news Volume 7 | Number 4 | 2014
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Volume 7 | Number 4 | 2014 news From the General Secretary Small Pillow, Big Difference When We Are Retired Missionary Jerri Savuto fnds comfort Our Best and healing in handmade, love-made pillows. by Harriett Jane Olson by Jerri Savuto I hat will United Methodist recently visited an W Women look American Cancer So- like in 50 years? How will ciety of fce located at we operate? What will our Texas Health Presbyte- priorities be? rian Hospital in Plano, When a friend asked Texas, to choose a free me that recently, I thought wig, as the chemotherapy about our aspirations—our treatments I am undergo- buttons—and what we ing to treat cancer have are when we are at our caused me to lose my best. Imagine a United hair. While there the lovely Methodist Women that is woman who took care of a primary place of identity I imagine a welcoming, my daughter and I asked for women in The United equipped, leader-flled and if I had a port (a small Methodist Church no mat- talent-rich organization medical appliance inserted ter what their frst language responding to the needs beneath my skin near my is. Our resident population of women, children and chest that holds a cathe- and our United Methodist youth in every community Courtesy Jerri Savuto Jerri Savuto, left, with her daughter, Corrie Kern, as she undergoes chemotherapy treatment in October 2014. Her pillow was made by United Methodist Women in Frisco, Texas. Harriett Jane Olson ter connected to a vein to make chemotherapy treat- ments easier and more comfortable). She asked if I could use a small pillow Church membership will and all around the world. I continue to be enriched imagine that this response world; I imagine a future in analysis of current issues which their ability to speak and givi by people from all over the comes out of critical ng resources, to place over my port while wearing a seat belt. Be- fore I could say anything my daughter stated that I always held the seat belt out, away from my chest, and it would be great. I was given the oppor- tunity to choose one I liked. I was thrilled. The staff woman also told me about heart-shaped pillows that woman with breast cancer use. I asked if I could see and try one as I have a col- lapsed lung and have trou- ble sleeping on my left side, the side I normally did sleep Jerri Savuto on. I tried the pillow and it was perfect for helping me to get comfortable. I again chose which one I wanted (chili peppers!). When I got the pillows home and my daughter, granddaughter and I were unpacking them we noticed a note on them. The note stated that the pillows were made by the United Meth- odist Women of First United Methodist Church Frisco in Frisco, Texas. I was so pleased and excited as I felt that connection and knew what those pillows mean to so many woman. And I am so grateful to the women who sew and cre- ate these pillows in cheerful colors and patterns, and I cannot adequately ex- press how much I am using them and how they have helped me in the car and sleeping in bed and on the recliner. What a wonderful ministry. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your work means so much to others. Help to sleep is huge, as is to wear your seat belt! Jerri Savuto is a retired missionary with the General Board of in the language of their hearts is something that draws women to United Methodist Women. I also imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every ra- cial and ethnic group know that they are viewed as welcome sisters and that their gifts of leadership, service and advocacy are welcomed. I imagine that we get better and better at observing cultural differ- ences appreciatively and incorporating the gifts of leaders who operate with many different styles. I imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every generation are welcome, valued and offer leadership offering service and advocating for changing systems so that all can thrive. In other words: Listening and responding to God. Can you see it? The problem with dreaming a big dream is that you are challenged to make it come true. What must I learn to make it happen? Who must I partner with? Who new must I listen to? United Methodist Women, let’s dream big, and let’s take a few steps today toward our dream for the United Methodist Women of 50 years from now. Harriett Jane Olson is the port pillow works even Global Ministries of The United that the whole organization General Secretary and CEO of better than my neck pillow Methodist Church currently appreciates. United Methodist Women. for recliner naps! living in McKinney, Texas.
Transcript of news Volume 7 | Number 4 | 2014
United Methodist Women News - Volume 7, Number 4, 2014Volume 7 |
Number 4 | 2014
news From the General Secretary Small Pillow, Big Difference When We Are
Retired Missionary Jerri Savuto finds comfort Our Best and healing in handmade, love-made pillows.
by Harriett Jane Olson
I hat will United Methodist
recently visited an W Women look American Cancer So- like in 50 years? How will ciety office located at we operate? What will our Texas Health Presbyte priorities be? rian Hospital in Plano, When a friend asked
Texas, to choose a free me that recently, I thought wig, as the chemotherapy about our aspirations—our treatments I am undergo buttons—and what we ing to treat cancer have are when we are at our caused me to lose my best. Imagine a United hair. While there the lovely Methodist Women that is woman who took care of a primary place of identity I imagine a welcoming, my daughter and I asked for women in The United equipped, leader-filled and if I had a port (a small Methodist Church no mat- talent-rich organization medical appliance inserted ter what their first language responding to the needs beneath my skin near my is. Our resident population of women, children and chest that holds a cathe and our United Methodist youth in every community
C ou
rt es
y Je
o
Jerri Savuto, left, with her daughter, Corrie Kern, as she undergoes chemotherapy treatment in October 2014. Her pillow was made by United Methodist Women in Frisco, Texas.
Harriett Jane Olson
ter connected to a vein to make chemotherapy treat ments easier and more comfortable). She asked if I could use a small pillow
Church membership will and all around the world. I continue to be enriched imagine that this response
world; I imagine a future in analysis of current issues which their ability to speak and givi
by people from all over the comes out of critical
ng resources, to place over my port while wearing a seat belt. Be fore I could say anything my daughter stated that I always held the seat belt out, away from my chest, and it would be great.
I was given the oppor tunity to choose one I liked. I was thrilled. The staff woman also told me about heart-shaped pillows that woman with breast cancer use. I asked if I could see and try one as I have a col lapsed lung and have trou ble sleeping on my left side, the side I normally did sleep
Je rr
ut o
on. I tried the pillow and it was perfect for helping me to get comfortable. I again chose which one I wanted (chili peppers!).
When I got the pillows home and my daughter, granddaughter and I were unpacking them we noticed a note on them. The note stated that the pillows were made by the United Meth odist Women of First United Methodist Church Frisco in Frisco, Texas. I was so pleased and excited as I felt that connection and knew what those pillows mean to so many woman. And
I am so grateful to the women who sew and cre ate these pillows in cheerful colors and patterns, and I cannot adequately ex press how much I am using them and how they have helped me in the car and sleeping in bed and on the recliner. What a wonderful ministry. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your work means so much to others. Help to sleep is huge, as is to wear your seat belt!
Jerri Savuto is a retired missionary with the General Board of
in the language of their hearts is something that draws women to United Methodist Women.
I also imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every ra cial and ethnic group know that they are viewed as welcome sisters and that their gifts of leadership, service and advocacy are welcomed. I imagine that we get better and better at observing cultural differ ences appreciatively and incorporating the gifts of leaders who operate with many different styles.
I imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every generation are welcome, valued and offer leadership
offering service and advocating for changing systems so that all can thrive. In other words: Listening and responding to God.
Can you see it? The problem with dreaming a big dream is that you are challenged to make it come true. What must I learn to make it happen? Who must I partner with? Who new must I listen to?
United Methodist Women, let’s dream big, and let’s take a few steps today toward our dream for the United Methodist Women of 50 years from now.
Harriett Jane Olson is the port pillow works even Global Ministries of The United that the whole organization General Secretary and CEO of better than my neck pillow Methodist Church currently appreciates. United Methodist Women. for recliner naps! living in McKinney, Texas.
2 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Prophetic Witness at the White House United Methodist Women members protest family deportations on Capitol Hill in an act of civil disobedience.
by Tequila Minsky
U including gangs extorting protection money. There is
nited Methodist no justice system to go to in Women members their countries.” joined more than The women Ms. John
100 immigration advocates son met in the course of for a day of advocacy that her work came from Hon included civil disobedience duras, Guatemala and El in Washington, D.C., July Salvador. 31. Among those arrested Ms. Carter came to in the civil disobedience the event with her retired action were Deaconess husband, the Rev. Brian Cindy Andrade Johnston Carter, in response to a call of Brownsville, Texas; from the General Board of Rita Carter, social action Church and Society for the coordinator for Iowa Con “No More Deportations” ference United Methodist campaign to put pressure Women; and Janice Gint on President Obama to zler, social action coordi- stop the deportations. nator for Illinois Conference “We had a caravan of United Methodist Women. three cars, 10 adults and
The “Prophetic Witness two children, driving from at the White House” start- Des Moines—24 hours ed early with morning civil the hardships that families Ms. Johnson works straight to Washington,” disobedience training that endured from their status.” with immigrants and asy- Ms. Carter said. “I believe packed the meeting room Ms. Johnson said the lum seekers with nonprofits the time is now to speak at the United Methodist U.S. government is “play- along the border. The num- up for immigrants. Lots of Building, just steps from the ing politics” rather than ber of teachers, accoun- people have spoken out, Capitol. By the end of the enacting just immigration tants and other profession- but there is so little action.” day, 112 had been arrested policies, particularly in als among the refugees Both Ms. Johnson outside the White House in the current crisis in which she has encountered in her and Ms. Carter say United a peaceful action protesting many are seeking asylum work has surprised her. Methodist Women’s long- President Obama’s depor- as refugees. “Our gov- “The coyotes [high- time advocacy and educa tation policies and calling ernment says our borders ly paid border crossing tion around just immigration for just immigration reform. are not secure. Not true. guides] target people who reform helped prepare
“The morning train- The people coming across can pay,” she said. “The them for the day’s action. ing was reassuring,” Ms. are turning themselves in. women I spoke with have “It focused me on the issue Johnson said of the session They’re fleeing violence in had violence directed to- and helped me understand that included prayer, legal their country,” she said. ward them or their families, how important it is to keep guidance, logistics and going,” Ms. Carter said. step-by-step description of Seventeen-year-old the planned arrests. “The Kaija Carter (no relation) action went like clockwork. of Iowa also participated Once at the police station, it in the protest. “I’m tired of took 45 minutes.” seeing friends and family
Ms. Johnson, a second being torn apart,” she said. generation American from “I come to stand together Mexico, participated in the with these people of faith action after years of wit- and push for the accep nessing the impact of U.S. tance of all people.” immigration policies in her For Ms. Gintzler, par- work. ticipating in the Capitol Hill
“I was a teacher for 30 action meant a 24-hour bus years, from elementary to ride to Washington, D.C., high school,” Ms. Johnson to witness to her United said. “A lot of my students Methodist faith. This was not were undocumented or her first act of civil disobe part of their family was dience—Ms. Gintzler was undocumented. I witnessed arrested in Chicago while
Deaconess Cindy Andrade Johnson from Brownsville, Texas, is placed in handcuffs during an act of civil disobedience to protest unjust deportations in July 2014.
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United Methodist Women members Janice Gintzler, left, and Rita Carter, right, attend civil disobedience training at the United Methodist building in Washington, D.C. in July 2014.
protesting the Keystone Pipeline last year—but getting arrested nonetheless stretched her comfort zone. While protesting in the day’s hot sun and waiting through three amplified warnings from the police before they were actually arrested, “I was thinking about Jesus on the cross,” Ms. Gintzler said.
While waiting to be arrested, Ms. Gintzler met a young woman DREAM er, a person with tempo rary legal status afforded minors in school based on the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. More than two dozen of those arrested were undocu mented. “This takes ex treme bravery for someone undocumented and those temporarily documented to participate in civil disobe dience and get arrested,” Ms. Gintzler said.
Despite Ms. Johnson’s years of working with immigrants—and more re cently asylum seekers—the ecumenical day of witness revved up her commitment to work for immigration justice.
“The civil disobedi ence action reinforced my resolve, particularly along side all these people and faith leaders acting in the same way,” Ms. Johnson said. “I’m going back to the work I do with energy and renewed commitment.”
United Methodists traveled to the ecumenical action from Mississippi, Iowa, California, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Virginia, Tex as, Hawaii, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Tequila Minsky is a freelance photojournalist based in New York, N.Y.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 3
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Talking About “The Things That Make for Peace” United Methodist Women and partners host an International Day of Peace symposium at the Church Center for the United Nations.
by Linda Bloom
W hen the U.N. Peace Bell rang across
the street from the United Methodist-related Church Center for the United Nations, those gathered in the center’s chapel rang their own small bells in response.
Video clips of peo ple ringing bells from the Philippines to the Dem ocratic Republic of Con go followed, along with messages of peace. One video message from an Iraqi woman pleaded for urgent international ac tion for those suffering in her country. “Let’s build up peace in Iraq that will enhance world peace,” she said.
The U.N. General Assembly has declared the International Day of Peace, celebrated on or near Sept. “We will share and examine trator of the United Nations see these conflicts taking 21, “to be a day devoted what are those things that Development Program, scarce resources away to strengthening the ide- make for peace, real peace, had just returned from a from development and als of peace, both within peace that can last.” visit to Lebanon, where the costing developing coun and among all nations and spillover effects of conflict tries hundreds of millions peoples.” Growing Out of Conflict are threatening to engulf of dollars a year.”
To mark the day, Unit- yaradzayi Gum- that small country. Women and girls also ed Methodist Women bonzvanda, top Currently, Lebanon’s are bearing the costs of and other religious and executive of the population of under 4.5 conflict, said Lakshmi Puri,N nongovernmental groups World YWCA and moder- million is hosting just under deputy executive director organized a symposium, ator for the morning event, 1.2 million refugees. “Per for UN Women. “The Things That Make for grew up in rural Zimba- capita, it hosts far more “Women continue to be Peace.” Morning speakers bwe during the war. “I am refugees than any other disproportionately affected and afternoon workshops a daughter of conflict,” country in the world,” Ms. by conflict situations and focused on the intersection she said. “I know what Clark noted. “And there are often excluded from of basic needs—food, wa- it means.” are huge concerns there development planning … ter and health—with issues She also recognizes over whether the country’s despite the fact that wom of gender, climate insecurity what can help end such stability will hold with the en head, on an average, and conflict. conflict. “I lead a glob- Syria conflict continuing 40 percent of households
“Today, we’re empha- al market of 25 million and spilling over into Leba- in post-conflict settings,” sizing the inextricable links women and girls,” she non itself. she said. of peace and just develop- explained. “Their everyday “We see, as you do, Women’s knowledge, ment,” said Harriett Jane work is one of the things peace and stability as a wisdom and commitment Olson, top executive of that make peace happen.” prerequisite for human de- to future generations, Ms. United Methodist Women. Helen Clark, adminis- velopment,” she said. “We Puri pointed out, is what
“makes them such critical peacemakers and peace- builders, but also conflict preventers.”
Week of Action in New York
T he symposium marks the begin ning of a week of
action before the open ing of the United Nations General Assembly’s 69th Session, including the Peoples Climate March Sept. 21, the World Con ference on Indigenous Peoples, Sept. 22-23, and the U.N. Climate Summit, Sept. 23.
“Everything discussed there will have a bearing on whether our world is capa ble of building a peaceful, equitable and just future,” Ms. Clark said.
But Bill McKibben, a United Methodist and well-known activist from Middlebury, Vermont, calls next week’s gathering of world leaders “the side show to the main event.”
More important, he told symposium participants, was Sunday’s climate march in midtown Manhat tan. “It’s going to be by far the largest demonstration about climate change the world has ever seen,” he said. “It’s going to be filled, among other things, with people of faith.”
Mr. McKibben, whose 350.org movement is one of the march’s organizers, said that a video mes sage from former South African Archbishop Des mond Tutu and a call from Cardinal Timothy Dolan for area Catholics to join the march shows “a spirit moving and it is beautiful to see.”
Linda Bloom is a United Methodist News Service multimedia reporter based in New York. Follow her at www.twitter.com/umcscribe or contact her at (646) 369 3759 or newsdesk@umcom. org. This article first appeared Sept. 19, 2014, on umc.org. Reprinted with permission.
4 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Mission u in Minnesota Minnesota Conference United Methodist Women host Mission u.
by Theresa Riecke
T he Minnesota Con ference Mission u was held in July at
St. John’s University in Col legeville, Minnesota. Since the switch from School of Christian Mission to Mission u we have used Mission u: Learning Together for the Transformation of the World as our theme. C
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We offer two ways to Worship setting for the 2014 Minnesota Conference Mission u. of the event also allows us and took part in a panel participate in Mission u: a participants to explore the discussion on people with more traditional “school” campus, where they may disabilities and their view that gives everyone eight participants in the studies offers participants a re view the St. John’s Bible, on how the church can be hours in two studies and a offered: How Is It With Your laxed atmosphere in which visit the pottery studio, more inclusive. one-day event that offers Soul? The Church and they can participate in dif- go swimming or view one and a half hours in all People With Disabilities ferent activities in addition the sapling sculpture by three studies. Our study and The Roma of Europe. to the studies. Participants environmental artist Patrick Theresa Riecke is the dean of leaders led about 180 Our traditional school can visit the bookstore Dougherty. Minnesota Conference Mission u.
remember attending Schools of Christian Mission, includ ing Eastern Pennsylvania Conference United Methodist Women President Barbara Drake, whose mother was dean in 1957.
The first night’s worship focused on The Church and People With Disabilities: Awareness, Accessibility and Advocacy, one of three in- depth weekend studies. The worship leader suggested that attendees advocate for a change in church bulletins to
say “Rise in spirit or in body” rather than the standard “Rise if you are able.” That met with immediate approval from the audience, and many women vowed to advocate for this change.
The study aimed to increase awareness of issues by discussing attitudinal and architectural barriers
encountered by individuals with disabilities. It also hoped to create more advocates to help the church become more welcoming and acces sible to those with disabili ties. Leaders in studies on disability included Bishop Peggy A. Johnson; the Rev. Kirk VanGilder, assistant pro fessor of religion at Gallaudet
where they can purchase current study books or books from the United Methodist Women Read ing Program. Participants can also browse multiple displays located through out the hallways. There is also a Discovery Action room where attendees can participate in hands-on Brownlow from National
Days opened with ev eryone gathering for morn ing worship and closed with evening vespers. This year we used United Methodist Women resource “On a Path to Mission” to create litany for worship. One eve ning we had a talent show, and the other evening Tony
activities related to the cur- Mission Institution Emma rent studies. The location Norton Services spoke with
Eastern Pennsylvania Hosts Mission u Eastern Pennsylvania United Methodist Women members gather for inspiration, information and fun at Mission u.
by Sharyn Bearse University in Washington, of Europe. Leader Pravee-
M D.C.; and Deaconess Barba- na Balasundaram, United
ore than 100 ra Skarbowski, chairperson Methodist Women program members of the for the Disability Concerns resource editor and co-editor Eastern Pennsylva- Committee of the Eastern of United Methodist Women
nia United Methodist Women Pennsylvania Conference News, told the group that the
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Women sing during the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference United Methodist Women’s Mission u transformative learning event July 2014 at the Inn at Reading in Wyomissing, Penn.
gathered the weekend of July 25-27, 2014, to attend Mission u, which began its life many decades ago as the
and secretary for the Dis- Roma are the single largest ability Ministries Committee minority group in Europe. of The United Methodist They have been enslaved, Church. shut out, shunned and even
Other weekend studies killed. Some 2.5 million were included How Is it with Your exterminated during Hitler’s Soul? Two groups, one led by the Rev. Michael Johnson and the other by Deacon ess Nancy Van Antwerp, focused on four verbs: pray, learn, mentor and transform. The leaders challenged the women to become more vibrant disciples for Christ. The group discussed biblical texts, Wesley and the early Methodists, faithful women past and present, and spiri tual practices.
The weekend’s third study focused on The Roma
reign of terror. Attendees learned about Roma lifestyle and spirituality and investi gated ways the church and other organizations are work ing alongside the Roma.
These studies are avail able at www.umwmission resources.org.
Sharyn Bearse is United Methodist Women communications coordinator for the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.
weeklong School of Christian Mission. Many attendees
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of Strong WOMEN
We are faith, hope and love in action. FAITH Thousands of women participate in our reading programs and educational opportunities annually to grow spiritually, become more deeply rooted in Christ and put faith into action.
HOPE Our national mission institutions empower women, care for children, educate and equip youth, care for the neglected, advocate for social justice issues, create economic opportunities and strengthen neighborhoods.
LOVE Our members give out of their love for the world and provide financial support for national mission institutions, higher education scholarships for international students, and 121 programs taking place in 110 countries.
ACTION United Methodist Women members’ voices are heard around the world as they call for justice on issues such as immigration, human trafficking, domestic violence, health care and the environment.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 5
First Saturday Breakfast Popularity Keeps Growing United Methodist Women members in South Dakota begin breakfast fundraiser to help children attend camp.
by Cathy Nelson
T here’s a taste-tempting rea son to take a little
drive out toward Smith wi
SHARE THE HiSTORY, WORK AND JOY OF UNiTED
METHODiST WOMEN! These materials are great resources
for potential members and friends and for members who want to know more. Make them available in your church and
meeting areas and share them with others! Brochures are also available for download at
www.umwmissionresources.org.
United Methodist Women: On a Path for Mission
This booklet tells the story of United Methodist Women in mission, including our history, work, place in the church, worldwide connection, and how we fund mission. A great resource for current, new and potential members who want to learn more! (13 pp.) Free for shipping and handling
English (M5219)
Spanish (M5240)
Korean (M5241)
United Methodist Women
This basic brochure describes what United Methodist Women is, what it does and how it does mission. Great for new and prospective members and friends. Free for shipping and handling
English (M5218)
Spanish (M5242)
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Judy Cox of Buffalo Gap, S.D., stirs a fry pan full of scrambled eggs for the First Saturday Breakfast at Prairie View United Methodist Church.
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Kelli Juhl of Hot Springs puts a slice of bacon on her plate at the First Saturday Breakfast.
ck, South Dakota, on the first Saturday morning of every month. A grand breakfast buffet, prepared
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by members of the Prairie View United Methodist Church, awaits those who venture out that way.
The breakfast consists of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, sweet rolls, gravy and biscuits, and orange juice and coffee—all for dona tions only.
The First Saturday Breakfast was started in 2006 by three women who were members of the Buf falo Gap United Methodist Women’s group. Judy Cox, Colleen Bowker and Mary Anderson were looking for a way to support the United Methodist camp ing program and to pay for children to attend the camps when they cooked up the idea of having a monthly breakfast. With the help of a number of other
members of the church, the idea was off and running. Customers from all over the local area began show ing up for breakfast each month.
The breakfasts contin ued after the four United Methodist Churches of Buffalo Gap, Oelrichs, Smithwick and Oral decid ed to close and become one congregation. They built Prairie View United Methodist Church and held their first service on Easter Sunday in 2010.
Ms. Cox said the num ber of people coming out for breakfast has increased
since moving into the new church. To give you an idea of the number of peo ple who enjoy the monthly feast, she said about 22 dozen eggs are scrambled and served.
“The breakfast atten dance has grown,” she said. “We average about 140 people each time.” On the first Saturday of August, 161 happy people went through the buffet line.
All the net proceeds from the breakfasts are used to send children and adults to camps, such as Storm Mountain Center, which is a United Meth odist Church camp near Rockerville.
“Each year more people have attended the camps,” Ms. Cox said. Since the breakfast began “there have been 22 campers, including adults, who have attended camps.”
Cathy Nelson is a reporter for the Hot Springs Star in Hot Springs, S.D. This story first appeared Aug. 26, 2014, on RapidCityJournal. com. Reprinted with permission.
The church dining room is full of breakfast diners on the first Saturday. A breakfast buffet and a chance to visit with friends and neighbors draw people out to Prairie View United Methodist Church in Smithwick, S.D.
6 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Sierra Leone United Methodist Women Struggle to Respond to Ebola
Bishop John Yambasu has said our United Methodist health facilities must remain open and be there for the people,” Ms. Fofanah said. “There are so many groups trying to respond. We are walking together as United Methodists to respond to this crisis.”
United Methodist Wom en gave a grant to Sierra Leone sisters for their work with Ebola orphans. Indiana United Methodist Women also gave a grant for crisis work in that country.
Yvette Moore is editor of response.
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Beatrice Fofanah, center, national coordinator of Sierra Leone United Methodist Women, and her sister, Kezia Williams, center right, United Methodist Women president, Wakefield Grace United Methodist Church, meets with national office staff, left to right, Carol Van Gorp, Andris Salter and Donna Akuamoah.
by Yvette Moore
T Sierra Leone United Methodist Women is responding to
the Ebola outbreak in their nation while struggling to be a supportive commu nity for members, report ed the women’s national coordinator in a Sept. 30 meeting at United Method ist Women national office in New York City.
Beatrice Fofanah, na tional coordinator of Sierra Leone United Methodist Women, said the organi zation has been purchas ing and delivering rice to families, including those in some of the quarantined areas, even as members contend with the crisis themselves.
“United Methodist Women members, just like all the rest of the women in Sierra Leone, are feeling the impact of the Ebola crisis because the impact is so overwhelming,” she said. “The country was recov ering after war. Now we’re back to zero. … Govern ment hospitals are closed
because caregivers are dying. All of the schools are closed so our children are not going to school. Food is a major crisis. Ebola started during the farming season but people had to abandon their farms. Our borders are closed so food doesn’t come into the country as it should. Prices have skyrocketed. People are dying from other diseases, because if they exhibit any Ebola symptoms, no one will touch them.”
Ms. Fofanah said there is also a ban on the assem bly of groups.
“We only defy the rules to go to church and Bi ble study because that is what is going to see us through,” Ms. Fofanah said. “And even when we go to church, there’s no hugging, no shaking hands.”
Sierra Leone United Methodist Women’s out reach is a part of the de nomination’s comprehen sive Ebola response effort, Ms. Fofanah said. Working with the United Methodist Committee on Relief and other faith organizations,
The United Methodist Church of Sierra Leone spearheaded an interfaith response, which, among other efforts, has included:
• Formation of the Religious Leaders Task Force on Ebola. • Aggressive media and
community group cam paigns to educate the public on the causes, symptoms and prevention of Ebola. • Work with paramount
chief and other communi ty leaders to disseminate information about ways to prevent the spread of the disease. • Aggressive training of reli-
gious leaders and work ers at faith-based health facilities. • Distribution of 800 sets
personal protective equip ment (PPE), including garments, boots, shoe covers, headgear, gloves, goggles, facial mask, etc., for health care workers.
“As more hospitals close and health care workers die or refuse to go to work,
Share Your Story How does your United Methodist Women group put faith, hope and love into action? How is United Methodist Women a part of your Christian journey? When was United Methodist Women a community of hope or encouragement for you? We want to hear your story! Submit your article and high-resolution photos to [email protected] and see it published in a future issue of United Methodist Women News!
Living Timeline
I was one of the many little girls who accompanied her mother to her United Methodist Women meet ings. I thought I was a member of the unit by virtue of being her daughter. I shall remember her voice praying and advocating for the voiceless. She planted the seeds of prayer, service and mission. She nur tured them with love in action and I blossomed into her legacy. She embodied Faith • Hope • Love in Action and is my inspiration!
Lois Moreland-Dean
To submit your story to the United Methodist Women Living Timeline and learn more, visit www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/assembly/timeline.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 7
A Shower of Blessings Ives Chapel United Methodist Women host a baby shower for local children’s organizations.
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Ives Chapel United Methodist Women officers, left to right, Peggy Ford, Rosann Elder and Ellen Grammer decorate the tables and prepare for shower games before guests arrive to Ives Chapel’s Shower of Blessings.
by Joy A. Uthoff
I ves Chapel United Meth odist Women in Baldwin City, Kansas, selected
EmberHope as one of their mission outreach programs for 2014 and chose to host a “Shower of Blessings” to
help supply the 87-year-old organization with needed basic essentials for its chil dren’s programs.
Based in Wichita, Kan sas, EmberHope is a United Methodist agency providing foster care programs, res idential care, child specific
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Gifts donated by Ives Chapel United Methodist Women to local Methodist children’s agency EmberHope after Shower of Blessings fundraiser.
adoption recruitment and family consultation service as well as STRIVE, a new di vision to reach at-risk youth.
This support mission was born in the 1920s as the Kansas Methodist Home for Children. In 1960 the agency name was changed to Methodist Youthville and in 1979 it became United Methodist Youthville. In 2013 the organization’s name was changed to EmberHope.
Invitations with a list of basic essentials needed by EmberHope in their caring for more than 500 children in foster care, many between the ages of 0-3, were sent to every woman congregant at Ives Chapel United Meth odist Church inviting them to a baby shower. Guests were asked to bring the gifts unwrapped.
The evening began with the United Methodist Wom en president providing a brief history of EmberHope. Baby games were enjoyed and prizes awarded. Ta
bles were decorated with a diaper cake, baby in cradle, yellow ducks on stemware and bowls of floating can dle flowers. Refreshments and fellowship followed as well as the opportunity to browse the gift tables over flowing with items provided by the guests.
It was an enjoyable and rewarding evening for those who participated, and the United Methodist Women members were very pleased with the gifts brought for the children of EmberHope’s mission and the support of the women who answered the call to faith, hope and love in action.
Joy A. Uthoff is a member of United Methodist Women at ives Chapel United Methodist Church in Baldwin, Kan.
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“Diaper cakes” served as centerpieces for Ives Chapel’s Shower of Blessings. They were made and provided by a United Methodist Women member and served a dual purpose by providing useful baby items.
Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit
Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit
Looking to welcome new members to United Methodist Women? Our new re sources can help! Visit www.unitedmeth odistwomen.org/member-kit to download Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit and watch the accompanying video of members who have hosted welcoming events.
8 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
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Prophetic Witness at the Whilte House
Talking About the Things that Make for Peace
MIssion u Minnesota
First Saturday Breakfast Popularity Keeps Growing
Sierra Leone United Methodist Women Struggle to Respond to Ebola
Living Timeline
news From the General Secretary Small Pillow, Big Difference When We Are
Retired Missionary Jerri Savuto finds comfort Our Best and healing in handmade, love-made pillows.
by Harriett Jane Olson
I hat will United Methodist
recently visited an W Women look American Cancer So- like in 50 years? How will ciety office located at we operate? What will our Texas Health Presbyte priorities be? rian Hospital in Plano, When a friend asked
Texas, to choose a free me that recently, I thought wig, as the chemotherapy about our aspirations—our treatments I am undergo buttons—and what we ing to treat cancer have are when we are at our caused me to lose my best. Imagine a United hair. While there the lovely Methodist Women that is woman who took care of a primary place of identity I imagine a welcoming, my daughter and I asked for women in The United equipped, leader-filled and if I had a port (a small Methodist Church no mat- talent-rich organization medical appliance inserted ter what their first language responding to the needs beneath my skin near my is. Our resident population of women, children and chest that holds a cathe and our United Methodist youth in every community
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Jerri Savuto, left, with her daughter, Corrie Kern, as she undergoes chemotherapy treatment in October 2014. Her pillow was made by United Methodist Women in Frisco, Texas.
Harriett Jane Olson
ter connected to a vein to make chemotherapy treat ments easier and more comfortable). She asked if I could use a small pillow
Church membership will and all around the world. I continue to be enriched imagine that this response
world; I imagine a future in analysis of current issues which their ability to speak and givi
by people from all over the comes out of critical
ng resources, to place over my port while wearing a seat belt. Be fore I could say anything my daughter stated that I always held the seat belt out, away from my chest, and it would be great.
I was given the oppor tunity to choose one I liked. I was thrilled. The staff woman also told me about heart-shaped pillows that woman with breast cancer use. I asked if I could see and try one as I have a col lapsed lung and have trou ble sleeping on my left side, the side I normally did sleep
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on. I tried the pillow and it was perfect for helping me to get comfortable. I again chose which one I wanted (chili peppers!).
When I got the pillows home and my daughter, granddaughter and I were unpacking them we noticed a note on them. The note stated that the pillows were made by the United Meth odist Women of First United Methodist Church Frisco in Frisco, Texas. I was so pleased and excited as I felt that connection and knew what those pillows mean to so many woman. And
I am so grateful to the women who sew and cre ate these pillows in cheerful colors and patterns, and I cannot adequately ex press how much I am using them and how they have helped me in the car and sleeping in bed and on the recliner. What a wonderful ministry. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your work means so much to others. Help to sleep is huge, as is to wear your seat belt!
Jerri Savuto is a retired missionary with the General Board of
in the language of their hearts is something that draws women to United Methodist Women.
I also imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every ra cial and ethnic group know that they are viewed as welcome sisters and that their gifts of leadership, service and advocacy are welcomed. I imagine that we get better and better at observing cultural differ ences appreciatively and incorporating the gifts of leaders who operate with many different styles.
I imagine a United Methodist Women in which women of every generation are welcome, valued and offer leadership
offering service and advocating for changing systems so that all can thrive. In other words: Listening and responding to God.
Can you see it? The problem with dreaming a big dream is that you are challenged to make it come true. What must I learn to make it happen? Who must I partner with? Who new must I listen to?
United Methodist Women, let’s dream big, and let’s take a few steps today toward our dream for the United Methodist Women of 50 years from now.
Harriett Jane Olson is the port pillow works even Global Ministries of The United that the whole organization General Secretary and CEO of better than my neck pillow Methodist Church currently appreciates. United Methodist Women. for recliner naps! living in McKinney, Texas.
2 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Prophetic Witness at the White House United Methodist Women members protest family deportations on Capitol Hill in an act of civil disobedience.
by Tequila Minsky
U including gangs extorting protection money. There is
nited Methodist no justice system to go to in Women members their countries.” joined more than The women Ms. John
100 immigration advocates son met in the course of for a day of advocacy that her work came from Hon included civil disobedience duras, Guatemala and El in Washington, D.C., July Salvador. 31. Among those arrested Ms. Carter came to in the civil disobedience the event with her retired action were Deaconess husband, the Rev. Brian Cindy Andrade Johnston Carter, in response to a call of Brownsville, Texas; from the General Board of Rita Carter, social action Church and Society for the coordinator for Iowa Con “No More Deportations” ference United Methodist campaign to put pressure Women; and Janice Gint on President Obama to zler, social action coordi- stop the deportations. nator for Illinois Conference “We had a caravan of United Methodist Women. three cars, 10 adults and
The “Prophetic Witness two children, driving from at the White House” start- Des Moines—24 hours ed early with morning civil the hardships that families Ms. Johnson works straight to Washington,” disobedience training that endured from their status.” with immigrants and asy- Ms. Carter said. “I believe packed the meeting room Ms. Johnson said the lum seekers with nonprofits the time is now to speak at the United Methodist U.S. government is “play- along the border. The num- up for immigrants. Lots of Building, just steps from the ing politics” rather than ber of teachers, accoun- people have spoken out, Capitol. By the end of the enacting just immigration tants and other profession- but there is so little action.” day, 112 had been arrested policies, particularly in als among the refugees Both Ms. Johnson outside the White House in the current crisis in which she has encountered in her and Ms. Carter say United a peaceful action protesting many are seeking asylum work has surprised her. Methodist Women’s long- President Obama’s depor- as refugees. “Our gov- “The coyotes [high- time advocacy and educa tation policies and calling ernment says our borders ly paid border crossing tion around just immigration for just immigration reform. are not secure. Not true. guides] target people who reform helped prepare
“The morning train- The people coming across can pay,” she said. “The them for the day’s action. ing was reassuring,” Ms. are turning themselves in. women I spoke with have “It focused me on the issue Johnson said of the session They’re fleeing violence in had violence directed to- and helped me understand that included prayer, legal their country,” she said. ward them or their families, how important it is to keep guidance, logistics and going,” Ms. Carter said. step-by-step description of Seventeen-year-old the planned arrests. “The Kaija Carter (no relation) action went like clockwork. of Iowa also participated Once at the police station, it in the protest. “I’m tired of took 45 minutes.” seeing friends and family
Ms. Johnson, a second being torn apart,” she said. generation American from “I come to stand together Mexico, participated in the with these people of faith action after years of wit- and push for the accep nessing the impact of U.S. tance of all people.” immigration policies in her For Ms. Gintzler, par- work. ticipating in the Capitol Hill
“I was a teacher for 30 action meant a 24-hour bus years, from elementary to ride to Washington, D.C., high school,” Ms. Johnson to witness to her United said. “A lot of my students Methodist faith. This was not were undocumented or her first act of civil disobe part of their family was dience—Ms. Gintzler was undocumented. I witnessed arrested in Chicago while
Deaconess Cindy Andrade Johnson from Brownsville, Texas, is placed in handcuffs during an act of civil disobedience to protest unjust deportations in July 2014.
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United Methodist Women members Janice Gintzler, left, and Rita Carter, right, attend civil disobedience training at the United Methodist building in Washington, D.C. in July 2014.
protesting the Keystone Pipeline last year—but getting arrested nonetheless stretched her comfort zone. While protesting in the day’s hot sun and waiting through three amplified warnings from the police before they were actually arrested, “I was thinking about Jesus on the cross,” Ms. Gintzler said.
While waiting to be arrested, Ms. Gintzler met a young woman DREAM er, a person with tempo rary legal status afforded minors in school based on the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. More than two dozen of those arrested were undocu mented. “This takes ex treme bravery for someone undocumented and those temporarily documented to participate in civil disobe dience and get arrested,” Ms. Gintzler said.
Despite Ms. Johnson’s years of working with immigrants—and more re cently asylum seekers—the ecumenical day of witness revved up her commitment to work for immigration justice.
“The civil disobedi ence action reinforced my resolve, particularly along side all these people and faith leaders acting in the same way,” Ms. Johnson said. “I’m going back to the work I do with energy and renewed commitment.”
United Methodists traveled to the ecumenical action from Mississippi, Iowa, California, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Virginia, Tex as, Hawaii, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Tequila Minsky is a freelance photojournalist based in New York, N.Y.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 3
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Talking About “The Things That Make for Peace” United Methodist Women and partners host an International Day of Peace symposium at the Church Center for the United Nations.
by Linda Bloom
W hen the U.N. Peace Bell rang across
the street from the United Methodist-related Church Center for the United Nations, those gathered in the center’s chapel rang their own small bells in response.
Video clips of peo ple ringing bells from the Philippines to the Dem ocratic Republic of Con go followed, along with messages of peace. One video message from an Iraqi woman pleaded for urgent international ac tion for those suffering in her country. “Let’s build up peace in Iraq that will enhance world peace,” she said.
The U.N. General Assembly has declared the International Day of Peace, celebrated on or near Sept. “We will share and examine trator of the United Nations see these conflicts taking 21, “to be a day devoted what are those things that Development Program, scarce resources away to strengthening the ide- make for peace, real peace, had just returned from a from development and als of peace, both within peace that can last.” visit to Lebanon, where the costing developing coun and among all nations and spillover effects of conflict tries hundreds of millions peoples.” Growing Out of Conflict are threatening to engulf of dollars a year.”
To mark the day, Unit- yaradzayi Gum- that small country. Women and girls also ed Methodist Women bonzvanda, top Currently, Lebanon’s are bearing the costs of and other religious and executive of the population of under 4.5 conflict, said Lakshmi Puri,N nongovernmental groups World YWCA and moder- million is hosting just under deputy executive director organized a symposium, ator for the morning event, 1.2 million refugees. “Per for UN Women. “The Things That Make for grew up in rural Zimba- capita, it hosts far more “Women continue to be Peace.” Morning speakers bwe during the war. “I am refugees than any other disproportionately affected and afternoon workshops a daughter of conflict,” country in the world,” Ms. by conflict situations and focused on the intersection she said. “I know what Clark noted. “And there are often excluded from of basic needs—food, wa- it means.” are huge concerns there development planning … ter and health—with issues She also recognizes over whether the country’s despite the fact that wom of gender, climate insecurity what can help end such stability will hold with the en head, on an average, and conflict. conflict. “I lead a glob- Syria conflict continuing 40 percent of households
“Today, we’re empha- al market of 25 million and spilling over into Leba- in post-conflict settings,” sizing the inextricable links women and girls,” she non itself. she said. of peace and just develop- explained. “Their everyday “We see, as you do, Women’s knowledge, ment,” said Harriett Jane work is one of the things peace and stability as a wisdom and commitment Olson, top executive of that make peace happen.” prerequisite for human de- to future generations, Ms. United Methodist Women. Helen Clark, adminis- velopment,” she said. “We Puri pointed out, is what
“makes them such critical peacemakers and peace- builders, but also conflict preventers.”
Week of Action in New York
T he symposium marks the begin ning of a week of
action before the open ing of the United Nations General Assembly’s 69th Session, including the Peoples Climate March Sept. 21, the World Con ference on Indigenous Peoples, Sept. 22-23, and the U.N. Climate Summit, Sept. 23.
“Everything discussed there will have a bearing on whether our world is capa ble of building a peaceful, equitable and just future,” Ms. Clark said.
But Bill McKibben, a United Methodist and well-known activist from Middlebury, Vermont, calls next week’s gathering of world leaders “the side show to the main event.”
More important, he told symposium participants, was Sunday’s climate march in midtown Manhat tan. “It’s going to be by far the largest demonstration about climate change the world has ever seen,” he said. “It’s going to be filled, among other things, with people of faith.”
Mr. McKibben, whose 350.org movement is one of the march’s organizers, said that a video mes sage from former South African Archbishop Des mond Tutu and a call from Cardinal Timothy Dolan for area Catholics to join the march shows “a spirit moving and it is beautiful to see.”
Linda Bloom is a United Methodist News Service multimedia reporter based in New York. Follow her at www.twitter.com/umcscribe or contact her at (646) 369 3759 or newsdesk@umcom. org. This article first appeared Sept. 19, 2014, on umc.org. Reprinted with permission.
4 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Mission u in Minnesota Minnesota Conference United Methodist Women host Mission u.
by Theresa Riecke
T he Minnesota Con ference Mission u was held in July at
St. John’s University in Col legeville, Minnesota. Since the switch from School of Christian Mission to Mission u we have used Mission u: Learning Together for the Transformation of the World as our theme. C
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We offer two ways to Worship setting for the 2014 Minnesota Conference Mission u. of the event also allows us and took part in a panel participate in Mission u: a participants to explore the discussion on people with more traditional “school” campus, where they may disabilities and their view that gives everyone eight participants in the studies offers participants a re view the St. John’s Bible, on how the church can be hours in two studies and a offered: How Is It With Your laxed atmosphere in which visit the pottery studio, more inclusive. one-day event that offers Soul? The Church and they can participate in dif- go swimming or view one and a half hours in all People With Disabilities ferent activities in addition the sapling sculpture by three studies. Our study and The Roma of Europe. to the studies. Participants environmental artist Patrick Theresa Riecke is the dean of leaders led about 180 Our traditional school can visit the bookstore Dougherty. Minnesota Conference Mission u.
remember attending Schools of Christian Mission, includ ing Eastern Pennsylvania Conference United Methodist Women President Barbara Drake, whose mother was dean in 1957.
The first night’s worship focused on The Church and People With Disabilities: Awareness, Accessibility and Advocacy, one of three in- depth weekend studies. The worship leader suggested that attendees advocate for a change in church bulletins to
say “Rise in spirit or in body” rather than the standard “Rise if you are able.” That met with immediate approval from the audience, and many women vowed to advocate for this change.
The study aimed to increase awareness of issues by discussing attitudinal and architectural barriers
encountered by individuals with disabilities. It also hoped to create more advocates to help the church become more welcoming and acces sible to those with disabili ties. Leaders in studies on disability included Bishop Peggy A. Johnson; the Rev. Kirk VanGilder, assistant pro fessor of religion at Gallaudet
where they can purchase current study books or books from the United Methodist Women Read ing Program. Participants can also browse multiple displays located through out the hallways. There is also a Discovery Action room where attendees can participate in hands-on Brownlow from National
Days opened with ev eryone gathering for morn ing worship and closed with evening vespers. This year we used United Methodist Women resource “On a Path to Mission” to create litany for worship. One eve ning we had a talent show, and the other evening Tony
activities related to the cur- Mission Institution Emma rent studies. The location Norton Services spoke with
Eastern Pennsylvania Hosts Mission u Eastern Pennsylvania United Methodist Women members gather for inspiration, information and fun at Mission u.
by Sharyn Bearse University in Washington, of Europe. Leader Pravee-
M D.C.; and Deaconess Barba- na Balasundaram, United
ore than 100 ra Skarbowski, chairperson Methodist Women program members of the for the Disability Concerns resource editor and co-editor Eastern Pennsylva- Committee of the Eastern of United Methodist Women
nia United Methodist Women Pennsylvania Conference News, told the group that the
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Women sing during the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference United Methodist Women’s Mission u transformative learning event July 2014 at the Inn at Reading in Wyomissing, Penn.
gathered the weekend of July 25-27, 2014, to attend Mission u, which began its life many decades ago as the
and secretary for the Dis- Roma are the single largest ability Ministries Committee minority group in Europe. of The United Methodist They have been enslaved, Church. shut out, shunned and even
Other weekend studies killed. Some 2.5 million were included How Is it with Your exterminated during Hitler’s Soul? Two groups, one led by the Rev. Michael Johnson and the other by Deacon ess Nancy Van Antwerp, focused on four verbs: pray, learn, mentor and transform. The leaders challenged the women to become more vibrant disciples for Christ. The group discussed biblical texts, Wesley and the early Methodists, faithful women past and present, and spiri tual practices.
The weekend’s third study focused on The Roma
reign of terror. Attendees learned about Roma lifestyle and spirituality and investi gated ways the church and other organizations are work ing alongside the Roma.
These studies are avail able at www.umwmission resources.org.
Sharyn Bearse is United Methodist Women communications coordinator for the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.
weeklong School of Christian Mission. Many attendees
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We are faith, hope and love in action. FAITH Thousands of women participate in our reading programs and educational opportunities annually to grow spiritually, become more deeply rooted in Christ and put faith into action.
HOPE Our national mission institutions empower women, care for children, educate and equip youth, care for the neglected, advocate for social justice issues, create economic opportunities and strengthen neighborhoods.
LOVE Our members give out of their love for the world and provide financial support for national mission institutions, higher education scholarships for international students, and 121 programs taking place in 110 countries.
ACTION United Methodist Women members’ voices are heard around the world as they call for justice on issues such as immigration, human trafficking, domestic violence, health care and the environment.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 5
First Saturday Breakfast Popularity Keeps Growing United Methodist Women members in South Dakota begin breakfast fundraiser to help children attend camp.
by Cathy Nelson
T here’s a taste-tempting rea son to take a little
drive out toward Smith wi
SHARE THE HiSTORY, WORK AND JOY OF UNiTED
METHODiST WOMEN! These materials are great resources
for potential members and friends and for members who want to know more. Make them available in your church and
meeting areas and share them with others! Brochures are also available for download at
www.umwmissionresources.org.
United Methodist Women: On a Path for Mission
This booklet tells the story of United Methodist Women in mission, including our history, work, place in the church, worldwide connection, and how we fund mission. A great resource for current, new and potential members who want to learn more! (13 pp.) Free for shipping and handling
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United Methodist Women
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Judy Cox of Buffalo Gap, S.D., stirs a fry pan full of scrambled eggs for the First Saturday Breakfast at Prairie View United Methodist Church.
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Kelli Juhl of Hot Springs puts a slice of bacon on her plate at the First Saturday Breakfast.
ck, South Dakota, on the first Saturday morning of every month. A grand breakfast buffet, prepared
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by members of the Prairie View United Methodist Church, awaits those who venture out that way.
The breakfast consists of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, sweet rolls, gravy and biscuits, and orange juice and coffee—all for dona tions only.
The First Saturday Breakfast was started in 2006 by three women who were members of the Buf falo Gap United Methodist Women’s group. Judy Cox, Colleen Bowker and Mary Anderson were looking for a way to support the United Methodist camp ing program and to pay for children to attend the camps when they cooked up the idea of having a monthly breakfast. With the help of a number of other
members of the church, the idea was off and running. Customers from all over the local area began show ing up for breakfast each month.
The breakfasts contin ued after the four United Methodist Churches of Buffalo Gap, Oelrichs, Smithwick and Oral decid ed to close and become one congregation. They built Prairie View United Methodist Church and held their first service on Easter Sunday in 2010.
Ms. Cox said the num ber of people coming out for breakfast has increased
since moving into the new church. To give you an idea of the number of peo ple who enjoy the monthly feast, she said about 22 dozen eggs are scrambled and served.
“The breakfast atten dance has grown,” she said. “We average about 140 people each time.” On the first Saturday of August, 161 happy people went through the buffet line.
All the net proceeds from the breakfasts are used to send children and adults to camps, such as Storm Mountain Center, which is a United Meth odist Church camp near Rockerville.
“Each year more people have attended the camps,” Ms. Cox said. Since the breakfast began “there have been 22 campers, including adults, who have attended camps.”
Cathy Nelson is a reporter for the Hot Springs Star in Hot Springs, S.D. This story first appeared Aug. 26, 2014, on RapidCityJournal. com. Reprinted with permission.
The church dining room is full of breakfast diners on the first Saturday. A breakfast buffet and a chance to visit with friends and neighbors draw people out to Prairie View United Methodist Church in Smithwick, S.D.
6 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
Sierra Leone United Methodist Women Struggle to Respond to Ebola
Bishop John Yambasu has said our United Methodist health facilities must remain open and be there for the people,” Ms. Fofanah said. “There are so many groups trying to respond. We are walking together as United Methodists to respond to this crisis.”
United Methodist Wom en gave a grant to Sierra Leone sisters for their work with Ebola orphans. Indiana United Methodist Women also gave a grant for crisis work in that country.
Yvette Moore is editor of response.
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Beatrice Fofanah, center, national coordinator of Sierra Leone United Methodist Women, and her sister, Kezia Williams, center right, United Methodist Women president, Wakefield Grace United Methodist Church, meets with national office staff, left to right, Carol Van Gorp, Andris Salter and Donna Akuamoah.
by Yvette Moore
T Sierra Leone United Methodist Women is responding to
the Ebola outbreak in their nation while struggling to be a supportive commu nity for members, report ed the women’s national coordinator in a Sept. 30 meeting at United Method ist Women national office in New York City.
Beatrice Fofanah, na tional coordinator of Sierra Leone United Methodist Women, said the organi zation has been purchas ing and delivering rice to families, including those in some of the quarantined areas, even as members contend with the crisis themselves.
“United Methodist Women members, just like all the rest of the women in Sierra Leone, are feeling the impact of the Ebola crisis because the impact is so overwhelming,” she said. “The country was recov ering after war. Now we’re back to zero. … Govern ment hospitals are closed
because caregivers are dying. All of the schools are closed so our children are not going to school. Food is a major crisis. Ebola started during the farming season but people had to abandon their farms. Our borders are closed so food doesn’t come into the country as it should. Prices have skyrocketed. People are dying from other diseases, because if they exhibit any Ebola symptoms, no one will touch them.”
Ms. Fofanah said there is also a ban on the assem bly of groups.
“We only defy the rules to go to church and Bi ble study because that is what is going to see us through,” Ms. Fofanah said. “And even when we go to church, there’s no hugging, no shaking hands.”
Sierra Leone United Methodist Women’s out reach is a part of the de nomination’s comprehen sive Ebola response effort, Ms. Fofanah said. Working with the United Methodist Committee on Relief and other faith organizations,
The United Methodist Church of Sierra Leone spearheaded an interfaith response, which, among other efforts, has included:
• Formation of the Religious Leaders Task Force on Ebola. • Aggressive media and
community group cam paigns to educate the public on the causes, symptoms and prevention of Ebola. • Work with paramount
chief and other communi ty leaders to disseminate information about ways to prevent the spread of the disease. • Aggressive training of reli-
gious leaders and work ers at faith-based health facilities. • Distribution of 800 sets
personal protective equip ment (PPE), including garments, boots, shoe covers, headgear, gloves, goggles, facial mask, etc., for health care workers.
“As more hospitals close and health care workers die or refuse to go to work,
Share Your Story How does your United Methodist Women group put faith, hope and love into action? How is United Methodist Women a part of your Christian journey? When was United Methodist Women a community of hope or encouragement for you? We want to hear your story! Submit your article and high-resolution photos to [email protected] and see it published in a future issue of United Methodist Women News!
Living Timeline
I was one of the many little girls who accompanied her mother to her United Methodist Women meet ings. I thought I was a member of the unit by virtue of being her daughter. I shall remember her voice praying and advocating for the voiceless. She planted the seeds of prayer, service and mission. She nur tured them with love in action and I blossomed into her legacy. She embodied Faith • Hope • Love in Action and is my inspiration!
Lois Moreland-Dean
To submit your story to the United Methodist Women Living Timeline and learn more, visit www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/assembly/timeline.
United Methodist Women news Fall 2014 | 7
A Shower of Blessings Ives Chapel United Methodist Women host a baby shower for local children’s organizations.
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Ives Chapel United Methodist Women officers, left to right, Peggy Ford, Rosann Elder and Ellen Grammer decorate the tables and prepare for shower games before guests arrive to Ives Chapel’s Shower of Blessings.
by Joy A. Uthoff
I ves Chapel United Meth odist Women in Baldwin City, Kansas, selected
EmberHope as one of their mission outreach programs for 2014 and chose to host a “Shower of Blessings” to
help supply the 87-year-old organization with needed basic essentials for its chil dren’s programs.
Based in Wichita, Kan sas, EmberHope is a United Methodist agency providing foster care programs, res idential care, child specific
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Gifts donated by Ives Chapel United Methodist Women to local Methodist children’s agency EmberHope after Shower of Blessings fundraiser.
adoption recruitment and family consultation service as well as STRIVE, a new di vision to reach at-risk youth.
This support mission was born in the 1920s as the Kansas Methodist Home for Children. In 1960 the agency name was changed to Methodist Youthville and in 1979 it became United Methodist Youthville. In 2013 the organization’s name was changed to EmberHope.
Invitations with a list of basic essentials needed by EmberHope in their caring for more than 500 children in foster care, many between the ages of 0-3, were sent to every woman congregant at Ives Chapel United Meth odist Church inviting them to a baby shower. Guests were asked to bring the gifts unwrapped.
The evening began with the United Methodist Wom en president providing a brief history of EmberHope. Baby games were enjoyed and prizes awarded. Ta
bles were decorated with a diaper cake, baby in cradle, yellow ducks on stemware and bowls of floating can dle flowers. Refreshments and fellowship followed as well as the opportunity to browse the gift tables over flowing with items provided by the guests.
It was an enjoyable and rewarding evening for those who participated, and the United Methodist Women members were very pleased with the gifts brought for the children of EmberHope’s mission and the support of the women who answered the call to faith, hope and love in action.
Joy A. Uthoff is a member of United Methodist Women at ives Chapel United Methodist Church in Baldwin, Kan.
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“Diaper cakes” served as centerpieces for Ives Chapel’s Shower of Blessings. They were made and provided by a United Methodist Women member and served a dual purpose by providing useful baby items.
Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit
Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit
Looking to welcome new members to United Methodist Women? Our new re sources can help! Visit www.unitedmeth odistwomen.org/member-kit to download Welcome! United Methodist Women Welcoming Event Toolkit and watch the accompanying video of members who have hosted welcoming events.
8 | Fall 2014 United Methodist Women news
news United Methodist Women News is published quarterly by United Methodist Women 475 Riverside Drive, Room 1501 New York, NY 10115
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© United Methodist Women
Material from this newsletter may be reproduced without adaptation for noncommercial purposes provided the following notice appears with the excerpted material: From United Methodist Women News, Vol. 7, No. 4 (2014). Used by permission.
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Holiday Gift Ideas New! Prayer Calendar greeting cards! Send a Christmas card this year featuring an image from the 2015 Prayer Calendar, or send Prayer Calendar artwork year round with our new greeting cards!
Prayer Calendar greeting cards $15.00 (M3245)
Prayer Calendar images as greeting cards! Twelve different images from the 2015 Prayer Calendar, featuring artwork created by children from our national and international mission partners! Twelve cards in a pack. Blank inside. 4x6. Available November 10, 2014.
Prayer Calendar Peace card $15.00 (M3246)
One Peace image from the Prayer Calendar. Send Peace for the holidays and throughout the year. Twelve cards in a pack. Blank inside. 4x6. Available November 10, 2014.
Don’t forget stocking stuffers! Temporary tattoos, notebooks, pens, water bottles, key chains, iPad covers, sticky notes, buttons and more!
Items are available at www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/store!
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