Matthew 18:10-14 and Luke 15:1-7 reference ‘The Parable of the Lost Sheep’, where the shepherd takes action when the sheep is lost; and with joy, celebrates their return.

Research shows that many people stop attending church because of conflict, broken relationships, perceived hypocrisy, and lack of friends or support. Others may be victims of emotional, domestic, or even sexual abuse.

The Women’s Ministries Department, not only of The South Bahamas Conference but worldwide will observe “EndItNow” Emphasis Day on August 24, 2024, where the church is to go out and love anyone affected by abuse. The campaign, “Go Find My Sheep” highlights our need to minister like The Good Shepherd, searching for the lost and afflicted as He does. More than ever, these people need to know that Jesus cares for them.

As Christ’s disciples, you and I are needed to help find the “lost sheep” that have been separated from the fold and assist them in healing to feel a part of a safe church community.

Locally, The Women’s Ministries Department of New Providence Church has initiated programs and services to appeal not only to younger and older women but to those who may have left the church for various reasons. Through Prayer Breakfasts, Online Vesper Services, Sip & Paints, Home visits, Chat & Chew, and even a Women’s International Day of Prayer; efforts are being made to “seek and save that which is lost”. In addition to planning programs, we as a church can be proactive by increasing awareness of the creeping ills or dangers of abuse; cultivating an environment with zero tolerance for it, and supporting potential victims by breaking the silence in our churches as well as our communities. We must all say “NO” to violence and work together to “EndItNow”.

A “Trauma-Informed Church” is conscious of the impact trauma makes on the lives of its members by operating with sensitivity, care, and compassion, thus making the environment safe for everyone to worship. This includes all of us being led by The Holy Spirit through prayer and fasting so that we can be able to break through existing barriers and effectively listen to others in keeping with preserved confidentiality and continued support. The recovery ministry will not only assist victims and survivors of abuse but also divorce and grief.

It’s amazing how many souls are blessed after a program brought on by The Women’s Ministry Department, yet only when we all do our part to help, can so many more souls be blessed and find their way back to Jesus. May our congregations become safe spaces and more than that, springs of Christ’s overflowing love.



Dr. Shekenah K. Turnquest: GEMS / Women’s Ministries Assistant Leader (New Providence Church)