Today our women's group met with an organization called "Women at Risk" that devotes their time to uplifting and empowering commercial sex workers by giving them resources on teaching them how to organize and implement their own business to get them off the streets. One very successful business is the chocolate and pastry business spearheaded by a European chef. We also visited a former prostitute's prospering restaurant, and we enjoyed meeting her while she served us refreshments, then we said goodbye and showered her with our prayers and admiration.

Later in the afternoon we met with an organization called Services in Ministry (SIM). They are very concerned for womens' issues and create alignments through the gospel with marginalized women. Among these women, Sandy Cox, the author of "Cut Flowers" has done extensive research on FGM (Female Genital mutilation). 85% to 90% of all woman and girls endure this practice which is very harmful emotionally and physically to women and girls. Sandy's teachings on FGM are meant to educate Ethiopians both men and women through the gospel to eradicate FGM. What an incredible women! We were all moved and delighted to have had the opportunity to meet with all of these incredible women.

To end our evening, the women's track met with ECFE. These women hold high titles in the church; however, at the highest levels, positions held by men, women are not allowed to participate, therefore they are not given a "voice" for women and children. This dynamic only perpetuates the unfair, abusive treatment of women and girls. In the end, we were so elated to hear their concerns and frustrations. We all look forward to building relationships with them and to be a resource for them in any way we can.