Martha was honoured at the ceremony by Girls' Brigade patron Margaret Casely-Hayford. Margaret specifically chose Martha because she inspired others by writing about her journey of faith, and sharing why Girls' Brigade means so much to her. She was unable to attend the ceremony, so a video of her talking about what Girls' Brigade means to her was played at the event. Many of the attendees found Martha's words to be very moving. Martha will be presented with her award by Girls' Brigade CEO, Judith Davey-Cole, at an upcoming meeting at her local church.
After becoming Christian in 2024, Martha wrote a letter to describe what her faith means to her.
Martha's letter reads: My name is Martha and I am nine years old. I have been going to church for basically my whole life. I like going to church because I like sharing experiences and news with others as well as listening to others. I have been going to 1st Andover Girls' Brigade since I was 4. I like going to Girls' Brigade because it is such fun and I can learn about Jesus and God. In July 2024, I made the decision to become a Christian. To me, this means to always help people and be kind to others during my lifetime.
'I'm very proud of Martha making the decision alongside her connect group leaders and she takes the responsibility of being a Christian very seriously' - Martha's mum.
The family moved to Andover from Harrow in London in 2019 and Martha joined Girls' Brigade shortly after. Since her first meeting, Martha has adored Girls' Brigade, looking forward to every meeting!
Andover Methodist Church celebrated their 200th anniversary in 2024. Martha entered the photo competition titled 'What does Andover mean to you?', and won first prize with a picture of the church where her Girls' Brigade meetings are held!
Martha's mum says 'Girls' Brigade has been amazing for my daughter and has given her the confidence to meet with other young ladies, have a Bible story explained and achieved badges in a calm and supportive group. We are very grateful to Marian, Lesley, Ann, and the other helpers who keep Girls' Brigade running and give up many hours of their time to make Girls' Brigade a very special group for all who attend.'
Martha's journey of faith is a testament to how Girls' Brigade provides support and guidance for young people, not just by offering an opportunity to make friends and have fun, but also spiritually. Marian, Team Leader at 1st Andover, says 'Boys' and Girls' Brigade are very often the only contact the young people have with Christianity. The leaders bring Christian and moral teaching into the young people's lives and hopefully, both leaders and young people will be supported and encouraged by the local church.' At Girls' Brigade, we are proud to be a part of young people's journeys in finding their faith, and always strive to provide them with a safe space to ask questions and learn about Christianity. Without fantastic volunteers like Marian, this wouldn't be possible. We are happy to have been able to recognise Martha at our recent awards ceremony, to read more about the inspiring award recipients click here.
