United Methodist Women
First United Methodist Church of LaGrange
Do you dream of doing something meaningful?
Being a UMW member provides an opportunity to make faithful positive contributions to the lives of others while enjoying the friendship of other women. As United Methodist Women we strive to be a Christian presence in the lives of those close to us and all people wherever they live.
Purpose
The organized unit of United Methodist Women shall be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand the concept of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church. (Article 3 of the Constitution)
ANNUAL UNIT EVENTS
UMW Mission Team meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month from 3:30-5:00 pm in the Agenda/Kee classroom. All members are welcome to this open session
A variety of other interesting programs are offered in the fall, winter and spring. See examples below.
FALL
A musical presentation by Mark and Barbara Miner titled "The Gift of Love" was enjoyed on a Sunday followed by High Tea. The delicious treats were prepared by UMW members. Ladies wore hats and gloves, while gentlement dressed appropriately to complement their ladies. It was an enjoyable afternoon
WINTER
In December the annual Cookie Walk is a popular event and a primary fundraiser for missions. Church members donate homemade Christmas cookies which are sold by the pound just in time for the holiday season.
In February UMW presents an uplifting and enlightening service for Thank Offering Sunday. Monies collected in the Thank Offering Boxes are used to help sustain people in their life struggles.
SPRING
In March Denise Brennan, a wellness nurse at The British Home spoke about her experiences in Cambodia as part of a medical team making the trip as part of the Louisana Volunteers & Missions Program which is a subsidiary of the United Methodist Volunteers in Mission Program. The trip focused on providing medical care to people living in rural villages, many of whom had never seen a doctor or received conventional medical care.
A salad luncheon and program was held this May featuring a presentation by Susanna McClendon, President and Dorothy Wilson, Membership and Nurturing Mission Coordinator of the UMW Chicago Southern District. The topic was "Every Woman Counts".
INTEREST GROUPS
UMW members also have the opporunity to join groups that match their interests. Contact the group's chairperson(s) for more information.
SARAH GROUP - The Sarah Group meets during the day at Plymouth Place on the third Thursday of every other month (odd months) from 9:30 - 11:00 am. A speaker or devotions are included in these meetings.
SEW WHAT QUILT MINISTRY - Women interested in quilting will enjoy this group. No experience is necessary. Current projects include making quilts for the Cunningham Children's Home. The group recently presented a memorial banner to the church in honor of our former music director. Meets Tuesdays from 7:00 - 9:00 pm, dates vary.
KNIT WITS - Women interested in kitting and crocheting participate in this group. Current projects include making prayer shawls for those experiencing illness or loss, scarves for youth and infant caps for 'Save the Children'. No experience necessary. Meets the fourth Monday of the month from 7:30 - 9:00 pm.
THIRD THURSDAY READING GROUP - Reading books and sharing ideas provides the focus for this group. Evening meetings are scheduled. Because of its popularity, Bookworms was formed.
BOOKWORMS - our newest group, enjoys reading a variety of books, for example, "The Good Earth". Lively discussions occur during the meetings. Meets the third Monday of the month from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.
Who should join?
Women of all ages and stages of life
Who do we serve?
Women, youth and children
How do we serve?
Through participation in meetings, prayer, study, financial gifts, action, and/or service
Where do we meet?
First United Methodish Church La Grange and other location within the immediate area
When do we meet?
Annual events are planned for the La Grange UMW Unit in Spring, Fall and Winter. Interest groups establish their own meeting schedules and typically meet monthly or every two months.
Women from the La Grange unit have the opportunity to participate in activities of UMW within the Southern District and the Northern Illinois Conference at various times throughout the year.
How to join:
Contact any Mission Team member
