From slavery to service

Safiyah* was a domestic slave, used and controlled for the benefit of others. She was made to scrub the floors and make the meals. Sometimes Safiyah was beaten. Her dream of a happy family was a nightmare. Her husband and mother-in-law were her masters.

She longed to escape. But in a culture where divorce creates social and economic exclusion, she agonised about leaving.

Because her work brought in money, Safiyah was allowed to work as a teacher. She loved the children. She loved using her talents. School was respite.

One of her colleagues saw her pain. Rather than keep clear, she gently enquired and patiently cared. Over time, she shared with Safiyah about life with Jesus. Through her sensitive witness, Safiyah became a follower of Jesus and joined a secret church.

‘”Christ changed my life” says Safiyah, “but I saw that the church was generally not good at seeing and caring for vulnerable women, including women who are divorced. Sometimes in the church because we praise healthy families, we leave out these precious women”.

So, I started working with them. I would go and meet them in the markets. I could see them, because I knew their pain.”

Through your support, Safiyah was mentored by local Innovista staff. Now, with her small team, she helps women like her and not only in the city.

In surrounding villages, where conditions are often harsh, they reach these precious women. They connect and care and share their life with Jesus. Some are now following Jesus too. They get them bibles and help them share their faith.

Safiyah’s family also changed beyond recognition. Her husband and children now follow Jesus too.

Innovista’s local mentor says:

* Names and images have been changed, to keep people safe.