LEADING THROUGH CHANGE: Missions-Minded… STILL!
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The Women’s Home & Overseas Missionary Society (WH&OMS) is the largest and oldest organization of the AME Zion Church. This vital arm of “Zion” is dedicated to spiritual growth, community service, and global outreach. Implementing the Quadrennial Theme – “Reaching The Masses In An Ever-Changing World… The Journey Continues!” requires a relentless dedication to overcome the many challenges of leading through change.
Missionary Supervisor Camille Starnes is very concerned about the world today. “We’re living in very challenging times, but God has called us to do this ministry. We must be persistent in doing the work and carrying The Gospel.” Her stance: Because God is sending the people to us, we must ask Him to show us creative and innovative ways to complete our mission.
Over the years, the church has established systems and processes to do the work of ministry; however, the number of families reached through historical methods has declined. Missionary Supervisor Lynn Mitchell explained why. “It’s hard to do what you’ve always done – feed, offer supplies – it’s hard, when they are afraid to come out.”
We understand that today’s climate can very easily produce fear in the marginalized. Our WH&OMS 1st Vice President, Angela Davis-Baxter, offers a solution for us to overcome their fears. “As servant leaders, people have to trust us, they have to believe in us.” She stated that this challenging world is so untrustworthy, those we’re trying to reach aren’t always sure who is genuinely offering them assistance. “They must see that we have compassion and care about them… then we can face these challenging times and win the world for Christ.”
Camryn Ivey, who serves as the WH&OMS Director of Communications, expounded on the depth of the challenges through the lens of Young Adults. “We are experiencing censorship which has a profound impact on Millennials and Generation Z who rely heavily on technology to amplify their voices. It’s hard to get the message out when there are people policing what’s being said.” Referencing job insecurity due to technological advances and how those advances affect livelihoods makes Camryn ask the question, “How do we serve those who can’t serve themselves?” She wonders how we can assist those in need with pivoting within career spaces. Youth and children are also of great concern. Recognizing the multiplicity of messages there are promoting violence and self-harm, she also asks, “How are children and youth being affected mentally, and how can we assist them with navigating their everyday lives?” These are questions we must answer clearly and creatively to complete the work.
April Davis, Superintendent of Buds, expressed how we can assist children with leading through change. With every opportunity, she encourages children, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” She explained that it’s important to gain an understanding. Children are afraid as they watch schoolmates’ families being torn apart. Her advice, “You be the person who is kind to them; you be the person who reflects God’s love to them!” Encouraging them to not be afraid, encouraging them to speak up for their friends, and encouraging them to show love IS encouraging them to lead through change.
Young Adult Missionary Society (YAMS) Connectional Coordinator Karlease Smalls reflected on the Quadrennial theme and stated, “It’s hard when the world is ever-changing, and you’re listening to the climate that’s around us: political, spiritual, food insecurities, students’ challenges within their classrooms. As Missionaries, meeting the needs where the people are is important if we are to be effective Missionaries.” She admonished us of the importance of completing regional assessments! Geographical locations are all very different, so we must know where we are and what the actual needs are for that region if we are to appropriately and effectively meet those needs.
Mission work is not easy work, although it is quite rewarding. Reaching the masses is no small feat, and in an ever-changing world is challenging, but doable. Leading through change is difficult, but with GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! The WH&OMS is working the work of missions… and is Missions-Minded… STILL!