Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer

Eileen Clemetson, national director - central area of Aglow International Caribbean Region. - Andrew Smith/Photography Editor

For the past 21 years and counting, the local arm of Aglow International, an interdenominational Christian organisation for women, has provided support, education, training and ministry opportunities to Jamaican women in an atmosphere of Christian fellowship.

Heading the national outreach, and a segment of the regional outreach, is Eileen Clemetson, the national director for Jamaica and regional director for Aglow in the Central Caribbean, with Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico in her portfolio.

Mrs. Clemetson formed part of the foundation for Aglow Jamaica in 1985 when the first local chapter was established, and 21 years later she provides direction for the body in carrying out their mandate.

She has given service at many different levels in the organisation, first as a prayer counsellor/intercessor, then as vice-president of the Kingston chapter, then president of the East Area Board, before being appointed to the posts she now holds.

"The idea is to ensure that all women come to a full relationship with Jesus Christ," explains Mrs. Clemetson.

Charitable projects

Aglow's work is not limited to ministry but they also take on charitable projects to provide material assistance for persons who need it. This includes visiting the island's hospitals, penal institutions and places of safety for women, children and the elderly, with the aim of combating negativity using Christian principles.

These outreach programmes are largely funded out of the pockets of the members.

They also conduct leadership training for women, preparing them for leadership roles within Aglow and in life.

Membership is open to all who wish to join, and "to become a member one has to only attend the meetings of any chapter," explains Mrs. Clemetson. Unlike many other elitist outreach groups that require deep pockets and high social standing for comfortable membership, Mrs. Clemetson asserts that Aglow is open to women of all economic standings and social strata. "We are not biased on who joins", she says; "if you are a lawyer, doctor, domestic helper or shopkeeper, we will welcome you."

About Aglow

Aglow International operates in 165 countries and has 4,600 chapters worldwide, with an estimated 21,000 leaders ministering to approximately 17 million people.

The Jamaican arm has 14 chapters islandwide. Aglow's 12th biennial Caribbean Regional Conference takes place at Rose Hall Resort and Country Club from November 16-18.