Women’s Ministries

Adapted from Guidelines for Leading Your Congregation

Identity, Call, and Mission

• The mission of the UMC is to make disciples of Jesus Christ
• Primary task of the UMC is to reach out to people in the name of Jesus Christ, to relate people to God, to nurture and strengthen them in their journey of discipleship, and to send them into the world to be the church – inviting and receiving others in the name of Jesus Christ.
• Leaders in the church must be first, and foremost, spiritual leaders who model and embrace Christian discipline and teaching.
• Leaders use their gifts and talents to enable others to use their gifts and talents to the fullest potential.

As a leader in the UMC you will

• Discover the Current Reality – Where are we now as individuals - as a congregation?
• Name the Shared Vision – What do you want more than anything else in the world?
• As an individual – as a congregation?
• Develop Bridges – Span the gap between Current Reality and the Shared Vision.
• Monitor the Journey – Step back and be with God. Is our journey headed in the right direction?

What is United Methodist Women?

• An organization of women centered in relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
• An integral part of the UMC, authorized by the General Conference.
• Focused on Ministries with women, children and youth.
• Rooted in mission and involved with mission programs locally and globally.
• Pledged to provide financial support for missions through undesignated giving.
• A multiracial/multicultural organization committed to inclusiveness
• A community of women who nurture and encourage one another in their spiritual growth and personal development.

Membership and Expectations – We are organized for mission!

• Open to any woman who indicates her desire to belong and to participate in the outreach mission of the church through the organization.
• Participate in meetings, various events, projects, issues and concerns of the Women’s Division
• Support global mission programs though undesignated giving.
• Participate in community concerns and issues affecting the lives of women and children.
• Accept leadership responsibility.
• Join in intercessory prayer on behalf of others.
• Keep informed of the ongoing concerns and programs of UMW and Women’s Division.
• Study and use resources developed for UMW.
• Engage in critical analysis and active listening while remaining open to differing perceptions and diverse views.
• Participate in the Reading Program..
• Suggest and recommend programs, resources, and activities that increase awareness and understanding of global issues concerning women and children.