The Estevan Trinity Lutheran Women's Group held their semi-annual conference in the church auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 14.The event featured a presentation from educator Jan Park who explained some of the differences and similarities between the Middle East and Canada with regards to culture, religion and educational systems. Park, who has taught in Kuwait and Oman for several years, explained how Islamic values parallel Christian practices since they also preach and practice respect for others. She noted how harsh strands of the Muslim world lead to acts of terrorism, but assured her audience that true followers of Islam never condone those activities. The teacher/traveller informed the gathering about cultural and business events, how Western women can fit in and work in a vastly different political and social regime and still be successful. Park was introduced and thanked by the group's president Linda Hanson of Estevan who welcomed visiting delegates from Weyburn, North Portal, Lampman, Midale, Torquay, Crosby, N.D., as well as several other communities. The breakfast portion of the opening session included food that might be found on a typical table in the Middle East. A lively question and answer period followed the presentation before the delegates broke into working groups for the continuation of their program.
