One on one with Glory Parry from the COSMOS Team

Gloria Parry

It's just great being around Gloria. She is a 'fun' lady and has such an appreciation of life. She led everyone in the morning stretching exercises and prayed for folk in the 'prayer room'.

M.M: How long have you been with COSMOS?
G.P: This is our 3rd trip. I started in 2009. We missed 2010 because I had breast cancer. We then came out here again in 2011 and 2012.


M.M: You speak about 'we'. Are you married to someone on the team?
G.P: Yes - to Doctor Cliff. We've been married for 31 years and we don't have children of our own.


M.M: Which part of Australia do you come from?
G.P: 70km South of Perth.


M.M: Which church do you attend?
G.P: Mandurah Baptist Church. We've been there since 1994 and it's led by Pastor Hans Van Assalt


M.M: What have been some of the highlights on your Zim trips?
G.P: Meeting warm people who inspite of their suffering have a hope, cheerfulness and generosity which just shines through. I'm amazed at the deep christian faith. People are not in despair. They have a resiliance. I also love the physical stature of the women. Despite their poverty, they look glamourous and poised especially when they are carrying loads on their heads. I love seeing the animals, the open spaces, the history of the place, the beauty of God's creation is outstanding in Africa. I love being able to buy organic veges which are cheap and in abundance and I love being able to pray with people. people actually want you to pray with them which is wonderful.

Gloria about to lead the morning exercises

M.M: Excellent! Any challenges you'd like to share?
G.P: The biggest challenge is having the electricity turned off and the indoor creatures like spiders in my bedroom and bugs in my handbag. Seeing all the suffering and being able to do so little is a challenge.


M.M: What did you think of the service at Crossroads?
G.P: It was challenging, educative and humourous. Our churches in Australia could take great lessons. Steve taught about the need for holiness which is so often 'watered down' or ignored totally. he is also interactive and draws people out. It was so interesting and we were blessed. We loved it!


M.M: Fantastic! Great chatting to you Gloria. Have a wonderful stay in Zimbabwe.

Here she goes!!!

By Molly Manhanga