On behalf of the Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Trinidad and Tobago, I take this opportunity to bring greetings to all our Mothers, Sisters and Daughters on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2024. As a Presbyterian Church, we are very much aware of your invaluable contribution, sacrifice, spirit of determination and perseverance, as well as your willingness to accept and follow-through, on any task or challenge you may meet, on your journey of life. As a result of your unwavering faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, you seek always, to build your homes and society upon a firm foundation.
We are grateful that despite the many obstacles you have met and continue to meet, you are indeed the greatest ‘warriors’ the world has ever known. No doubt the ministry and mission of the Church of Jesus Christ in the world is stronger today, as a result of your tireless efforts over the years. We acknowledge the many ways in which you have excelled in the various spheres of life: as Mothers, Wives, Caregivers, Home-makers, Religious leaders within the Church and community, Politicians, Academia, Business, Health, Education, the Arts and many other areas, too numerous to mention here. You have proven yourselves to be the ‘First Responders’ to many of life’s crises. As a Church, we applaud your enthusiasm, passion and willingness to ‘serve wherever and whenever the need may arise.’
To be the Church in the world, calls us to stand in solidarity and to identify with our Mothers, Sisters and Daughters in their struggle to be heard and to have their concerns addressed. We take this time to remember those who continue to experience abuse, exploitation, exclusion and other forms of violence; those who are ill, lonely and sad; those who have lost loved ones and have witnessed indescribable cruel acts meted out to friends and family members.
We live in a world which presents challenges to everyone. I therefore impress upon us all, especially our Women in society, of the need to love, forgive, care and to be the best examples you can be, for our young women, as they prepare themselves to be the leaders of tomorrow.
The Word of God reminds us in Joshua 1:9 ‘’Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’’(NIV)
May these words be the source of encouragement and hope and we celebrate International Women’s Day. May we remember with thanksgiving in our hearts, all those who have worked to have women enjoy the freedom they do today, yet being fully aware that there is much more work to be done.
A Blessed, Fulfilling and Holy International Women’s Day to all our Mothers, Sisters and Daughters!
Right Reverend Daniel Chance
Moderator of The Synod of The Presbyterian Church of Trinidad and Tobago
