By: W. Mark Koenig
An emphasis on education, and on free public education, has been a hallmark of churches that stand in the Reformed tradition since the days of John Calvin.
The Presbyterian parallel event at the 60th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women focused on the role of education in breaking cycles of poverty, particularly for women.
A panel presentation lifted up ways Presbyterians support education in Kenya, Aotearoa New Zealand, the United States and around the world.
Beth Olker, Field Staff for Presbyterian College Women & Young Women’s Ministries, Racial Ethnic & Women’s Ministries, Presbyterian Mission Agency, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) moderated the panel.
Panel members were:
Wanda Beauman, Vice Moderator for Justice and Peace Concerns, Churchwide Coordinating Team, Presbyterian Women Inc., in the Presbyterian Church USA
Carol Grant, United Nations Convenor, Presbyterian Women Aotearoa New Zealand
Veronica Muchiri, National Women’s Guild Organizer/Secretary, Presbyterian Church of East Africa
Frank Dimmock, Catalyst Addressing the Root Causes of Global Poverty, Presbyterian World Mission, Presbyterian Mission Agency, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A)
A discussion followed with attendees sharing additional ways to educate girls and women.