Sex slave saviours to join church leaders
ACOUPLE who helped rescue more than 30 girls from sex trafficking in Cambodia are now helping lead a Southport church.
David and Esther Allen joined Lakeside Church last month and will be officially inducted into their new role on Saturday, September 14.
But their connections go back much longer as the couple have been over to visit and church members have also visited and helped their mission in Cambodia, which began in 2011.
David said: “We started the Be Free Centre for girls who have been rescued from sexual trafficking after we had seen some of
the atrocities taking place and all that these girls were being subjected to.
“At first we didn’t know exactly what to do, simply that we must do something to help them.
“Over the past eight years, it has developed and now there are plans to increase the number of girls who can be supported.
“During the 12 months the girls are with us, through pastoral care, counselling, much love and heaps of encouragement, the Be Free programme helps the girls rebuild their lives and prepare them to work in normal jobs again.”
Esther added: “Amid all we’ve been involved with in Cambodia, our work in Be Free has been the most rewarding experience.
“We have seen young girls’ lives transformed as they start to both understand and experience what true love is and begin, often for the first time, to start believing in themselves.
“Their smiles speak more than words can and their eyes are bright and full of joy.
“The work will continue with the amazing team there.
“We’re now ready for our next challenge here in Southport as we join Lakeside’s leadership team and help bring this same love to those hurting in our town.”
The service, at Lakeside Church, Fairway, starts at 4pm and is open for anyone to attend.