A Sierra Leonean proverb says, "Women are like the ocean; they hold untold treasures within them." The Gospel of Luke gives special attention to the encounters of Jesus with women. Examples are the widow at Nain (7:11-17); the woman caught in adultery (7:36-50); the woman who had the flow of blood (8:43-48); the parable of the widow who persistently sought the attention of the unjust judge (18:1-8). Many cultures around the world relegate women to the background of societal life. Jesus elevated the dignity of women and treated them with the utmost respect. He loved them and recognised the image of God in them. Luke singled out some women whom Jesus helped and ennobled, and who, in turn, accompanied him and supported his ministry. They were: “Mary, called Mag′dalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Jo-an′na, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means” (Luke 8:3). These women were collaborators in the work of evangelisation. As collaborators in the work of evangelisation, women can offer tenderness, patience, and compassion. Women do better, excel, and exhibit their potential where they are valued, treated with respect, and dignity than where they are excluded, disrespected, and abused. Do we respect women as Jesus did? What opportunities do they have in the church and wider society to excel and contribute their talents and resources? Luke 8:1-3; Friday, 24th Week