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	June 2003				'Welcome - table registrations please... L-R Tiny Kennedy, AnneRichardson and Pat Harman (State Secretary)       A welcome cuppa...with Julie Edwards and Stella Stitz (left) North West AWF team Photos - Barbara Bowes
		A good time was had by all, in Jesus' name by Barbara Bowes
			Brilliant, warm sunny days, and a sparkling blue sea welcomed 68 women from all parts of Tasmania to the Christ-centred 35th AWF Conference at St David's Church, Cooee. Speakers encouraged participants to equip themselves and the church for service, supporting this year's AWF theme '. . .through faith, shielded by God's power.' 1 Peter 1:5 Ron Chapman told of the Parakaleo Ministry in PNG, helping to build community awareness to prevent suicide. 'Suicide rates drop dramatically when the community is prepared to discuss the topic as a preventative process; when talk is with passion and commitment.' A creative life Lady Sallie Ferall emphasised the value of a creative life, through flower power. Her story of discovering Christ and the healing power of the Holy Spirit, was revealed as she prepared a flower arrangement. The vase is the Christ foundation; the dark leaves, the dark moments in every life; the golden roses, the refiner's fire, to increase faith. 1 Peter 1:7 Took a chance Lyall and Ethlyn Freshney took a chance, and applied to be the carers at the Roland Boys Home in Sheffield. 'We'll only gain the position, if God intends it,' said the young Freshneys with seven children of their own. God had big plans for them, including twenty years as parent/carers ar Roland. They shared some of the Scripture verses which have special meaning for them: 'Live by faith'; 'things not yet seen' Hebrews 11:7; 'Ask, seek, and you will find.' In Africa Rev. Andrew Lang, in a mission address for CMS/ABM, told of life in Africa with his wife Louise and a young family. 'In Africa the rich are considered blessed. They give back to God; they live near the poor; they look after the poor; they share their resources. So should we!!' Highlight A highlight of the conference was having Maisie Downie and Peg Perry attend. They were the founding President and Secretary of AWF in Tasmania. Maisie passed her position as Patron to Tiny Kennedy. Fellowship flowed, meals were delicious, excursions to the Creative Paper Mill and the Lactos Cheese Factory were well attended during 'free' time. The Anglican Bookroom sold many of the books it offered.