Women are woven into every corner of the Mission in a remarkable, irreplaceable way. We are so thankful to have so many lovely ladies who work, volunteer, and donate so that the ladies and young girls in need can seek refuge and recovery here. In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8th, we asked some of the women who make up the body of the Mission who the most influential and inspirational women in their lives are.
“I have what I call a personal board of directors; some of whom are living, some have passed on. Most are women. Two that I frequently reference for my ministry and life encouragement are: Harriett Tubman (served enslaved descendants of Africans in America) and Corrie Ten Boom (served Jewish holocaust victims in Germany). Each demonstrated Holy Spirit led leadership to fight against and rescue people from systems of death and wickedness. Both walked in the anointing expressed in Isaiah 61:1:
‘The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good new to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.’
I am always humbled and honored to receive from their written testimonies.”
Denise Aikoriegie
“My mother is the most inspirational woman in my life. She took care of our family with grace and patience. She showed me the importance of reading the Bible and trusting God. Because of her love and encouragement, I felt that I could do anything in life.”
Holly Cowherd
“I am inspired by my mother as she has taught me about faith, prayer, and selfless serving. She has always pointed me to Jesus and has challenged me to persevere and continue to walk with Him in the darkest moments of my life. I am blessed to have her in my life and thank the Lord for giving me the privilege to call her Mom.”
Fiona Cherukara
“The most inspirational woman in my life is Nancy Weatherspoon. She is in her late 70s and still on fire for the Lord. She had a stroke several years ago, has limited mobility in right arm, and uses a walker. When most people would say I have done my part let me step aside and take it easy, Ms. Nancy says no, “I am going to serve the Lord for as long as I have life in me.” She is our piano player at church and she is a volunteer chaplain at the women’s jail in Charlotte, TN. Ms. Nancy is the humblest person. She always has a kind word for everyone she encounters. She sends cards just to let you know she is praying for you. Ms. Nancy loves the Lord so much and it shows in everything she does. She is a prayer warrior. I want to Ms. Nancy when I grow up.”
Jean Lazenby
“The most inspirational woman in my life is my daughter. She has had some extreme ups and downs over the last few years. If you don’t know her well, you may look at her and think these experiences have made her fragile. This is not true. These challenging experiences have made her more sensitive on the outside, but stronger on the inside! I am so proud of the young woman she is!”
Lisa Spelta
#WonderfullyMade
In this special time of celebrating women, we want to remind you how your support helps many women and young girls experiencing homelessness feel loved and cared for in a dark and vulnerable time of their life.