Gate of Life Church brought women of different generations together for a Women’s Day gathering focused on dialogue, fellowship, personal growth and mutual support.
Held on Sunday, 9 August, at the church on Bram Fischer Drive in Randburg, the event was hosted under the theme “Ladies Hangout” and was led by Pastor Basetsana Gaihei.
Young women, mothers and elderly women participated in discussions designed to give women an opportunity to share their experiences, learn from one another and explore some of the pressures facing women across different generations.
One of the questions put to participants was: “What is a modern-day pressure, expectation or stressor that women in your generation face today that you wish older generations understood better?”
The question sparked a wide-ranging discussion, including differing views on marriage, independence, equality and relationships.
Some married women spoke about the value of marriage, companionship and the importance of men and women supporting each other in a relationship. Some younger participants, however, questioned traditional expectations placed on women in marriage and expressed strong views about independence and equality.
Rather than attempting to settle the debate, the gathering provided a space for the different generations to express their perspectives and listen to one another.
Speaking to Cosmo City Chronicle, Pastor Gaihei said women carrying responsibilities across family life, careers and ministry need to establish boundaries and make time for rest.
“I treat my family, corporate and ministry hours as distinct worlds. When I’m at home, I make it a point to be fully present rather than letting work emails or church calls bleed into my personal time,” she said.
She said maintaining boundaries, sharing leadership responsibilities and allowing time for rest were important in avoiding burnout.
Pastor Gaihei also encouraged women going through difficult periods not to view their present circumstances as permanent.
“I want to remind you that a heavy season is a chapter, but not your final destination. When you feel exhausted or disconnected, you have to take it one day at a time,” she said.
She reflected on the important roles women play within families and communities while also acknowledging the contribution of men in women’s lives as fathers, brothers, husbands and other supportive figures.
Gaihei encouraged women to recognise their own value, particularly during periods when life feels overwhelming, and to seek help when they need it.
“Rebuilding hope takes time. Surround yourself with supportive community members and take it easy,” she said.
She added that supportive relationships can be particularly important when someone is struggling emotionally or spiritually.
According to Gaihei, Gate of Life Church uses fellowship gatherings to create spaces for prayer, discussion and multi-generational dialogue around real-life issues.
Topics addressed through these gatherings include career development, personal growth, relationships and spiritual resilience. The church also seeks to encourage mentorship and community involvement.
The congregation has previously conducted clothing and meal initiatives in communities, including outreach activities in Cosmo City, and Gaihei said the church hopes to continue assisting vulnerable residents with the resources available to it.
She said some of the issues raised during the Women’s Day discussion required deeper engagement and could be revisited at future gatherings.
The event ultimately provided women from different generations with an opportunity to exchange experiences and perspectives — including areas where they did not necessarily agree — while encouraging dialogue, support and understanding.