A non-denominational Christian group, Message of Salvation Women Ministry (MSWM), has distributed food items, clothing and monetary support to more than 500 widows in Kwara State.
The empowerment initiative, which targets widows and other underprivileged women, began in 2005. In about two decades, the ministry has touched the lives of more than 11,000 women, irrespective of their religious affiliations.
During this year’s programme in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, MSWM president, Florence Ajagbe disclosed that the ministry spent over ₦5 million on the initiative. She recounted her divine calling in 2005 to establish the ministry, initially as a counseling and prayer platform for widows and women in general.
“Our mission is to reform women and change lives,” Ajagbe explained. She added that the annual empowerment programme, themed: “Give Them Relief: Programme for Widows,” has grown significantly since its inception.
“I was working with the Ministry of Health in Kwara State when I received the divine call to start this ministry. Reluctantly, I resigned and began by buying airtime on Radio Kwara to counsel and pray for women.
“The ministry, which started with 40 women, has now grown exponentially. We encourage well-meaning Nigerians to spare a thought for widows and the less privileged in our communities,” she said.
Ajagbe noted that despite not seeking government assistance, the ministry remains open to support from any quarters.
One of the beneficiaries, 90-year-old Elizabeth Titcombe, a Catholic, shared her decade-long experience with the ministry. “Through our weekly meetings, we receive counseling and pray for ourselves, our children, and grandchildren,” she said.
Some bags of the food items distributed
Another member, Rachael Abatan, described the spiritual nourishment they receive as a source of comfort, stating, “The word of God we are fed with during meetings is enough succour for us.”
Commending the ministry’s efforts, Rev. Babatomiwa Owojaiye, Senior Pastor at the First Evangelical Church of Winning All (ECWA), highlighted the emotional and spiritual support the group provides.
“This initiative offers more than material assistance, it provides emotional support, counseling, and prayers, which can sometimes mean more than money,” Owojaiye noted.
By Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin
Published by https://thenationonlineng.net
Date : 20th December 2024
