimaa, “revealing her sincere dedication and passion for the Mongolian people. This experience made me acutely aware of the daily challenge of aligning with God’s will rather than my own, emphasizing the importance of following his guidance.”

One of the highlights was wearing the Hanbok on an excursion to the Gyeongbok Palace. Hanbok is the traditional Korean clothing worn by men, women, and children. It is characterized by vibrant colors and simple lines, representing the aesthetics of Korean culture. Special thanks to the Korean brethren who prepared more than 100 Hanbok for the women to wear and to take home.

For Libby Gupta of Australia the prayer journey was a highlight: “Honoring the sacrifices of the first missionaries to Korea inspired me to see the value of mission. Exploring the Gyeongbok Palace gave me a fresh appreciation of Korean culture,” she said, “and I dressed in my Hanbok for sharing in my church last Sunday. It was an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Thanks to all who organized it.”

The culmination of the conference featured a celebration of the Lord’s Supper, building bridges across language barriers and diverse cultures.

The success was marked not only by wonderful memories, but by a unique mission received from God. APAW President Filipinas Barrieses expressed gratitude for the unity in love and the Spirit that bound the women together.

As they returned to their respective countries, the mission “Go to the Nations” echoed. The shared prayer was for continued connection through intercession, binding hearts to reach the least reached people across the globe.