Glynis Dodd

New South Wales, Australia

I live on the South Coast of New South Wales in Australia, a very beautiful part of the world. I was fortunate to have a Mother who sewed most of my clothes in my childhood and teenage years and who took the time to teach me to sew. I also had a Grandmother who sewed, knitted and crocheted and shared her love of creating with me. I have a large family and sewed for all six of my children, made clothes for myself and now sew for my Grandchildren as well as the occasional special request such as a wedding dress for my niece, bridesmaids dresses for my daughters, school musical production costumes and baby blankets for my children's friends. I love to sew and enjoy creating something useful, practical and well made. Getting involved in the Sew Powerful Ministry has enabled me to use my ability to sew, my love of sewing and my enthusiasm for creativity, in a very worthwhile way that sees me doing my own bit for God's Kingdom.

I always wanted to be a Missionary and share God's love with others but I also believe strongly that our mission field first and foremost is in our own families and communities. Up until two years ago, that was where I served. When I came across the Sew Powerful Ministry something clicked and I felt that I could use my sewing ability to help others. Keeping girls in school to get a good education and improve their options in life is a very worthwhile mission opportunity. I can use my skills to do some "missionary work" from home. I love the fact that the whole ministry includes a farming project and also has the women sustaining their own sewing business which helps them provide for their own families. It is a project that is skilling people to improve their lives and the lives of their families and maintain worthwhile business. They are gaining skills to develop and maintain their food, to sustain the school community, and provide work opportunities. This project isn't about outsiders coming in and "fixing" something they see and then going home again. It is about collaboration with the community to find ways to help and develop skills that can be used to improve the way of life in a very needy community. I love the way the ministry encourages women from all around the world to get involved by sewing the purses for the girls. It is a way that we can be involved in Ministry and still do what we need to do in our homes and families and our local community. The Ministry of Sew Powerful cuts across all denominations and allows us to work together for the common good to help a struggling community. Instead of focusing on our differences we can focus on what we have in common and how those skills can lead to becoming involved in one worthwhile and effective, sustainable project.

I tell people when I get the opportunity all about the Sew Powerful Ministry because I love what I do in my small part and love the unity I feel in doing something very practical with others from all over the world. I am playing my part in making a difference in the world. Thank you for encouraging others in getting involved in a real and practical way and for helping a community help itself.