I just returned from Rome, where I met with the dynamo leaders of the Italian Baptist Women. For a number of years, they have had a powerful vision to start a project for women who have been victims of violence, but haven't been able to make the vision a reality. Their vision is particularly exciting for me to participate in, because it is one of the few examples in the world of a church body involving themselves with women who have been "in the shadows." Individuals, not church communities, have initiated most projects I've witnessed.

Some of the women on the executive committee are pastors who have needed a safe place for women they have counseled, and have simply had to take them into their own homes for a period of time. But now they want to do more, to offer a "holistic" ministry of spiritual and psychological healing, in addition to economic and legal aid.

Italy has many problems with illegal immigrant women who are trafficked into the country for prostitution, as well as issues of family violence. The needs are great, and now the Baptists want to respond. But they are a minority in this country---with just 100 churches, most of which have fewer than 100 members each. Their vision is far-reaching and exciting---and greatly exceeds their resources. But they have faith that God will provide what they need and clear away the roadblocks. It is possible that partnerships can be developed with other international Baptist organizations, which would help to turn the dream into a live ministry. We promised each other to pray daily for guidance in the further planning of the project and will meet again in another 2-4 months. Your prayers will also be important to us!

Rev. Lauran D. Bethell