Rethinking Women’s Ministries – North Valley Church Changes their Strategy to Reach Women

In the community, Iris Calderon is known for her generosity and kind spirt. As an immigration attorney, Iris has taken countless cases and helped many people over the years. Although she lives a busy life, Iris has always made time to serve the North Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church. 

In 2019, the Women’s Ministries department was in need of a director and Iris did not hesitate to fill the roll. She joined Betty Nevarez, Liliana Graf and Maria Teresa Flores, a talented and hard-working team of leaders. 

“The North Valley Women’s Ministries department has always been very active,” said Calderon. “It has planned regular events and an annual weekend retreat since I can remember. The events focus on coming together to support each other and grow stronger spiritually.”  

Like many ministries, the North Valley Women’s Ministries team had to adjust their plans and change their way of ministering when Covid-19 restrictions made it difficult to meet in-person.

“When the pandemic set in, we knew women were facing a difficult time dealing with stress and emotional issues including isolation,” said Calderon. “We felt the need to reach the women in our church and community the best way we knew how.”

The team turned to Google Meet, an online video platform that allows up to 100 people to participate. On Sept. 3, 2020, the North Valley Women’s Ministries hosted their first of many online meetings. They have hosted experts to discuss topics such as Breast Cancer, Mental Health, Vegan Cooking, Depression, Suicide and Domestic Violence.

“It was my first time using this online platform. But we learned along the way and adjusted. The goal is to host a meeting at least twice a month to discuss difficult, but relevant, topics,” said Calderon. “More importantly, our aim is to share hope and remind those attending that they matter and are not alone.”

Since starting their meetings, the North Valley Women’s Ministries team has seen an increase in participation and have had women join from as far away as Peru, Argentina, Mexico and different part of the United States. 

“It’s amazing to see how God works,” said Calderon. “I love that God is allowing us to reach women beyond our church walls.”

The North Valley Women’s Ministries team looks forward to the day when they will be able to meet in person again, but until then, they will continue to do their part to spread hope and encouragement through their online meetings.