The Mexico Western District hosted its first women’s conference 15 March, titled Conectadas (Connected). This event brought together 220 women to reaffirm the importance of maintaining a deep connection with God and one another.

Conectadas was born in the heart of Gabriela Nuño, former president of the district's Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) ministry. Despite stepping down for health reasons, she didn't allow this to hinder her vision. With great determination, she entrusted the organization to a committed team that brought the congress to a successful conclusion. What began with an expected 150 participants exceeded all expectations, reaching 220 women in attendance.

The conference offered a carefully designed program to address the different life stages of the attendees. Participants were divided into age groups—adults, young adults, and older adults—and received lectures focused on their specific needs.

The congress featured presentations by a distinguished group of leaders and speakers, including Juanita de la Cruz, Gabriela Nuño, Paulina Hernández, and many others who enriched the event, such as Nelly Valadez, Aurora Toro from the Jalisco region, Mireya Belmonte, Rut Belmonte, Noemí Román, Ruth Arteaga, Rebeca Arteaga, and Mildred Magdaleno.

"The Lord manifested himself in each of these women, providing for their diverse needs. The Holy Spirit spoke to their hearts, healing emotions and wounds," said Paulina Hernández of the Western District NDI ministry. 

She also shared that the women were challenged to deepen their search for God through prayer, fasting, Bible reading, and empathy with other women, always holding God's name high before those around them.

Brenda Fajardo, one of the participants, said the conference was a great blessing. 

"I heard messages that strengthened my relationship with God and with women," she said. "I came away deeply blessed to hear the testimonies of dedicated women who, despite difficulties, continue to serve God with joy."

Another participant, Laura Mercado, shared what she learned. 

"The Conectadas conference taught me not to feel guilty about situations beyond my control. I learned that even though I can't handle everything, God can. I also understood the importance of always staying connected to him."

Carolina Ledesma also highlighted her experience.

"Each conference addressed a need in my life and gave me confidence in the things God had already placed on my heart. In addition to spending time with other women, God confirmed to me that I am measurable to him."

The Church of the Nazarene in the Mesoamerican Region continues to work hard in women's ministry, fostering spaces that allow women to be edified, healed, and strengthened to impact their communities with God's love.

--Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region