Arborlawn’s United Methodist Women group meets monthly (except during the summer months) for its general meeting (see notice for the February meeting in this issue). The UMW also has several small groups called Circles which also meet during the school year.
The UMW organization is organized for the purpose of reaching out to those of God’s children who are hurting in some way, and the Circles help focus this effort through Fellowship, Study, and Mission.
Fellowship: It is easier to get to know people in smaller groups, and the circles are organized to do this. Individual needs are better known and addressed in a small group. For example, the Circles often provide meals for members when they have health issues or other needs.
Study: As important as it is to care for Circle members, the small groups also try to gain a wider vision of needs through studies. The national UMW organization provides study material in three categories: Spiritual Growth, Social Issues, and Geographical. Last year's Geographical study was on the Roma of Europe. Next year it will be on Latin America. Understanding of different cultures equips UMW members to help in a meaningful way. This year's Spiritual Growth study is called “How Is It With Your Soul?” and is aimed at deepening the spiritual base of the participants. The Social Issues study this year is “The Church and Those With Disabilities.”
Mission: Members of various UMW Circles participate in a variety of hands-on missions activities with existing missions at Arborlawn (such as packing Snack Sacks) and providing funds for specific missionaries.
[Editor’s Note: This article is adapted from a talk presented during the recent Cynthia Ceballos Circle meeting.]
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