The Tribune

With prayer, reflection and devotion as its cornerstone, the organisation of Anglican Church Women (ACW) of the Diocese of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands has grown into a force to be reckoned with. This month, the ACW celebrates its 50th anniversary and will host its 42nd annual conference under the theme “Moving Forward With Confidence and Love in Christ Jesus.”

Prime Minister Perry Christie has proclaimed May 16-22 as Anglican Church Women’s Week.

And the women’s religious organisation has a list of activities to recognise this year of distinction. Just before the start of the ACW week next Tuesday there will be a premiere showing of the documentary “Anglican Church Women: A Salute to 50 years of Faith, Commitment and Love”.

The showing is at Galleria, JFK, at 6.30pm on May 13. Through this documentary audiences will hear first-hand from ACW members about the start of the organisation and its work in upholding the church’s ministry. Tickets are $20.

The ACW have made it to their golden jubilee through the faithful service of their members. On May 16, 50 long-serving members will be honoured at a gala ball held under the patronage of Bishop Laish Boyd and Joann Boyd at the Meli� Nassau Beach Resort at 7pm. Bishop Boyd will bring remarks; tickets are $100.

Then on Sunday, May 18, the women of the ACW will take to the streets with a procession of witness through the streets of the downtown area of Nassau, ending at Christ Church Cathedral, George Street. The ladies will assemble at the Cathedral for a pontifical high mass at 4pm.

From Monday, May 19, to Wednesday, May 21, the ACW will hold its 42nd annual conference sessions at All Saints Parish Activity Centre, Joan’s Height, South Beach.

The women will hear from various speakers covering a variety of topics including: “The Cancer Heredity Gene” by Megan Trotter, genetic counsellor with the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation; “Understanding Value Added Tax (VAT): How It Effects the Small Man and The Church” by John Rolle, financial secretary in the Ministry of Finance, and “The Role of Women In our Church and Society” by President of the Senate. Sharon Wilson

The conference will culminate with a variety concert with members from the ACW branches taking to the stage at All Saints Parish Activity Centre on Wednesday, May 21, at 7pm. Tickets for the documentary showing and the gala ball are available at the Anglican Diocesan Office, Addington House, Sands Road or from ACW presidents.