For the past several years, local UMW units as well as Districts and Conferences have asked “How can we get younger women involved?” National listened and as part of their strategic planning guided by the Board of Directors, and the Program Advisory Group (PAG), both member-elected, began more than 5 years ago doing some research. They looked at the programs, talked to women, and did many surveys, focus groups and interviews with United Methodist women and women of other denominations and Christian traditions. Over 24,000 women were surveyed or interviewed. The new name, programs and program innovations are fruits of that research along with prayerful efforts to discern the times for our organization.
Now, a little of the history! In 1869, 8 women met (on a cold and stormy night!) and soon The Methodist Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society (WFMS) was born! The organization has undergone several name changes over our 150+ year history. I remember the Women’s Society for Christian Service (W.S.C.S.) in the 60’s. In 1972 we became United Methodist Women, and in 2022, United Women in Faith.
They say a rose by any other name is still a rose. The same is true for United Women in Faith. We will continue our legacy of being in mission for women, children and youth.
Our PURPOSE remains the same as it appears in The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church 2016 (¶256.5.3). The core of our work remains the same: changing the world through faith, hope and love in action. The United Women in Faith mission statement – written by board executive committee members, PAG representatives and assigned staff – is a refreshed expression our core principles.
Our new logo represents the past, present, and future of our organization. The symbol refers to our Christian roots. The multicolored pieces of the cross coming together represent the diversity we aim for and the inward and outward reflection we engage in as women of faith. The typography is solid, modern, and bold, showcasing our power to support the causes in which we invest.
Embrace the change!
Martha Caves, President
North Carolina Conference United Women in Faith