The five-day, 51st Annual United Society of Friends Women’s Conference of Lugulu Yearly Meeting, held at Miendo Primary School in the Bokoli Ward, Webuye West Constituency, has concluded today. Women came together to discuss vital issues affecting communities, particularly women and children, with an emphasis on the importance of education, parental responsibility, and unity within the church and society.
The keynote speaker, Pastor Anne Muchembi, the lead pastor of Friends Church Tongaren, urged mothers to prioritize the education of their children despite the challenges they may face. She highlighted the significance of education in shaping future generations and encouraged parents, especially mothers, to remain dedicated to supporting their children’s academic endeavors.
The conference also featured a powerful message from Beatrice Ngutuku, the Principal of Brenda Girls’ Secondary School and the Vice Recording Clerk of the Lugulu Yearly Meeting USFW. She called on parents to take an active role in their children’s lives, particularly when they are at home, ensuring they are not distracted by negative influences. She emphasized the importance of allowing children to attend church functions where they can be molded into God-fearing young Kenyans.
In addition to education, there were discussions about the role of the church in addressing community issues. Winfrenda Wabomba, a preacher at Friends Church Namawanga and a presider at the conference, emphasized that churches should work hand in hand with the government to address pressing societal issues.
Furthermore, Jane Mutoro, a preacher at Friends Church Donholm, shared her thoughts on the heated debate surrounding politicians’ donations to churches. She stated that there is no way to trace the origins of all funds brought into the church. She also pointed out that some churches had previously accepted donations from politicians but are now refusing and demanding the return of the money. She urged the church to pray for the government it helped install and suggested that politicians should also spread their donations to churches that won’t return the money, as some churches have never received such significant amounts.
The conference was attended by USFW members from 67 Monthly Meetings across Bungoma and Busia counties. It served as a platform for the women of the church to come together, share ideas, and strengthen their commitment to both their families and their faith.
As the event concluded, the participants were reminded of the vital role they play in shaping the next generation through education, spiritual guidance, and active participation in their communities. The leaders left with a strong call to action: to continue working toward a better future for the youth, fostering an environment of education, spiritual growth, and ethical practices within their communities.
