by Jeannine Reynolds, mission coordinator of educating members for mission
From our beginning in 1869, it appears to me that United Methodist Women (collectively and individually) has recognized that “the world is our parish” (Wesley’s words were “my parish” in referring to himself). There also seemed to be an understanding that providing a safety net of essential needs for physical survival is just a beginning to addressing other needs. Sending a doctor and a teacher to India to provide medical care and education was our way of sharing our faith in the belief that the emotional well-being of all persons is important.
Providing the means to learn and grow and witness in concrete terms the example set for us by Jesus continues today as we look at the underlying reasons for poverty and oppression, and then work for positive change that would end injustice. This sometimes feels like an impossible task, and requires perseverance, which is probably the reason that United Methodist Women is still a vital force in the United Methodist Church.
Now that is something to Celebrate!!
