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Larissa Kwong Abazia
Core Class 2009
My first experience with REYWT was the conference held in Louisville, Ky., in 2004. It was amazing to be among other racial ethnic women from across the country. It was there that I had a sense that I was in a space where I was accepted for who I am and not what others define me to be. I met so many young women at that conference who shared their faith journeys; and at the same time, each one of us could resonate with what was shared. I returned home and began reflecting as to how I could be more involved in this ministry. With some encouragement from Cathy Chang, the current REYWT moderator, I decided to apply for a position on the Core Team. I wanted to be involved and connected with racial ethnic young women of the Church, so that we could share our stories and envision the ways that we can have an equal place in ministry. Knowing the challenges facing racial ethnic women, I felt as though I could provide a voice — especially for those of us preparing for ordained ministry in the PC(USA). I have only just started my term on Core, but I look forward to working with others and being personally challenged, too. |
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Micah Rose Emerson
Core Class 2007
I would suggest and recommend serving on Core to every young woman from a racial ethnic background in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). I have served on Core because I believe REYWT can change the world. Serving on Core for REYWT has changed me. My mind has expanded and my heart has grown. I have experienced things that would not have been possible if not for REYWT. I am a better leader and a more humble servant.
I started Core with a hope that we could join our voices and make the
Church hear our concerns. I am leaving Core with the knowledge that the
world is changing because of the young women coming together under Core's leadership. God is truly moving in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Enjoy the ride. |
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Omayra Gonzalez-Mendez
Core Class 2008
I joined REYWT and Core because “predestination” is a reality in my life. God answered my prayer. I remember looking at a brochure in an activity and sending all my information — then I got a call, and REYWT invited me to be part of the team. I could not believe that, because for months I had been praying for an opportunity to serve my church and to be part of a group in which I would help others and grow as Christians. For the past three years, that is what I have been doing.
As a Puerto-Rican, my sense of being racial ethnic is different. In my island, we are all racial ethnic; we are the majority. But, we have immigrants (Cubans, Dominicans, and those from other islands), and I visit United States often. So being part of the group has helped me to understand more women, to fight for their rights and to see the world through their eyes. Also, this experience has helped me to understand the United States culture.
The Church is growing — every day there are more and more immigrants becoming part of the Presbyterian family. I love the idea of helping this church to change its perspective on ministry.
I can’t summarize how REYWT has helped me — educationally, professionally and simply to become who I am. But I am sure that this group is not only changing my life, it is changing the Church as well. Just imagine – this group of Racial Ethnic Young Women Together is working for the Church and, therefore, changing the world. |
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