Two weeks later Ms. Somasundram took part in Samantha's wedding to Mr. Neil Blest, though she was not allowed to officiate. This office, which applies equally to male and female ministers, allows for virtually all of the functions of a pastor, though at the discretion of the local conference president. Women ministers are not ordained within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, though leaders recognize that women bring special skills and insights to the office. I see my role as trying to relate a God who is both male and female. Speaking on the practicalities of being a woman minister she pointed out the need for female parishioners to have someone they can talk to.
Domestic violence is a problem, even in Christian homes.
Many women I know appear to have perfect marriages but are actually under a lot of pressure. They know they can talk to me. Before, she served as a ministerial intern and latterly as an associate pastor. According to Arthur, decision regarding renovation work on the buildings in the capital, Tirana, is awaited from the mayor's office in mid-August. The agency's main emphasis will most likely switch from the distribution of material goods to community development, according to Arthur.