Birthing Newcastle Night Aglow

Even though I had always been “around” Newcastle Day Aglow, I was never able to attend as I was single and working full time. When Pam Ward, the NSW Rep for National Aglow, came to Newcastle to encourage an evening Aglow, she told me she believed it would be birthed in prayer first. Nine months later, the baby was birthed. Right at the end, Maureen, Jenny and Carol joined Mary and me for prayer. It was then the Lord spoke to me and said, “You have the women you need to begin.” That was in 1982. Now, this “baby” is 43 years old this September.

With a committee of five, we held our inaugural meeting. There were five others present. Out of that group, Judy became our secretary, and Thelma and Elaine went on to be the next two Presidents (Zechariah 4:8–10).

The following month, I flew to Niagara Falls for the International Conference. What an unforgettable experience that was! I was deeply moved during the roll call of nations—so proud to see our Australian flag, but even more impacted by the faith of women from communist countries who marched under a white flag.

Other international highlights included meeting incredible women like a future USA National President, and later Marsha, who invited me to speak at her Loveland Aglow in Colorado. That connection even led me to join Jerusalem Aglow in 1998/99, where I attended my last meeting in a bomb shelter under a Baptist church.

Over the years, Newcastle Night Aglow has hosted many wonderful speakers and ministries. But its true hallmark has been the deep, long-term friendships and prayer support that have grown within it. Faithful women like Brigita, a dedicated intercessor, and Gayle, who has served for 20 years, are just a few examples.

I believe Aglow brings a fulfilment in ministry like no other. I want to thank all the past Presidents—Elaine, Marjorie, Barbara, Pauline, and now Maggie—along with their committees, for their faithful service and commitment to God through Newcastle Night Aglow.

Josie Leslie,

First President of Newcastle Night Aglow