The Tribune

Joy International is hosting its annual conference this weekend to promote empowerment and self-empowerment of Christian women.

The "Recharge" conference starts tonight and continues until Saturday at the British Colonial Hilton. The theme this year is "Passion to Continue".

According to organisers, Thursday and Friday night sessions will be power-packed, with the Word being delivered by Evangelist Carnetta Ferguson from Eleuthera, Pastor Cleopatra Williams of Lifechangers Ministries International and guest speaker Dr Lona Copeland-Blake from London, England.

The Friday day session is specially geared towards men and women who wish for a deeper understanding of the prophetic. The Saturday session, meanwhile, will be an intimate chat just for women and will be facilitated by a Senator Dr Mildred Hall, gynaecologist, and Apostle Raymond and Olivia Wells of Living Waters Kingdom Ministries.

"This forum will provide an opportunity for women to be empowered in the area of health and wellness and family life," said organisers.

The conference will culminate with a gala ball on Friday night where 11 "Women of Worth" will be honoured for their contribution to Christian leadership, business and entrepreneurship, mentorship and community development, social outreach and compassionate ministries, and professional and community development.

Joy International was established in 2013 by Joyann Ferguson-Pratt.

Mrs Ferguson-Pratt said she saw a lack of self-development throughout the country and thought it fitting to establish a forum with a main thrust of fostering holistic empowerment. Hence the founding of the Joy International Foundation, which comprises the School of Ministry, a charity and an educational fund.

Joy International is non-denominational and invites followers of all denominations to become a partner. The fellowship ministers beyond the four walls of the church, with a particular interest in social outreach, which to date has included donations to various homes for senior citizens as well as children, and sponsoring of Christmas parties both in Nassau and the Family Islands.

For more information, call 395-5225 or e-mail milixandria@gmail.com.