A total of 16 clergy wives and one lay woman leader in the Diocese of Central Melanesia (DOCM) participated in a ‘Difference’ course held at the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) Provincial Headquarters Conference room on Wednesday 21st to Friday 23rd last week.Amongst the 16 clergy wives were the Archbishop’s wife, Mrs Dorah Dawea and the DOCM Assistant Bishop’s wife, Jenny Gamutu who organised the training and facilitated by Mrs Tagolyn Kabekabe from the ACOM Peace, Justice and Reconciliation Program Facilitator office.
“Difference is a five-session course exploring what it means to follow Jesus in the face of conflict and see transformation through everyday encounters,” Mrs Tagolyn Kabekabe said.
She said ‘Transformation from inside out! A new way of being – new patterns of thinking, praying, speaking and acting. New habits which they can put into practice in all their relationships: with God, with others, with the earth and with ourselves.’
‘The Difference course was delivered to help the women to develop the habits that will enable them to cross divides, learn to disagree well, practise forgiveness and be members of the community God calls them to be. The focus is on formation – on the habits and practises that enable them to realize their own identity as reconcilers in their own unique contexts.’ She added.
‘The 3 Habits are; Be Curious; Be Present; and Reimagine. Rooted in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, these habits can transform everyday relationships. The course gives participants the chance to develop the habits and start applying them in their own lives.’ She explained.
She concluded by saying that Our habits matter. 45% of our daily actions are habitual and neuroscientists have estimated that up to 95% of our behaviours are controlled [at least in part] by the subconscious mind. If we can shape our habits, this can have a deep and lasting impact on our actions, thoughts and ultimately, our character.
It was expected that the workshop would help the participants in supporting their husbands in the ordained ministry of the church.