Page 8 - GraceMail November 2021

A Day to Remember - by Marilyn
Rain was falling as we made our way to Rotherham to share a day together with ladies from our division for a retreat day. Right at the commencement of the day we were made to feel special people. Spending the day in a lovely setting both outside and indoors we were able to relax and enjoy our day, meeting with folk whom we had met before, also meeting new people.
Our Divisional Commander Major Lynn Gibbs was our leader for the day. Our special guest speaker was Major Estelle Blake, a very unique lady totally committed to her work within the Salvation Army, as Territorial Chaplain to Anti- trafficking Modern Slavery Unit, and also Corps Officer at Fitton Hill, Oldham.
We began our day with worship together led by Major Lynn, settling down to receive blessing from our Lord. Through the day we had tea and coffee breaks with biscuits and cakes, we were well cared for by the staff at Hellaby Hall Hotel.
Major Estell then began her time to speak to us of her life within the Army using the book of Esther to illustrate her theme: No matter what crown we wear there is a story behind each one.
She spoke of where she had worked through her officership: Italy and Greece, and back to London to set up Faith House at Kings Cross, and now Oldham. She spoke of how her work had been with people who were exploited and used for others’ benefit to make money, and use them in unpleasant circumstances. We don’t realise just what is happening in our world today. People are being manipulated for sex and slavery, even at some car wash businesses. Everything may seem ok , but some of those workers are being used.
We were told how even body parts, and even babies are sold to make others rich.
It would have been great to have taken more of you to listen to Major Estelle,
8. Grace Mail