It is difficult to imagine an aspect of our global society where the image of God inherent in each of us as His creation is more marred and the beauty He has bestowed is more overshadowed by darkness than in the realms of human trafficking and prostitution.
Yet every day, hundreds of Christian organizations and thousands of staff and volunteers are walking into these dark places, seeking to restore hope and dignity through the power of Jesus Christ. Working in the brothels of Bangkok, on the streets of Addis Ababa, and in rural villages and mega cities across the globe, courageous men and women are praying for, loving, and walking alongside those in their communities who are seeking freedom from destructive lifestyles. This is often a very lonely existence. Little support and few resources seem to exist for those who feel called by God to reach out to those trapped in the complexity of trafficking and prostitution.
However, a global response has begun to form from the grassroots level – bringing together practitioners in many regions to learn from one another, offer encouragement and spiritual refreshment, and strengthen the impact of these ministries. With the help of Samaritan’s Purse Canada, nearly 200 frontline workers have participated in regional conferences in Africa, Asia, and Latin America in recent years. All told, ministries from more than 30 countries were represented in these three regional gatherings. Further training continues through these networks, including a 12-month online pilot program in 2011 that focused on specific skills, tools, and knowledge to increase the capacity of several organizations across Africa.
One delegate from Thailand commented at the close of the Asian conference that “I have been reminded that God can use us beyond what we are capable of alone.” The quick friendships that formed between these women and men – who, just days before, did not know one another – was an incredible expression of the unity of the Body of Christ.
These times together were also an opportunity to determine next steps for the regional networks and opportunities that may exist for continued collaboration, sharing and receiving resources, and capacity building for the ministries.
Mary from Uganda was overjoyed to participate in the Africa conference and said “this is the first training I have ever received. Until now, I have just been using my testimony [to reach the girls on the street], but now God has provided this opportunity to help further equip me! What an encouragement to meet with these other ministries.”
A new sense of belonging to a community of similar ministries was an important step for delegates from each of the regions. “It has been such a privilege to be here and to learn from each of you,” says one enthusiastic young Chinese woman working in a major city in China. “I have been encouraged and refreshed and I know that I am not alone! I am now ready to go back and keep serving – we are serving together in Jesus’ Name!”
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Please pray that God will restore hope and dignity to hurting women around the world, and that He will provide abundant resources, effective partnerships, and meaningful opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. |  | GivePartner with Samaritan’s Purse to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation that is oppressing women in the developing world. Donate Here.
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