UMW: Feeding the Choir for 40 Years
By Emma King
On December 15th, the United Methodist Women honored the Chancel Choir with dinner between the choir’s 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm performances of two major works by Mark Hayes, “Magnificat” and “Gloria.” UMW has been hosting this dinner for around 40 years. But why the United Methodist Women and who are they?
UMW is a society of women which began in 1869 when eight different denominations first organized in Boston in response to a lack of women’s health in India. Since then it has evolved into one of the world’s largest women’s organizations. The purpose of UMW is a community of women whose goal is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, to develop a creative, supportive fellowship, and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church. Hosting dinner for the choir is just one of the mission’s of UMW.
What has Foothills UMW accomplished?
This year alone they gave $13,808.03 to various missions such as La Roca, Calexico Neighborhood House, Good Neighbor Centers, Storefront, UMCOR (through health kets), Metro, Kairos Prison Ministry, Foothills Interfaith Shelter and the Foothills Youth, just to name a few.
Where do the funds come from to aid these organizations?
They are received through pledges, craft sales, rummage sale, etc. Also, on January 27 we will have UMW Sunday, where the complete service is handled by the UMW. There are also circles for study and crafts, and a reading program. You don’t have to get involved with every aspect of UMW, but if any of these programs interests you, we would love to
have you join us. See Marion Van Diggelen or Emma King for more information.