April 2021
Vol 2021.2
QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
WOMEN OF PURPOSE
Connecting, Supporting and Empowering Women
#CHOOSETOCHALLENGE
April 2021
Vol 2021.2
EASTER GREETINGS
HOPE
by Janet Sealey Chairman
It felt like yesterday when we welcomed 2021 and we have surpassed the quarter mark. We could not have done it without the help of Almighty God, to Him we raise a loud and long Hallelujah! This period has not been without its challenges, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic with its threats and opportunities, loss of loved ones and reduced income to name a few. However, there were some victories, some families welcomed newborns while entrepreneurial prospects and virtual connections expanded. Easter is a season of Hope, when the women visited the tomb of Jesus to anoint His body, the angel gave them some good news “He is not here, He is risen” and their hope was restored (Matt. 28:1-10). No matter how despairing your situation may be, do not form an alliance with hopelessness, believe in God’s promise that he will never leave you nor forsake you (Heb 13:5). Cast your mind back to your past experiences, that last miracle when God came through for you, His power is still the same and He will do it again. The power that raised Jesus from the dead will resurrect every lifeless condition in your life. Be patient, keep Hope alive, God will turn it around.
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
WHAT'S IN YOUR BAG?
by Jenifer J. Johnson Founder/Ministry Director Here is an assignment for you. Get a bag and collect the following items, write or print the scripture to go with each item. Hold this as a reminder that God will never leave you or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5. Your bag has in some items to show you can make it: TOOTHPICK - to remind you to pick the good qualities in others. - Matthew 7: 1
RUBBER BAND – to remind you to be flexible. Things may not always go the way you want, but it will work out - Romans 8:28 PENCIL – to remind you to list your blessings every day. Ephesians 1:3 BAND AID - to remind you to heal hurt feelings, yours or someone else’s Colossians 3:12-14 ERASER – to remind you that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s okay Genesis 50:19 Story of Joseph and His brothers (Read 15-21) CHEWING GUM - to remind you to stick with it, and you can accomplish anything. - Philippians 4:13 MINT- to remind you that you are worth a mint. - John 3:16-17 KISS CANDY - to remind you that everyone needs a kiss or a hug everyday. John 4:7 TEA BAG - to remind you to relax daily and go over your list of blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
CHOOSE TO CHALLENGE
by Tracey Knight-Lloyd On March 8, 2021 we celebrated International Women's Day with a zoom session. We had an amazing time as Ms. Tracey Knight-Lloyd challenged us in the following ways: Choose To Challenge Self Choose to challenge yourself that you are indeed enough and you have what it takes to live the life of your dreams. How can you choose to challenge if you have the notion that you're not enough? You must be confident and go forth with courage and quickly banish any thoughts of self doubt that come to mind. Choose To Challenge our Society How do we challenge gender roles in society? Eg. Little girls are often called bossy when they are assertive in class. Why are they called bossy and not emerging leaders? I challenge you, the next time you see a little girl being called bossy, you'll take note that you have met an emerging leader. Society broadens the gap between gender by saying "men do this and women do that". Eg. Why is it ok to
be a house wife and not a house husband? Why is this not a role that is embraced by society? Is it because women are usually seen as the caregivers and men as the providers? But what about practical consideration? Because in some scenarios this role may be better suited to the man. We as women must be not guilty of perpetuating stereotypes we would like to see end. Another one of the biggest threats to gender inequality is domestic violence, which is mostly perpetuated against women. This is both a cause and a consequence of gender based inequality. We must challenge the notion that domestic violence is acceptable among women in society, however, we must also encourage more women to be brave enough to tell their stories about emerging from abusive situations, so that others can see a good life after abuse is entirely possible. Choose To Challenge in the Workplace In a meeting when there is no one to take the notes, have you ever noticed that the natural default is always a woman? Even when there are men in the meeting, it is something that just happens and that is a gender bias. Another scenario is the sensitive topic of "Pay". Women are paid less than men, in comparison to men in similar positions. Men are promoted to manager or CEO at a higher rate than women. We must choose to challenge the notion that there is no room for female CEOs or managers. Women must also choose to challenge for ourselves and for others. We must choose to challenge for Equal work, Equal pay. During the pandemic, some women were forced to make the choice of opting out of their jobs to take care of children and home. Women are considering down shifting, leaving their careers or leaving the work force indefinitely. This is a major risk as it will cause companies to lose women in leadership this way. This is evidence that we need to choose to challenge workplace norms and culture, so as to make the workplace more flexible. Now is the time for women to support, grow and develop each other women in the workplace more than ever. I choose to challenge women of influence in any organization to reach back and help others. Celebrating Women's Achievements By doing this, we inspire ourselves and women to do better, and more importantly we raise our collective visibility as women. Celebrate all achievements because every small win counts. Celebrating another woman's victory, does not take away from ours. Congratulate a woman, brag on her, compliment her and choose to challenge to Celebrate Women's Achievements, big and small.
#CHOOSETOCHALLENGE Page 4
April 2021
Vol 2021.2
2021 SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN
DR. CINDY FLOWER
Rheumatologist
Dr. Cindy Flower is a senior associate lecturer, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus and an associate consultant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados. With the establishment of the rheumatology clinic at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in 1997, Dr. Flower was able to establish a registry of rheumatic disease in Barbados and publish articles on the epidemiology of rheumatic disease with special emphasis on systemic lupus erythematosus. Dr. Flower lectures locally and internationally and is on the medical advisory committee of the Hope Foundation of Barbados, a non-governmental organization representing patients with lupus and other lesser-known chronic diseases. She was the President of the Caribbean Association for Rheumatology from 2018 to 2020. Dr. Flower is a rheumatologist with a gentle nature and quiet demeanor, but with a deep passion for her craft and her patients. She is very knowledgeable, and is very meticulous and detailed in the care of each patient. Her passion for her job, has helped to care for and save the lives of many, therefore making the journey of living with a chronic illness much more manageable for her patients. We shine our spotlight on Dr. Cindy Flower for her commitment to the field of Rheumatology and Lupus research. Dr. Flower, we appreciate you!
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April 2021
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2021 SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN
DR. FRANCINE BOWMAN-JONES
General Practitioner
Dr. Jones is a physician by profession, who currently has the responsibility of Medical Officer of Health (Acting), of the Sir Winston Scott Polyclinic. Francine has served for many years, across the health care system of Barbados and is very passionate about the care of all of her patients, She is a pastor's wife and the mother of three talented and intelligent children. Two teenage daughters and a son, who are all involved in church ministry. Francine is young woman with a heart for the things of Christ. She is very involved in church ministry, with emphasis on the worship, music and dance ministries. As a mother of two daughters who are very talented dancers, she invests time assisting with the Dance Ministry at the Ellerton Wesleyan Church. She has a good interaction with our youth, and has been a mentor and a mother to many young people, other than he own children. We shine the spotlight on Dr. Francine Bowman-Jones for her tireless work as a frontline worker, during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Jones we truly appreciate all that you do.
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
2021 SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN
MRS. HEATHER ODLE
Advocate of the Disabled
The month of March was the month for celebrating not only women, but also persons living with disabilities. Here is Heather Odle, mother Ms. Janeil Odle. At the age of five years old, Janeil loss her vision, after hitting her head while playing on her bicycle. In 2007, Janeil was the first blind student to take the Barbados Secondary School Entrance Examination, in braille. On passing for Combermere Secondary School, Janeil with the assistance of mother Heather Odle and father Jeffrey Odle, charted a path that would help her to break barriers and achieve historic success. On leaving the Combermere School, Janeil continued on to the Barbados Community College and subsequently the University of the West Indies and Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, where she studied for her Legal Certificate. In December 2020, Janeil set the bar high, by being the first blind person to be called to the bar of Barbados, but Janeil could not have achieved all of these accolades without the assistance of both of her parents, whose assistance, persistence and championing allowed her to break these barriers and pave the way for other disabled students. Though both parents have played an integral part in Janeil reaching her goal of being the first blind attorney on island, we currently place our spotlight on Heather. Heather your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed, Your perseverance is admirable, your consistency is commendable and your advocacy is undeniable. Thank you for helping to pave the way for not only children who are blind, but for all children living with any disability. Your efforts have proven that we can achieve the things to which we aspire and we should always stand up for what we believe. Heather, we appreciate you! Page 7
April 2021
Vol 2021.2
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
by Joelle Johnson What an unimaginable year it has been! A year of change, a year of pain, a year of growth and even regression, and a year of questions answered and unanswered. Covid-19 has taken the world by storm, affecting the lives of so many locally and across the world. However, there is one question that keeps replaying in my mind. “What lesson(s) are we supposed to learn as a result of this global pandemic, that we have not learnt to date?” Here are a few things I have observed, over the last year: Our Resistance to Change – We often ask for change, advancement in technology and improvement in processes, but when it was suddenly implemented, we had difficulty adapting and in some cases found fault with the new processes. We were being asked to employ new forms of technology to conduct our business, but would complain because of our resistance to what’s new, or the fact that we had to expose ourselves to understand the change, technology or process. It is understandable that for some that may be difficult, however, for many it was due to mind-sets that required adjusting. We complain that the way Barbados functions is too backward, yet when progress is being brought about, though in an unexpected way, we are ready to reject it. Change is inevitable and we would prefer to plan for the changes in our lives, but that is not always feasible. Sometimes God allows change to be thrusted upon us to test our trust and faith in Him. Are you trusting God with the affairs of ALL aspects of your life? Our Inability to Comply – Throughout the pandemic, we have been placed under several directives to help minimise the spread of the virus, but due to the disobedience of some, we have been faced with an uptake in the number of persons infected by the virus. Directives, like laws, rules and commandments, are put in place to keep order, however, some of us are being purposely defiant because we feel as though we are being held hostage. Like many, I understand the frustration and the longing to get back to some level of normalcy, but our progress is dependent on our compliance with all directives and protocols. Unless we adhere to the guidelines as set out, we will be living a Covid-19 life for a very long time. My disappointment comes in knowing that some of the chief offenders are persons within the religious community, including those who call themselves Christians. How does this behaviour help to win the souls of the non-Christian? How is this a witness for God? Selfishness, Greed and Fear – Covid-19 has shown that many persons operate in this world only thinking about self, without considering our neighbours, family or friends. When going to the shop for our households, did we consider calling our elderly relatives to inquire if they required anything, so as to minimise their exposure to the population? Were we willing to share what we had with those who did not have? Some of us wanted the luxuries and constantly went shopping, though we could’ve lived on the items in our pantries. Others were so filled with fear, that they overstocked their cupboards with items, sometimes causing others who really needed items to be unable to acquire them. Some persons accepted care packages knowing they were not necessarily in the group classified as most vulnerable, and could sustain ourselves during these difficult times, but accepted them hoping to save a dollar, instead of thinking of the family next door, all out of work, who may not even have a dollar to feed themselves. Or the family from church that can’t eat or afford to pay their bills. Our Lack of Patience – This virus has impacted each person in the world. If we haven’t been infected by the virus, we have had a friend, a colleague or a family member who has been. Some have even experienced the loss of someone, or know of someone who has died. All of these factors alone are overwhelming and stressful, compounded by the financial (inability to meet monetary obligations and provide for family), emotional (marital or relational issues manifesting as a result of being in the same space for extended hours), mental (thoughts of suicide, triggered or newly diagnosed mental conditions), and physical or sexual (experiences of abuse) issues, to name a few. We don’t always know what cross our brothers and sisters Page 8
April 2021
Vol 2021.2
may be facing, and Covid-19 has shared a myriad of problems, so we need to be patient with others. Also be patient with those who may not be familiar with the technologies we have to utilise to attend church, school, meetings and to carry out business. It may call for a sacrifice of time and increased patience, but try to assist a brother or sister who may be having difficulty. Our Inability to Enjoy Our Own Company – This pandemic season created opportunities for us to engage in moments of self-reflection, self-awareness and self-improvement. But Covid19 has shown that some of us are so afraid to be in our own company that we are willing to breach protocols or risk our own health and that of others, so as not to be alone. I strongly believe this is an opportunity for us to learn about ourselves, expand our knowledge and educate ourselves, learn a skill, turn a hobby into a business. The possibilities are endless right now. Our Love for Complaining – Most of the decisions that were made by government and their satellite committees, have been at some point criticised or condemned. We will not always agree with decisions made, but if we criticise, we should have a practical solution. Some of us are unable to do so. In our introspection, we should always ask “Had you been in a position of leadership, would you have been able to make better decisions on behalf of an entire nation?” Why is it that with every directive, some of us are behaving as though you are being personally attacked? Let us instead ask God to impart wisdom upon our leaders, guiding them to make the best decisions in the interest of our country; medically, economically, socially, educationally, physically, emotionally and mentally. If in a position of privilege, ask God to give you sound solutions and the right opportunity to share your solutions. The next time a decision is made with which you may not be in agreement, stop and ask God to guide the authorities in making the right decisions, even in areas where they lack the knowledge to do. James 1:5 (KJV) “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Our Inability to Think for Ourselves – As more and more information became available about Covid-19 and subsequently about the vaccines, so many of us listened to others, who shared false information and conspiracy theories, and took it as gospel. We replaced our ability to think and make decisions for ourselves, with many external voices. We listened to the voices of man and not that of God. Did many of us seek God to hear what He was saying to us or what He was trying to show us? Many of us held devices in our hands but never did our own research. We seldom read the papers or listened to the news, to be correctly informed. We never went before God, for assistance in making a more informed decision? Our Religious Spirits - During this period, we were sometimes unable to worship in the physical church building, however, most churches utilised streaming platforms, whether live or otherwise, to share the message of God. But some of us behaved so religious, upset that we were being restricted from physically meeting, that we either complained every week while watching, or we did not try to log on at all. Some of us were willing to risk the health and safety of ourselves and others, just to say that we were going to a church building. What many did not consider was the fact the message was now reaching persons across the world. Is this not modern day evangelism? God has created an opportunity for us to travel the world and preach and teach His word, without the expense of having to travel. Mark 16:15 (KJV) - And he said unto them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” When you reflect on how you have handled the pandemic thus far, would God be pleased with your actions and thoughts? Are you going to be a better and more improved person when this is all over? If no, I would implore you to address this immediately. At the end of this, has the church done a job that is pleasing to God? Have we done all we could have done and touched all those we could have touched, during this period? Nevertheless, though we may not understand all that is taking place, let us believe that God has this pandemic in His hands. "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
EASTER TRADITIONS IN BARBADOS
by Cheryl Griffith and Joelle Johnson
HE IS RISEN!
Easter is an important celebration in Barbados, especially as it relates to the Christian calendar. Persons usually attend church on Good Friday is held in remembrance of the crucifixion and on Easter Sunday in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yes, it's a Christian celebration, but the there are also many local traditions associated with the Easter season.
HATS OFF
Easter bonnet parades were originally created to signify the renewal of spirit and the wearing of new clothes. In modern times, it is a form of craftmanship and artistry. Many schools and community groups hold these parades across the island.
FLYING HIGH
Kite-flying is one of the popular Easter traditions in Barbados. It allows persons to express their creativity, experimenting with many shapes and sizes. During this time the children are usually on holiday, they would freely engage in the kite flying activities of the season, either by purchasing or constructing their own kites using various mediums such as sugar cane trash, coconut sticks, glue, nylon etc, in a variety of vibrant colors. On Good Friday persons would usually flock to the Garrison Savannah to showcase their creativity and participate in kite-flying competitions and challenges.
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
EASTER BITES
Barbadians usually consume more fish at this time. On all Fridays during the Lenten season, Catholics fast the consumption of meat with blood, in remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice. Some persons take this universal practice to another level, by fasting meat for the entire period of Lent. On the local scene, Barbadians look forward to partaking of the hot cross buns which are usually prepared and distributed by our local bakeries, but can also be made at home.
SUPERSTISIONS
There are many local superstitions associated with the Easter Season. Some of the most widely known are: Sea bathing on Good Friday is heavily frowned upon as people believe this is a time of death. The bruising of a physic nut tree at noon on Good Friday will result in that tree bleeding in the same manner that Christ did on the cross. The placement of an egg in a glass of water usually forms into the shape of the cross/ship.
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
RECIPE CORNER
HOT CROSS BUNS
by Jehan Can Cook Blog
INGREDIENTS 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast 1/4 cup water 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup white sugar 3/4 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg 1 1/4 cups lukewarm milk 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 egg 1/4 cup raisins (optional) 1 egg yolk 1 tbsp water or milk Sugar Glazed 1/3 cup water 2 tbsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla Icing Cross 1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar 2 tbsp milk
INSTRUCTIONS (Yield: 12 Buns; Prep Time: 3 hrs; Cook Time: 25mins) Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water and let stand until dissolved, about 5 minutes. Place the flour, salt, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, 1 1/4 cups of milk, butter and egg in a stand up mixer. Pour the yeast mixture on top. With the dough hook, mix for about 5 mins until well combine. If using raisins, add them and mix for additional 2 mins. Cover and let rise for 1 hour. After 1 hour, punch dough down and pour onto a floured surface. Knead lightly for about 1 to 2 mins. Divide into 12 portions and shape into balls. Place 8 pieces into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, and the additional 4 in a 8x8inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside to rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the plastic wrap from the rolls. Mix 1 egg yolk plus milk and brush tops off rolls. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with glaze. Allow to cool completely before adding frosting cross. For Glaze, place sugar, water and vanilla in a small pot and cook for about 5 mins. Brush glazed over buns when hot. Make frosting by whisking together the confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth. When the buns are cool, drizzle frosting over them in a cross shape.
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April 2021
Vol 2021.2
WOP REMINDERS
MONTHLY PRAYER
Every month on the third Thursday, WoP will be hosting Zoom prayer. With our changing world, we can never be too prayed up. Challenges arise daily and we need to be covered by God. We need to have on our full armor, that we can conquer this battle called life. We look forward to sharing and praying with you.
BABY BOTTLE DRIVE
There are persons who are possession of WoP baby bottles. Please return them as soon as possible with their contents, as we seek to begin a new cycle.
DONATIONS
The Bi-monthly radio program and the monthly food drive are still running, however, we are always in need of funds and any other tangible contributions that can be made.
YEARLY CONTRIBUTION
Every year we make a donation of at least $60 to assist Women of Purpose with its projects. If you have not made a donation for 2021, you are still free to do so.
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Women of Purpose Ministry 137 Lodge Terrace St. Michael Tel: 246-851-9215/246-826-7798 Email: womenofpurpose.bb@gmail.com To make an appointment to see a counsellor please call: (246) 851-9215 -Jenifer J. Johnson or email us at: womenofpurpose.bb@gmail.com