Contributed by Marcee Strickland, FBSynod Global Mission Table (Guyana/Suriname Team Chair)

The FB Synodical Women’s Organization held their annual Fall Gathering at Lake Yale November 8-10, 2019.This event is always special, but it was very special this year because there were two guests from our companion churches in Guyana. The theme of the Gathering was “Come to the Table”, and we definitely welcomed Elocia Smith and Stephanie Bowry to the table.  Our guests were welcomed with true Christian fellowship by the Florida women. Both ladies participated fully in all the activities at Lake Yale. Stephanie described it like this:

Thanks for the privilege to move from one amazing table to another. From tables of worship to tables of Bible study to tables of praise and more. Each table was refreshing. There was no table that was not renewing and every last table was enlightening.

The visitors especially liked the entrance that began the gathering. Two members from each conference, including Guyana and Suriname, carried in a pennant with the conference name and a cup of water to pour into a bowl that was used during the communion service.

Both Stephanie and Elocia were given an opportunity to address the gathering.  Elocia talked about Guyana, it’s history and culture, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Guyana.  Stephanie did dramatic readings from some the books she had written.

This gathering and the participation of our two Lutheran sisters from Guyana is one of the best examples I know of companionship and accompaniment. The women on both sides learned more about each other and met in friendship. The only purpose was to strengthen the relationship between our women and our churches.