Touching Ladies for Christ (TLC) is a new ministry in Malawi which seeks to help rape victims and encourage sexual purity among girls. OTULI MUNLO of The Sunday Times spoke to Mary Banda, the founder and head of the Blantyre-based ministry.

Q: Tell me about the background of this ministry?

A: TLC is indeed my brainchild, formed last year when God touched my heart to help girls struggling with sexual immorality, and rape victims. There is need for society to do something for such people, so God placed a passion in my heart to reach out and make a diference, not only in the lives of those who are living in this bondage but, in the nation as a whole. We are six young ladies who are leading TLC.

Q: When are you launching this Ministry?

A: We are hoping for next month when the final touches have been completed.

Q: What exactly do you want to achieve?

A: The Ministry is aimed at helping rape victims and also encouraging sexual purity amongst girls .We want to help rape victims because rape can have an adverse impact on life if the situation is not dealt with properly, meaning if you don't have the right person to talk to or get the right help.

The ministry will equip the girls with biblical knowledge by inspiring, motivating and empowering them in areas of their strength so that they are confident in themselves.

We are passionate about instilling practical wisdom in them so they can make the right choices in their relationships as well as issues of everyday life and to be courageous enough to live a life that's pleasing to God and to be an example to others.

Q: What type of ministry is this; or, are you simply an NGO?

A: This ministry is a Bible-based organization, though it is open to everyone, our foundation is the Word of God. We are not an NGO per say, but our goal is to spiritually help girls and women to open up and not feel ashamed of what has happened to them or to shy away thinking that no one will believe them.

I'd also like to make a special mention and thank Steers and Debonnaires for their kindly contribution to this ministry.

The overall message we are sending is that you don't have to go through this alone because you are special and God has a purpose for your life; so, feel free to be a part of this ministry.

Q: Will people openly know who are your members?

A: No, we shall guarantee 100 percent confidentiality. No one will be exposed, our desire is to help each individual and give them the love, support and the help they deserve. It will be a ministry with a difference.

Q: What has been the response so far from those who know your existsence?

A: We have received overwhelming feedback. This is why we have been planning for the official launch. We have received some sponsorship for purity rings.

Q: What are purity rings?

A: These are rings that we will give to those who are committing to living a life of purity from this point on, to encourage them to remain pure until marriage and know how to handle themselves until the time for marriage is ripe for them.

We are simply encouraging girls to wait for sex until marriage. We are encouraging parents and the community to reach out to girls because most of them don't seem to have confidence in life.