Agusiang Zebua is a newly ordained pastor in the Protestant Christian Church (BNKP) on the island of Nias in far western Indonesia. As a new leader, she took part in the Women’s Empowerment course “Exploring Potential through Theological Education, Leadership, Clinical Pastoral Support, and Reconciliation,” put on by the Indonesian National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation.
“This was a valuable experience for me,” she said, especially as I think of how I will be placed as a female leader in a congregation.” This included aspects of the importance of the role of women, starting with the family, church, and society. “Even though women are often considered weak and ignored, it turns out that women have great potential to lead and have a positive impact on the environment in which they live,” she said. “With a strong commitment, a desire to always learn, and a willingness to develop one’s skills, I don’t think it is impossible for women to be empowered and accepted in the church and society.”
Much of the learning during the course happened by listening to female speakers and interacting with other participants. “This gave me an overview of the current state of the church and society, the challenges experienced by women, and how to deal with them,” said Zebua. “This has become a provision, encouragement, and challenge for me in the future to become a pastor in a congregation.” At the same time, through various activities, young women were given space to learn and were encouraged to become the next generation of female leaders.
Reflecting on what she experienced and learned as a woman leader, Zebua noted how the workshop itself was a good example of activities that could be carried out in the congregation itself. “Even the smallest things, such as setting and arrangement of space provides for a comfortable atmosphere and I feel I can take this back to my own place.”
“God bless us; Ya’ahowu [the Nias language greeting],” she said.
