International Women's Day at Fountain Street Church

An International Women’s Day to remember✨

Thanks to all who came out and celebrated with us! We’re deeply grateful to Fountain Street Church for welcoming us into their space. It was especially meaningful for two of our Muslim colleagues to be invited into a church to share freely about their faith and experiences.

Kicking us off, Tamara reflected on a story from Luke 7:44-50 where Jesus sees, bears witness to, and blesses an unnamed woman who others met with judgement.

Tamara beautifully reminded us that “if we give the gift of bearing witness and making a way for peace, we will inevitably gain so much more beauty and flourishing in our own lives and in our communities.”

Tamara Gurley

Next, Amina invited us to remember women who have impacted us deeply, and shared how Somali women “are the heartbeat” of her community. She also reflected on the support and connection she has found at Treetops, through which she has learned that “belonging is something we build together.”

Amina Mukhtar

Taiba spoke with conviction about how her Muslim faith and tradition support gender equality. She also opened up about her decision to begin a new life in the United States, and the hope she has for her children: “If we raise strong daughters and respectful sons, we build a better world.”

Taiba Noori

Tarah closed us out by sharing a Litany to Honor Women from the Book of Common Prayer, invoking the courageous prophets, visionaries, activists, and leaders who have gone before us.

Tarah Carnahan

Thank you to the Grand Rapids Womens Chorus for leading us in song, and to everyone who joined us for refreshments and stopped by the pop-up shop afterward! 💜