The first piece of information for this article comes from Response Magazine. It highlights Mary Magdalene—a woman whose life has been the subject of many theories, not all of them flattering. Yet what stands out most is her unwavering devotion as a follower of Jesus.
During Holy Week, many of us heard her story again. She was present at the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, and was among the first to witness the empty tomb. Her faithfulness never wavered.
Like Mary, many of you are living examples of courage and bravery. When others were afraid and fled, she remained steadfast in her commitment to serve her Lord. Her example inspires me to say to each of you: proclaim the Good News! Whether it is through working on projects within your units, supporting church activities, or serving in your communities, all are meaningful acts of servanthood. Please know how deeply you are appreciated for all that you do.
One important way we grow in our ability to serve is through reading. I encourage you to make use of your local and church libraries, join a book club, or share insights with one another. The current UWF Reading Program list is a valuable resource to guide your learning and reflection.
Please remember that our “Evening Together” will be held on May 21st at 7:00 p.m. at Asbury UMC in Harrisonburg. Our speaker, Jeff Wilhelm, Director of HOPE Distributed, will share how this outreach ministry is meeting the needs of many in our district. It promises to be a meaningful time of learning, fellowship, and encouragement.
Looking ahead, our annual UMC Conference will take place at the Atlantic Union Bank Center on the campus of James Madison University from June 17–20. This is always a time filled with planning, excitement, and the anticipation of blessings to come.
Additionally, the District UWF/UMM will host a Breakfast on June 19th at 7:00 a.m. in the Dayton UMC Social Hall. We are pleased to welcome Jeremy Harold, a Harrisonburg Creation Care Specialist, as our speaker. This will be another wonderful opportunity to gather, share, and learn together.
Future possibilities to attend:
July 24-25 Mission U
May 15-17 UWF Natonal Assembly, Indianapolis, IN
Aug. 15 Fun Gathering-Shenandoah Co. Park
Sept. 12 Prayer Breakfast- Mtn. Valley UMC
As Mary led others, may we find ways to guide each other into the future, as we share our gifts and talents, as others have done in the past. Ordinary women with extraordinary possibilities
Blessings, friends
Barbara Phillips, Co VP