Workshops are being offered in four tracks at Assembly: Soul Care, Leadership, Change-makers and Virtual Workshops. All times are listed in the Eastern Standard Time Zone.
Led by Marchelle Phelps and Nichea VerVeer Guy.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Marchelle Phelps and Nichea VerVeer Guy.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Mikele Haskins-Delmore and Susan Kim.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." in this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far, and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Mikele Haskins-Delmore and Susan Kim.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." in this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far, and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Ellen Lipsey, Olhivia Gutierrez and Vicki Busby.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Ellen Lipsey, Olhivia Gutierrez and Vicki Busby.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Sue Owens and Clara Ester.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Sue Owens and Clara Ester.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Bonita Miller and Janet Mills.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Bonita Miller and Janet Mills.
Antiracism remains a foundational commitment of United Methodist Women, but—just as most discipleship practices—it is easier "said" than "done." During this workshop, you will gather with members of your Conference Mission Team and other mission teams in your jurisdiction to assess your conference's implementation of the Charter for Racial Justice thus far and to plan concrete next steps to strengthen your work in this area.
Led by Rev. J. Dana Trent.
Our lives are not static. Amid life's stresses and struggles, what is the recipe for an essential, balanced spiritual life? What spiritual practices foster healing and renewal? And what key ingredients invite us into a deeper relationship with God to help satiate our spiritual hunger? While Jesus' exterior life modeled ministry and service, his inner life was nourished by stillness, silence, prayer and spiritual practices. In this way, we are reminded that our faith consists of both action and contemplation.
Led by Rev. J. Dana Trent.
Our lives are not static. Amid life's stresses and struggles, what is the recipe for an essential, balanced spiritual life? What spiritual practices foster healing and renewal? And what key ingredients invite us into a deeper relationship with God to help satiate our spiritual hunger? While Jesus' exterior life modeled ministry and service, his inner life was nourished by stillness, silence, prayer and spiritual practices. In this way, we are reminded that our faith consists of both action and contemplation.
Led by Sophia Agtarap and Kim Brown Montenegro.
We have been taught that we should be good people. Our Christian scriptures and tradition teach us not to grow weary of doing good. But what happens when this notion of doing good prevents us from being better people? What happens when we conflate being a good person with being a just person? Join us for this interactive workshop where we will examine our own biases, habits and actions (or inaction!) that prevent us from being the justice-seeking people God made us to be, and develop strategies to disrupt these biases in our families, churches, organizations and workplaces. It is our hope that in looking inward and learning to notice the habits we have developed to be good people, we might then turn outward to love and serve others in more just-filled ways.
Led by Sophia Agtarap and Kim Brown Montenegro.
We have been taught that we should be good people. Our Christian scriptures and tradition teach us not to grow weary of doing good. But what happens when this notion of doing good prevents us from being better people? What happens when we conflate being a good person with being a just person? Join us for this interactive workshop where we will examine our own biases, habits and actions (or inaction!) that prevent us from being the justice-seeking people God made us to be, and develop strategies to disrupt these biases in our families, churches, organizations and workplaces. It is our hope that in looking inward and learning to notice the habits we have developed to be good people, we might then turn outward to love and serve others in more just-filled ways.
Led by Shannon Priddy.
What does leadership look like in 2022 and what does it mean to lead in a hybrid of virtual and live worlds? When you have completed your tenure and you still want to lead, what do you do next? This workshop will discuss opportunities for leadership with and without a title. Participants will have the time to create their own road map to navigate the changing world of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) and invite new women to participate. Participants will be encouraged to discuss their own unique situations to show the similarities many leaders experience when they do not hold an office.
Led by Shannon Priddy.
What does leadership look like in 2022 and what does it mean to lead in a hybrid of virtual and live worlds? When you have completed your tenure and you still want to lead, what do you do next? This workshop will discuss opportunities for leadership with and without a title. Participants will have the time to create their own road map to navigate the changing world of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) and invite new women to participate. Participants will be encouraged to discuss their own unique situations to show the similarities many leaders experience when they do not hold an office.
Led by M. Garlinda Burton.
Participants will learn how to "show up" confidently as Jesus-equipped activists and advocates for social justice and action by expressing and speaking the language of our Christian faith. This session will invite participants to describe their biblical and theological understanding of why followers of Jesus Christ MUST be in the public conversation SPECIFICALLY about racism, xenophobia and economic injustice. We will talk about why Christians are sometimes not trusted in these conversations and how to overcome that lack of trust.
Led by M. Garlinda Burton.
Participants will learn how to "show up" confidently as Jesus-equipped activists and advocates for social justice and action by expressing and speaking the language of our Christian faith. This session will invite participants to describe their biblical and theological understanding of why followers of Jesus Christ MUST be in the public conversation SPECIFICALLY about racism, xenophobia and economic injustice. We will talk about why Christians are sometimes not trusted in these conversations and how to overcome that lack of trust.
Led by Kenya Roberts and Sandy Wilder.
Join this workshop to learn and share creative fundraising ideas to support the mission work of your unit and grow gifts through your districts and conferences. Learn how we can work together, have fun and fundraise to fulfill our Purpose.
Led by Kenya Roberts and Sandy Wilder.
Join this workshop to learn and share creative fundraising ideas to support the mission work of your unit and grow gifts through your districts and conferences. Learn how we can work together, have fun and fundraise to fulfill our Purpose.
Led by Lydia Munoz and Giovanni Arroyo.
The most consistent public witness we do as congregations is worship. Every Sunday we gather to keep rituals that help us keep time and to make sense of the seasons of our lives. For most people, our spiritual formation comes from our weekly worship gathering, and more importantly how we come to understand God oftentimes takes place within that one hour that we gather together. Can worship be a place where we challenge the images of God that have been passed down to us? Can it be a place where images of God that have been co-opted by patriarchy, white supremacy and Christian nationalism are dismantled by intentionally creating worship that embraces the multiracial/multicultural/multi-image nature of God in order to dismantle racism?
This workshop will explore the importance of de-centering and dismantling whiteness in our worship experience as a public witness of our commitment to antiracism and antipatriarchy in the world. We will provide opportunities for participants to engage in conversations around images they have received themselves through their own experiences and what that does psychologically and spiritually, and provide practical worship resources that participants can go home with.
Led by Lydia Munoz and Giovanni Arroyo.
The most consistent public witness we do as congregations is worship. Every Sunday we gather to keep rituals that help us keep time and to make sense of the seasons of our lives. For most people, our spiritual formation comes from our weekly worship gathering, and more importantly how we come to understand God oftentimes takes place within that one hour that we gather together. Can worship be a place where we challenge the images of God that have been passed down to us? Can it be a place where images of God that have been co-opted by patriarchy, white supremacy and Christian nationalism are dismantled by intentionally creating worship that embraces the multiracial/multicultural/multi-image nature of God in order to dismantle racism?
This workshop will explore the importance of de-centering and dismantling whiteness in our worship experience as a public witness of our commitment to antiracism and antipatriarchy in the world. We will provide opportunities for participants to engage in conversations around images they have received themselves through their own experiences and what that does psychologically and spiritually, and provide practical worship resources that participants can go home with.
Led by Deaconess Catherine Inserra.
This interactive workshop, and a mini-retreat of sorts, will provide a place to explore the integrity and impact of the Lord's Prayer for our souls today. Our souls get muffled in the constant, changing demands for administrative responsibilities, whether in the local church, committee work, United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women )units, or overall organizational communication in nonprofits and startups. The prayer ceases to be the life-giving and gospel-centered prayer tradition it is meant to be. The increasing complexities of institutional and denominational structures cause undesirable stress which harms our souls, potentially causing us to feel vulnerable in our personal lives and leadership roles. And, our souls may despair given the overwhelming amount of suffering we see with children, youth and women. We can be sad, very sad, yet we must not despair as God calls us deeper into soul care and mission.
Participants will reengage with the tradition of praying the Lord's Prayer as life-giving, dynamic and foundational across the 2,000+ years of praying this prayer Jesus gave to us.
Led by Deaconess Catherine Inserra.
This interactive workshop, and a mini-retreat of sorts, will provide a place to explore the integrity and impact of the Lord's Prayer for our souls today. Our souls get muffled in the constant, changing demands for administrative responsibilities, whether in the local church, committee work, United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women )units, or overall organizational communication in nonprofits and startups. The prayer ceases to be the life-giving and gospel-centered prayer tradition it is meant to be. The increasing complexities of institutional and denominational structures cause undesirable stress which harms our souls, potentially causing us to feel vulnerable in our personal lives and leadership roles. And, our souls may despair given the overwhelming amount of suffering we see with children, youth and women. We can be sad, very sad, yet we must not despair as God calls us deeper into soul care and mission.
Participants will reengage with the tradition of praying the Lord's Prayer as life-giving, dynamic and foundational across the 2,000+ years of praying this prayer Jesus gave to us.
Led by Kim Lewis.
Julia Cameron said, "Creativity is God's gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God." Join in for an Art + Faith creative experience of nurturing your heart and soul. Do you have to be crafty and creative? Nope. You only need a willingness and an open heart and spirit to join in. This is an opportunity to express yourself, express your love of Christ through art, share in a spiritual adventure with others and have fun—no matter your age or skill level.
Whether you consider yourself to be artistic or not, you can worship God through art. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece, for God sees the heart: "For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12).
Led by Kim Lewis.
Julia Cameron said, "Creativity is God's gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God." Join in for an Art + Faith creative experience of nurturing your heart and soul. Do you have to be crafty and creative? Nope. You only need a willingness and an open heart and spirit to join in. This is an opportunity to express yourself, express your love of Christ through art, share in a spiritual adventure with others and have fun—no matter your age or skill level.
Whether you consider yourself to be artistic or not, you can worship God through art. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece, for God sees the heart: "For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12).
Led by Liz Theoharis.
Religious leadership has been critical to every social movement, but that leadership often comes from the margins, from those who are most impacted by the crisis at hand, and most able to see the necessity for broad systemic change. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The Church is too often a tail light instead of a headlight." But in a society where 140 million people are poor or low income, it is the responsibility of all people of conscience to shine a light on justice and come together to help lead movements for justice. As faith leaders, we join a long history and tradition of people bound by common struggle uniting across differences to confront the forces that violate life. As we discern how to continue in the ministry of Jesus Christ, we seek to realize a world where all are valued and can thrive.
This session will engage Methodist women members and leaders in a discussion on the methodology of "Reading the Bible with the Poor" and how it can be adapted for their own communities (30 minutes), followed by a Bible study of a particular scriptural passages (60 minutes) that speak to God's command to end poverty and racism. Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis will facilitate the session, joined by grassroots religious leaders who are a part of the Kairos Center's Freedom Church of the Poor and the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.
"Reading the Bible with the Poor" is not a biblical hermeneutic for the poor. Rather, it is a summary of a biblical hermeneutic developed out of struggle, living politics and a deep spirituality. The methodology itself is interested in uniting people across differences (in race, geography, religion, gender, ability and so on) rather than having those differences used by those in power to divide and isolate.
Led by Liz Theoharis.
Religious leadership has been critical to every social movement, but that leadership often comes from the margins, from those who are most impacted by the crisis at hand, and most able to see the necessity for broad systemic change. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The Church is too often a tail light instead of a headlight." But in a society where 140 million people are poor or low income, it is the responsibility of all people of conscience to shine a light on justice and come together to help lead movements for justice. As faith leaders, we join a long history and tradition of people bound by common struggle uniting across differences to confront the forces that violate life. As we discern how to continue in the ministry of Jesus Christ, we seek to realize a world where all are valued and can thrive.
This session will engage Methodist women members and leaders in a discussion on the methodology of "Reading the Bible with the Poor" and how it can be adapted for their own communities (30 minutes), followed by a Bible study of a particular scriptural passages (60 minutes) that speak to God's command to end poverty and racism. Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis will facilitate the session, joined by grassroots religious leaders who are a part of the Kairos Center's Freedom Church of the Poor and the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.
"Reading the Bible with the Poor" is not a biblical hermeneutic for the poor. Rather, it is a summary of a biblical hermeneutic developed out of struggle, living politics and a deep spirituality. The methodology itself is interested in uniting people across differences (in race, geography, religion, gender, ability and so on) rather than having those differences used by those in power to divide and isolate.
Led by Deaconess Amy Reimer and Deaconess Rosie Guadrrama.
Join us in this engaging workshop that combines soul care and social justice. Participants will learn to knit, while simultaneously discussing the discipleship of women in the Bible and discovering how they can use their crafting skills to achieve "intentional, nonviolent action for peace." Each participant will receive yarn, knitting needles and personal instructions on how to knit a square. They will also learn about Knitting4Peace (www.knitting4peace.org). Participants will keep all knitting supplies including their finished product, along with resources provided for how to start their own Peace Pod through Knitting4Peace.
Led by Deaconess Amy Reimer and Deaconess Rosie Guadrrama.
Join us in this engaging workshop that combines soul care and social justice. Participants will learn to knit, while simultaneously discussing the discipleship of women in the Bible and discovering how they can use their crafting skills to achieve "intentional, nonviolent action for peace." Each participant will receive yarn, knitting needles and personal instructions on how to knit a square. They will also learn about Knitting4Peace (www.knitting4peace.org). Participants will keep all knitting supplies including their finished product, along with resources provided for how to start their own Peace Pod through Knitting4Peace.
Led by Alzira Isaac Machauene.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for women to realize the potential residing in them to fight for their rights, and in turn to encourage other women to be firm and fight for their own empowerment and well-being.
Led by Alzira Isaac Machauene.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for women to realize the potential residing in them to fight for their rights, and in turn to encourage other women to be firm and fight for their own empowerment and well-being.
Led by Esher Barkat.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for self-discovery and awareness, helping us recognize, understand, label, express and regulate our emotions. Participants will learn to unlock the power of emotions to help themselves and others thrive in times like these. In addition to learning about our emotions, participants will have an opportunity to learn how to breathe and be mindful. This presentation will be based on Dr. Marc Brackett's book, "Permission To Feel: Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help our Kids, Ourselves, and Our Society Thrive."
Led by Esher Barkat.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for self-discovery and awareness, helping us recognize, understand, label, express and regulate our emotions. Participants will learn to unlock the power of emotions to help themselves and others thrive in times like these. In addition to learning about our emotions, participants will have an opportunity to learn how to breathe and be mindful. This presentation will be based on Dr. Marc Brackett's book, "Permission To Feel: Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help our Kids, Ourselves, and Our Society Thrive."
Led by Glory Dharmaraj.
In this workshop, we will contextualize the current moment as a vital space between two moments and two spaces. The present moment is a place between a forced exile—due to the pandemic—and a new normal, a space of post-pandemic recovery.
The story of "exile and post-exile" of God's children in the Bible offers a timeless interpretive lens and call for witness, as we move into a time of new normal. We will look at two interconnected passages in the Bible: Isaiah 61:1-4 and Luke 4:16-19. We will explore what new normal discipleship calls forth in us, as we follow the God of Home Coming (Isaiah) made concrete in Jesus' reading of the same message (Luke) in his hometown.
Led by Glory Dharmaraj.
In this workshop, we will contextualize the current moment as a vital space between two moments and two spaces. The present moment is a place between a forced exile—due to the pandemic—and a new normal, a space of post-pandemic recovery.
The story of "exile and post-exile" of God's children in the Bible offers a timeless interpretive lens and call for witness, as we move into a time of new normal. We will look at two interconnected passages in the Bible: Isaiah 61:1-4 and Luke 4:16-19. We will explore what new normal discipleship calls forth in us, as we follow the God of Home Coming (Isaiah) made concrete in Jesus' reading of the same message (Luke) in his hometown.
Led by Gail Douglas Boykin.
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the art of Bible journaling and practice different ways to explore this medium of scriptural study. Participants will will be involved in their own Bible journaling as a beautiful way to engage with scripture.
For this workshop, participants will need: A journaling Bible (a Bible that has large margins on the sides) or a Bible you don't mind drawing and writing in, pencil, eraser, colored pencils, crayons.
Led by Gail Douglas Boykin.
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the art of Bible journaling and practice different ways to explore this medium of scriptural study. Participants will will be involved in their own Bible journaling as a beautiful way to engage with scripture.
For this workshop, participants will need: A journaling Bible (a Bible that has large margins on the sides) or a Bible you don't mind drawing and writing in, pencil, eraser, colored pencils, crayons.
Led by Khia Shaw.
The immersive quality of a retreat experience creates change and builds bonds. This workshop will guide you through planning and hosting a soul care retreat using an experience map that is centered on welcoming, relevant and authentic connection opportunities. We will explore how to invite new communities, choose inspiring themes and offer tailored content that will nourish the mind, body and soul in spiritual, stress-relieving and creative ways.
Led by Khia Shaw.
The immersive quality of a retreat experience creates change and builds bonds. This workshop will guide you through planning and hosting a soul care retreat using an experience map that is centered on welcoming, relevant and authentic connection opportunities. We will explore how to invite new communities, choose inspiring themes and offer tailored content that will nourish the mind, body and soul in spiritual, stress-relieving and creative ways.
Led by Becky Williams and Rev. Pamela Pirtle.
Can a person determine your core values by observing the way you live your life? "The Way of Integrity," inspired by The Integrity Project at Emory University, was developed for laity to teach and encourage living in right relationship with oneself and others within the faith communities of our local UM ministries. Through deep exploration of scripture, spiritual practices and other resources, participants will give intentional attention to their core values and the development of self-awareness in all they do. This workshop will cover material that is easily adaptable for individuals and groups. Each participant will be provided with a Leader and Participant Workbook.
Led by Becky Williams and Rev. Pamela Pirtle.
Can a person determine your core values by observing the way you live your life? "The Way of Integrity," inspired by The Integrity Project at Emory University, was developed for laity to teach and encourage living in right relationship with oneself and others within the faith communities of our local UM ministries. Through deep exploration of scripture, spiritual practices and other resources, participants will give intentional attention to their core values and the development of self-awareness in all they do. This workshop will cover material that is easily adaptable for individuals and groups. Each participant will be provided with a Leader and Participant Workbook.
Led by Betty Gittens.
United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) are making a difference for countless women, children and youth around the world. This workshop will explore the organization's international work. We will discuss the impact of this work on poverty through the lens of our economic development initiatives, enhancing capacities of local women leaders and building successful partnerships with Central Conferences women and local United Women in Faith organizations.
Led by Betty Gittens.
United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) are making a difference for countless women, children and youth around the world. This workshop will explore the organization's international work. We will discuss the impact of this work on poverty through the lens of our economic development initiatives, enhancing capacities of local women leaders and building successful partnerships with Central Conferences women and local United Women in Faith organizations.
Led by Rev. J. Dana Trent.
Our lives are not static. Amid life's stresses and struggles, what is the recipe for an essential, balanced spiritual life? What spiritual practices foster healing and renewal? And what key ingredients invite us into a deeper relationship with God to help satiate our spiritual hunger? While Jesus' exterior life modeled ministry and service, his inner life was nourished by stillness, silence, prayer and spiritual practices. In this way, we are reminded that our faith consists of both action and contemplation.
Led by Rev. J. Dana Trent.
Our lives are not static. Amid life's stresses and struggles, what is the recipe for an essential, balanced spiritual life? What spiritual practices foster healing and renewal? And what key ingredients invite us into a deeper relationship with God to help satiate our spiritual hunger? While Jesus' exterior life modeled ministry and service, his inner life was nourished by stillness, silence, prayer and spiritual practices. In this way, we are reminded that our faith consists of both action and contemplation.
Led by Valerie Clark and Magdala Edmond.
In this interactive workshop, participants will be invited to: explore scriptures that speak to care of the soul, use your senses to experience God's presence and make an item that will contain a biblically based mantra of your choosing. Thoughts on taking care of your soul from the perspective of a young adult will also be explored. All examples and ideas shared in the workshop will be provided as a handout for participants to share with your sisters at home and in your communities.
Led by Valerie Clark and Magdala Edmond.
In this interactive workshop, participants will be invited to: explore scriptures that speak to care of the soul, use your senses to experience God's presence and make an item that will contain a biblically based mantra of your choosing. Thoughts on taking care of your soul from the perspective of a young adult will also be explored. All examples and ideas shared in the workshop will be provided as a handout for participants to share with your sisters at home and in your communities.
Led by Lauren Breck and Olivia McKinsey.
In this 90-minute session we'll explore the relationships of Mary and Martha and Naomi and Ruth through the use of midrash and open discussion. We will explore how, through their relationships, these women encouraged, challenged and uplifted one another to fulfill their calling in life. Through these connections we see boldness, sassiness, loyalty and fun emerge through challenges, missteps and triumphs. This exploration will show how God's divine plan of relationship strengthens our bonds to one another and most importantly to God.
Led by Lauren Breck and Olivia McKinsey.
In this 90-minute session we'll explore the relationships of Mary and Martha and Naomi and Ruth through the use of midrash and open discussion. We will explore how, through their relationships, these women encouraged, challenged and uplifted one another to fulfill their calling in life. Through these connections we see boldness, sassiness, loyalty and fun emerge through challenges, missteps and triumphs. This exploration will show how God's divine plan of relationship strengthens our bonds to one another and most importantly to God.
Led by Julie Noel.
Effective leadership that yields positive results—before, during, or after a pandemic—is intentional and influential. Recognizing that Jesus Christ is the ultimate model for "servant leadership," this interactive workshop will provide attendees an opportunity to explore a variety of servant leadership principles (seeking God's direction, discerning organizational culture, communicating expectations, team building, identifying desired outcomes, charting a plan forward and making as-needed adjustments, providing encouragement and support, etc.), and recognize the importance of applying Christ-centered servant leadership guidelines and principles to leadership roles at all levels of the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) organization and the church.
Led by Julie Noel.
Effective leadership that yields positive results—before, during, or after a pandemic—is intentional and influential. Recognizing that Jesus Christ is the ultimate model for "servant leadership," this interactive workshop will provide attendees an opportunity to explore a variety of servant leadership principles (seeking God's direction, discerning organizational culture, communicating expectations, team building, identifying desired outcomes, charting a plan forward and making as-needed adjustments, providing encouragement and support, etc.), and recognize the importance of applying Christ-centered servant leadership guidelines and principles to leadership roles at all levels of the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) organization and the church.
Led by Karen McElfish and Rita Simpkins-Smith.
From traveling to heating our homes and charging our phones, most of us have benefited from energy. But is the energy that fuels these possibilities just when the energy we consume is the primary cause of the climate crisis and air pollution? At this workshop, we will examine our own energy consumption and examine five reasons why women of faith should care about just energy for all. This workshop will provide an overview of United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) Just Energy for All campaign and concrete ways United Women in Faith can advocate for just energy.
Led by Karen McElfish and Rita Simpkins-Smith.
From traveling to heating our homes and charging our phones, most of us have benefited from energy. But is the energy that fuels these possibilities just when the energy we consume is the primary cause of the climate crisis and air pollution? At this workshop, we will examine our own energy consumption and examine five reasons why women of faith should care about just energy for all. This workshop will provide an overview of United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) Just Energy for All campaign and concrete ways United Women in Faith can advocate for just energy.
Led by Elmira Sellu and Catherine Akale.
This workshop will enable participants to learn about the different leadership styles and determine your own leadership style through self-assessment quizzes. You will ultimately be able to come up with the best style, if there is one. In the process, you will learn why it is necessary to learn about leadership and the various myths surrounding it. Participants will come up with a definition of leadership together and will brainstorm ways of becoming better leaders. The Bible will be searched to see what it says about leadership, and several references in the Bible will show Jesus as a great leader.
Led by Elmira Sellu and Catherine Akale.
This workshop will enable participants to learn about the different leadership styles and determine your own leadership style through self-assessment quizzes. You will ultimately be able to come up with the best style, if there is one. In the process, you will learn why it is necessary to learn about leadership and the various myths surrounding it. Participants will come up with a definition of leadership together and will brainstorm ways of becoming better leaders. The Bible will be searched to see what it says about leadership, and several references in the Bible will show Jesus as a great leader.
Led by Alzira Isaac Machauene.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for women to realize the potential residing in them to fight for their rights, and in turn to encourage other women to be firm and fight for their own empowerment and well-being.
Led by Alzira Isaac Machauene.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for women to realize the potential residing in them to fight for their rights, and in turn to encourage other women to be firm and fight for their own empowerment and well-being.
Led by Yvette Moore.
This workshop will empower participants with information about why and how the new brand was created and offer practical ways to use, share and promote United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) new brand.
Led by Yvette Moore.
This workshop will empower participants with information about why and how the new brand was created and offer practical ways to use, share and promote United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) new brand.
Led by Gail Douglas Boykin.
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the art of Bible journaling and practice different ways to explore this medium of scriptural study. Participants will will be involved in their own Bible journaling as a beautiful way to engage with scripture.
For this workshop, participants will need: A journaling Bible (a Bible that has large margins on the sides) or a Bible you don't mind drawing and writing in, pencil, eraser, colored pencils, crayons.
Led by Gail Douglas Boykin.
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the art of Bible journaling and practice different ways to explore this medium of scriptural study. Participants will will be involved in their own Bible journaling as a beautiful way to engage with scripture.
For this workshop, participants will need: A journaling Bible (a Bible that has large margins on the sides) or a Bible you don't mind drawing and writing in, pencil, eraser, colored pencils, crayons.
Led by Marsha Crockett.
Every person has the ability to hear God's voice and presence at work in her life if she is willing to listen. And listening begins in the heart, that sanctuary where the Spirit waits for us to enter. The prayer of St. Augustine encapsulates the desire to draw closer to God when he prayed, "Grant, Lord, that I may know myself, that I may know thee."
We are not a society practiced in the art of deep listening to our own lives and to how God meets us there. Nor do we have many safe places to explore life, to wonder and wander in the spiritual landscape of the soul, to contend with our own faith and wrestle with angels, as Jacob did, as God reveals new mercies and new identities within our hearts. And we have few, if any, places to be heard and companioned as we are, wherever we are on the spiritual journey.
Spiritual direction is a practice of companioning another to create safe, hospitable places to listen and discern God present and working in all things, forming us, leading us, loving us through it all. Insights from my own 20-year journey through spiritual direction, coupled with the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, will lay the foundation for each woman to explore and learn to listen and trust her own spiritual journey as she comes home to self, to God and to others.
Led by Marsha Crockett.
Every person has the ability to hear God's voice and presence at work in her life if she is willing to listen. And listening begins in the heart, that sanctuary where the Spirit waits for us to enter. The prayer of St. Augustine encapsulates the desire to draw closer to God when he prayed, "Grant, Lord, that I may know myself, that I may know thee."
We are not a society practiced in the art of deep listening to our own lives and to how God meets us there. Nor do we have many safe places to explore life, to wonder and wander in the spiritual landscape of the soul, to contend with our own faith and wrestle with angels, as Jacob did, as God reveals new mercies and new identities within our hearts. And we have few, if any, places to be heard and companioned as we are, wherever we are on the spiritual journey.
Spiritual direction is a practice of companioning another to create safe, hospitable places to listen and discern God present and working in all things, forming us, leading us, loving us through it all. Insights from my own 20-year journey through spiritual direction, coupled with the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, will lay the foundation for each woman to explore and learn to listen and trust her own spiritual journey as she comes home to self, to God and to others.
Led by Becky Williams and Rev. Pamela Pirtle.
Can a person determine your core values by observing the way you live your life? "The Way of Integrity," inspired by The Integrity Project at Emory University, was developed for laity to teach and encourage living in right relationship with oneself and others within the faith communities of our local UM ministries. Through deep exploration of scripture, spiritual practices and other resources, participants will give intentional attention to their core values and the development of self-awareness in all they do. This workshop will cover material that is easily adaptable for individuals and groups. Each participant will be provided with a Leader and Participant Workbook.
Led by Becky Williams and Rev. Pamela Pirtle.
Can a person determine your core values by observing the way you live your life? "The Way of Integrity," inspired by The Integrity Project at Emory University, was developed for laity to teach and encourage living in right relationship with oneself and others within the faith communities of our local UM ministries. Through deep exploration of scripture, spiritual practices and other resources, participants will give intentional attention to their core values and the development of self-awareness in all they do. This workshop will cover material that is easily adaptable for individuals and groups. Each participant will be provided with a Leader and Participant Workbook.
Moderated by Elizabeth Chun Hye Lee.
Panelists include Michael Leon Guerrero, Sarah Augustine, Adrienne Rice and Grace Musuka.
To address the climate crisis, climate scientists have noted the urgency to completely phase out fossil fuels and move toward 100-percent renewable energy economy-wide by 2050. This means overhauling the energy sector, where 80 percent of U.S. energy currently comes from fossil fuels, mostly for transportation and electricity generation.
As United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), we are not simply interested in reducing emissions while maintaining existing systems of oppression, but in being part of restoring right relationship with God, one another and creation. The current energy economy has undergirded the livelihood of millions of workers and surrounding communities. Moreover, the current energy system has disproportionately harmed Indigenous peoples' health, lands, sacred grounds and self-determination. It has harmed fence-line communities near fossil fuel facilities, power plants, waste sites and heavily trafficked roads and highways that were sited and placed in Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x and low-wealth communities. In addition, many in the U.S. face an energy burden, where a significant portion of their wages are directed to cover energy bills or face energy insecurity with little access to affordable energy. Globally, one billon people do not have access to energy and are least responsible for but bear the brunt of the climate crisis.
In this complex reality, how do we move from our current unjust energy system to a future energy economy that provides transitions that are just and equitable so that we truly realize Just Energy for All here in the U.S. and around the world? What would such just transitions look like? Join us for this town hall and hear from speakers who are working to advance just transition for workers, communities, Indigenous peoples and the world. Join to learn how we can be part of advancing just transition as United Women in Faith.
Moderated by Elizabeth Chun Hye Lee.
Panelists include Michael Leon Guerrero, Sarah Augustine, Adrienne Rice and Grace Musuka.
To address the climate crisis, climate scientists have noted the urgency to completely phase out fossil fuels and move toward 100-percent renewable energy economy-wide by 2050. This means overhauling the energy sector, where 80 percent of U.S. energy currently comes from fossil fuels, mostly for transportation and electricity generation.
As United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), we are not simply interested in reducing emissions while maintaining existing systems of oppression, but in being part of restoring right relationship with God, one another and creation. The current energy economy has undergirded the livelihood of millions of workers and surrounding communities. Moreover, the current energy system has disproportionately harmed Indigenous peoples' health, lands, sacred grounds and self-determination. It has harmed fence-line communities near fossil fuel facilities, power plants, waste sites and heavily trafficked roads and highways that were sited and placed in Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x and low-wealth communities. In addition, many in the U.S. face an energy burden, where a significant portion of their wages are directed to cover energy bills or face energy insecurity with little access to affordable energy. Globally, one billon people do not have access to energy and are least responsible for but bear the brunt of the climate crisis.
In this complex reality, how do we move from our current unjust energy system to a future energy economy that provides transitions that are just and equitable so that we truly realize Just Energy for All here in the U.S. and around the world? What would such just transitions look like? Join us for this town hall and hear from speakers who are working to advance just transition for workers, communities, Indigenous peoples and the world. Join to learn how we can be part of advancing just transition as United Women in Faith.
Moderated by Sally Vonner.
Panelists include M. Garlinda Burton, Lydia Munoz, Emily Jones, and Sophia Agtarap.
"For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father's family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this." (Esther 4:14)
Our Wesleyan tradition calls us to embrace both personal and social holiness, challenging racism at all levels for the sake of God's kin-dom. As United Methodist Women, we believe that racial justice must be a central guiding value in any conversation about the future of our church. This panel discussion invites church leaders to share tools and strategies for claiming a place at the table to collectively dismantle racism. We will learn about the history and present of The United Methodist Church, including the key role of the General Commission on Religion and Race and the UM caucuses. Together we will explore faithful action opportunities and building capacity for effective antiracist practice at multiple levels, from congregation to conference to the full connection. Panelists will share the ways that their faith strengthens them for this ongoing and difficult work as they invite you to join the journey.
Moderated by Sally Vonner.
Panelists include M. Garlinda Burton, Lydia Munoz, Emily Jones, and Sophia Agtarap.
"For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father's family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this." (Esther 4:14)
Our Wesleyan tradition calls us to embrace both personal and social holiness, challenging racism at all levels for the sake of God's kin-dom. As United Methodist Women, we believe that racial justice must be a central guiding value in any conversation about the future of our church. This panel discussion invites church leaders to share tools and strategies for claiming a place at the table to collectively dismantle racism. We will learn about the history and present of The United Methodist Church, including the key role of the General Commission on Religion and Race and the UM caucuses. Together we will explore faithful action opportunities and building capacity for effective antiracist practice at multiple levels, from congregation to conference to the full connection. Panelists will share the ways that their faith strengthens them for this ongoing and difficult work as they invite you to join the journey.
Led by Deaconess Catherine Inserra.
This interactive workshop, and a mini-retreat of sorts, will provide a place to explore the integrity and impact of the Lord's Prayer for our souls today. Our souls get muffled in the constant, changing demands for administrative responsibilities, whether in the local church, committee work, United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women )units, or overall organizational communication in nonprofits and startups. The prayer ceases to be the life-giving and gospel-centered prayer tradition it is meant to be. The increasing complexities of institutional and denominational structures cause undesirable stress which harms our souls, potentially causing us to feel vulnerable in our personal lives and leadership roles. And, our souls may despair given the overwhelming amount of suffering we see with children, youth and women. We can be sad, very sad, yet we must not despair as God calls us deeper into soul care and mission.
Participants will reengage with the tradition of praying the Lord's Prayer as life-giving, dynamic and foundational across the 2,000+ years of praying this prayer Jesus gave to us.
Led by Deaconess Catherine Inserra.
This interactive workshop, and a mini-retreat of sorts, will provide a place to explore the integrity and impact of the Lord's Prayer for our souls today. Our souls get muffled in the constant, changing demands for administrative responsibilities, whether in the local church, committee work, United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women )units, or overall organizational communication in nonprofits and startups. The prayer ceases to be the life-giving and gospel-centered prayer tradition it is meant to be. The increasing complexities of institutional and denominational structures cause undesirable stress which harms our souls, potentially causing us to feel vulnerable in our personal lives and leadership roles. And, our souls may despair given the overwhelming amount of suffering we see with children, youth and women. We can be sad, very sad, yet we must not despair as God calls us deeper into soul care and mission.
Participants will reengage with the tradition of praying the Lord's Prayer as life-giving, dynamic and foundational across the 2,000+ years of praying this prayer Jesus gave to us.
Led by Valerie Clark and Magdala Edmond.
In this interactive workshop, participants will be invited to: explore scriptures that speak to care of the soul, use your senses to experience God's presence and make an item that will contain a biblically based mantra of your choosing. Thoughts on taking care of your soul from the perspective of a young adult will also be explored. All examples and ideas shared in the workshop will be provided as a handout for participants to share with your sisters at home and in your communities.
Led by Valerie Clark and Magdala Edmond.
In this interactive workshop, participants will be invited to: explore scriptures that speak to care of the soul, use your senses to experience God's presence and make an item that will contain a biblically based mantra of your choosing. Thoughts on taking care of your soul from the perspective of a young adult will also be explored. All examples and ideas shared in the workshop will be provided as a handout for participants to share with your sisters at home and in your communities.
Led by Lauren Breck and Olivia McKinsey.
In this 90-minute session we'll explore the relationships of Mary and Martha and Naomi and Ruth through the use of midrash and open discussion. We will explore how, through their relationships, these women encouraged, challenged and uplifted one another to fulfill their calling in life. Through these connections we see boldness, sassiness, loyalty and fun emerge through challenges, missteps and triumphs. This exploration will show how God's divine plan of relationship strengthens our bonds to one another and most importantly to God.
Led by Lauren Breck and Olivia McKinsey.
In this 90-minute session we'll explore the relationships of Mary and Martha and Naomi and Ruth through the use of midrash and open discussion. We will explore how, through their relationships, these women encouraged, challenged and uplifted one another to fulfill their calling in life. Through these connections we see boldness, sassiness, loyalty and fun emerge through challenges, missteps and triumphs. This exploration will show how God's divine plan of relationship strengthens our bonds to one another and most importantly to God.
Led by Julie Noel.
Effective leadership that yields positive results—before, during, or after a pandemic—is intentional and influential. Recognizing that Jesus Christ is the ultimate model for "servant leadership," this interactive workshop will provide attendees an opportunity to explore a variety of servant leadership principles (seeking God's direction, discerning organizational culture, communicating expectations, team building, identifying desired outcomes, charting a plan forward and making as-needed adjustments, providing encouragement and support, etc.), and recognize the importance of applying Christ-centered servant leadership guidelines and principles to leadership roles at all levels of the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) organization and the church.
Led by Julie Noel.
Effective leadership that yields positive results—before, during, or after a pandemic—is intentional and influential. Recognizing that Jesus Christ is the ultimate model for "servant leadership," this interactive workshop will provide attendees an opportunity to explore a variety of servant leadership principles (seeking God's direction, discerning organizational culture, communicating expectations, team building, identifying desired outcomes, charting a plan forward and making as-needed adjustments, providing encouragement and support, etc.), and recognize the importance of applying Christ-centered servant leadership guidelines and principles to leadership roles at all levels of the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) organization and the church.
Led by Karen McElfish and Rita Simpkins-Smith.
From traveling to heating our homes and charging our phones, most of us have benefited from energy. But is the energy that fuels these possibilities just when the energy we consume is the primary cause of the climate crisis and air pollution? At this workshop, we will examine our own energy consumption and examine five reasons why women of faith should care about just energy for all. This workshop will provide an overview of United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) Just Energy for All campaign and concrete ways United Women in Faith can advocate for just energy.
Led by Karen McElfish and Rita Simpkins-Smith.
From traveling to heating our homes and charging our phones, most of us have benefited from energy. But is the energy that fuels these possibilities just when the energy we consume is the primary cause of the climate crisis and air pollution? At this workshop, we will examine our own energy consumption and examine five reasons why women of faith should care about just energy for all. This workshop will provide an overview of United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) Just Energy for All campaign and concrete ways United Women in Faith can advocate for just energy.
Led by Sophia Agtarap and Kim Brown Montenegro.
We have been taught that we should be good people. Our Christian scriptures and tradition teach us not to grow weary of doing good. But what happens when this notion of doing good prevents us from being better people? What happens when we conflate being a good person with being a just person? Join us for this interactive workshop where we will examine our own biases, habits and actions (or inaction!) that prevent us from being the justice-seeking people God made us to be, and develop strategies to disrupt these biases in our families, churches, organizations and workplaces. It is our hope that in looking inward and learning to notice the habits we have developed to be good people, we might then turn outward to love and serve others in more just-filled ways.
Led by Sophia Agtarap and Kim Brown Montenegro.
We have been taught that we should be good people. Our Christian scriptures and tradition teach us not to grow weary of doing good. But what happens when this notion of doing good prevents us from being better people? What happens when we conflate being a good person with being a just person? Join us for this interactive workshop where we will examine our own biases, habits and actions (or inaction!) that prevent us from being the justice-seeking people God made us to be, and develop strategies to disrupt these biases in our families, churches, organizations and workplaces. It is our hope that in looking inward and learning to notice the habits we have developed to be good people, we might then turn outward to love and serve others in more just-filled ways.
Led by Faye Wilson.
Participants will learn to embrace their capacity for wholistic self-care by getting acquainted with their inner healer. The workshop will offer opportunities and resources to grow spiritually with practices that nourish the mind, body and soul: calming the triple warmer meridian, EFT (emotional freedom technique) tapping, butterfly hugs, affirmations, straw breathing. Presenters will provide an overview of the role of the brain in understanding and healing trauma and anxiety. Workshop members will be connected to biblical stories that address various emotions. Through personal and group spiritual formation as well as self-inventory, participants will affirm their capacity to influence their well-being in helping God maintain their sense of healthy adequacy.
Led by Faye Wilson.
Participants will learn to embrace their capacity for wholistic self-care by getting acquainted with their inner healer. The workshop will offer opportunities and resources to grow spiritually with practices that nourish the mind, body and soul: calming the triple warmer meridian, EFT (emotional freedom technique) tapping, butterfly hugs, affirmations, straw breathing. Presenters will provide an overview of the role of the brain in understanding and healing trauma and anxiety. Workshop members will be connected to biblical stories that address various emotions. Through personal and group spiritual formation as well as self-inventory, participants will affirm their capacity to influence their well-being in helping God maintain their sense of healthy adequacy.
Led by Glory Dharmaraj.
In this workshop, we will contextualize the current moment as a vital space between two moments and two spaces. The present moment is a place between a forced exile—due to the pandemic—and a new normal, a space of post-pandemic recovery.
The story of "exile and post-exile" of God's children in the Bible offers a timeless interpretive lens and call for witness, as we move into a time of new normal. We will look at two interconnected passages in the Bible: Isaiah 61:1-4 and Luke 4:16-19. We will explore what new normal discipleship calls forth in us, as we follow the God of Home Coming (Isaiah) made concrete in Jesus' reading of the same message (Luke) in his hometown.
Led by Glory Dharmaraj.
In this workshop, we will contextualize the current moment as a vital space between two moments and two spaces. The present moment is a place between a forced exile—due to the pandemic—and a new normal, a space of post-pandemic recovery.
The story of "exile and post-exile" of God's children in the Bible offers a timeless interpretive lens and call for witness, as we move into a time of new normal. We will look at two interconnected passages in the Bible: Isaiah 61:1-4 and Luke 4:16-19. We will explore what new normal discipleship calls forth in us, as we follow the God of Home Coming (Isaiah) made concrete in Jesus' reading of the same message (Luke) in his hometown.
Led by Khia Shaw.
The immersive quality of a retreat experience creates change and builds bonds. This workshop will guide you through planning and hosting a soul care retreat using an experience map that is centered on welcoming, relevant and authentic connection opportunities. We will explore how to invite new communities, choose inspiring themes and offer tailored content that will nourish the mind, body and soul in spiritual, stress-relieving and creative ways.
Led by Khia Shaw.
The immersive quality of a retreat experience creates change and builds bonds. This workshop will guide you through planning and hosting a soul care retreat using an experience map that is centered on welcoming, relevant and authentic connection opportunities. We will explore how to invite new communities, choose inspiring themes and offer tailored content that will nourish the mind, body and soul in spiritual, stress-relieving and creative ways.
Led by Marsha Crockett.
Every person has the ability to hear God's voice and presence at work in her life if she is willing to listen. And listening begins in the heart, that sanctuary where the Spirit waits for us to enter. The prayer of St. Augustine encapsulates the desire to draw closer to God when he prayed, "Grant, Lord, that I may know myself, that I may know thee."
We are not a society practiced in the art of deep listening to our own lives and to how God meets us there. Nor do we have many safe places to explore life, to wonder and wander in the spiritual landscape of the soul, to contend with our own faith and wrestle with angels, as Jacob did, as God reveals new mercies and new identities within our hearts. And we have few, if any, places to be heard and companioned as we are, wherever we are on the spiritual journey.
Spiritual direction is a practice of companioning another to create safe, hospitable places to listen and discern God present and working in all things, forming us, leading us, loving us through it all. Insights from my own 20-year journey through spiritual direction, coupled with the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, will lay the foundation for each woman to explore and learn to listen and trust her own spiritual journey as she comes home to self, to God and to others.
Led by Marsha Crockett.
Every person has the ability to hear God's voice and presence at work in her life if she is willing to listen. And listening begins in the heart, that sanctuary where the Spirit waits for us to enter. The prayer of St. Augustine encapsulates the desire to draw closer to God when he prayed, "Grant, Lord, that I may know myself, that I may know thee."
We are not a society practiced in the art of deep listening to our own lives and to how God meets us there. Nor do we have many safe places to explore life, to wonder and wander in the spiritual landscape of the soul, to contend with our own faith and wrestle with angels, as Jacob did, as God reveals new mercies and new identities within our hearts. And we have few, if any, places to be heard and companioned as we are, wherever we are on the spiritual journey.
Spiritual direction is a practice of companioning another to create safe, hospitable places to listen and discern God present and working in all things, forming us, leading us, loving us through it all. Insights from my own 20-year journey through spiritual direction, coupled with the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, will lay the foundation for each woman to explore and learn to listen and trust her own spiritual journey as she comes home to self, to God and to others.
Led by Emily Jones.
The school-to-prison pipeline detours far too many children and youth away from educational success and toward the criminal justice system. Racial disparities in discipline persist at all levels and children of color—including girls of color—experience rampant school pushout. As prayerful and powerful women of faith, God can use us to put a stop to this disturbing pattern. During this introductory workshop, we will build our understanding of the pipeline through the framework of the Wesleyan quadrilateral and learn ways we can take action both nationally and locally to revise harmful policies, practices and beliefs. No prior experience or knowledge is needed—all are welcome.
Led by Emily Jones.
The school-to-prison pipeline detours far too many children and youth away from educational success and toward the criminal justice system. Racial disparities in discipline persist at all levels and children of color—including girls of color—experience rampant school pushout. As prayerful and powerful women of faith, God can use us to put a stop to this disturbing pattern. During this introductory workshop, we will build our understanding of the pipeline through the framework of the Wesleyan quadrilateral and learn ways we can take action both nationally and locally to revise harmful policies, practices and beliefs. No prior experience or knowledge is needed—all are welcome.
Led by Kim Lewis.
Julia Cameron said, "Creativity is God's gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God." Join in for an Art + Faith creative experience of nurturing your heart and soul. Do you have to be crafty and creative? Nope. You only need a willingness and an open heart and spirit to join in. This is an opportunity to express yourself, express your love of Christ through art, share in a spiritual adventure with others and have fun—no matter your age or skill level.
Whether you consider yourself to be artistic or not, you can worship God through art. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece, for God sees the heart: "For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12).
Led by Kim Lewis.
Julia Cameron said, "Creativity is God's gift to us. Using our creativity is our gift back to God." Join in for an Art + Faith creative experience of nurturing your heart and soul. Do you have to be crafty and creative? Nope. You only need a willingness and an open heart and spirit to join in. This is an opportunity to express yourself, express your love of Christ through art, share in a spiritual adventure with others and have fun—no matter your age or skill level.
Whether you consider yourself to be artistic or not, you can worship God through art. It doesn't have to be a masterpiece, for God sees the heart: "For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12).
Led by Liz Theoharis.
Religious leadership has been critical to every social movement, but that leadership often comes from the margins, from those who are most impacted by the crisis at hand, and most able to see the necessity for broad systemic change. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The Church is too often a tail light instead of a headlight." But in a society where 140 million people are poor or low income, it is the responsibility of all people of conscience to shine a light on justice and come together to help lead movements for justice. As faith leaders, we join a long history and tradition of people bound by common struggle uniting across differences to confront the forces that violate life. As we discern how to continue in the ministry of Jesus Christ, we seek to realize a world where all are valued and can thrive.
This session will engage Methodist women members and leaders in a discussion on the methodology of "Reading the Bible with the Poor" and how it can be adapted for their own communities (30 minutes), followed by a Bible study of a particular scriptural passages (60 minutes) that speak to God's command to end poverty and racism. Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis will facilitate the session, joined by grassroots religious leaders who are a part of the Kairos Center's Freedom Church of the Poor and the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.
"Reading the Bible with the Poor" is not a biblical hermeneutic for the poor. Rather, it is a summary of a biblical hermeneutic developed out of struggle, living politics and a deep spirituality. The methodology itself is interested in uniting people across differences (in race, geography, religion, gender, ability and so on) rather than having those differences used by those in power to divide and isolate.
Led by Liz Theoharis.
Religious leadership has been critical to every social movement, but that leadership often comes from the margins, from those who are most impacted by the crisis at hand, and most able to see the necessity for broad systemic change. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The Church is too often a tail light instead of a headlight." But in a society where 140 million people are poor or low income, it is the responsibility of all people of conscience to shine a light on justice and come together to help lead movements for justice. As faith leaders, we join a long history and tradition of people bound by common struggle uniting across differences to confront the forces that violate life. As we discern how to continue in the ministry of Jesus Christ, we seek to realize a world where all are valued and can thrive.
This session will engage Methodist women members and leaders in a discussion on the methodology of "Reading the Bible with the Poor" and how it can be adapted for their own communities (30 minutes), followed by a Bible study of a particular scriptural passages (60 minutes) that speak to God's command to end poverty and racism. Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis will facilitate the session, joined by grassroots religious leaders who are a part of the Kairos Center's Freedom Church of the Poor and the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.
"Reading the Bible with the Poor" is not a biblical hermeneutic for the poor. Rather, it is a summary of a biblical hermeneutic developed out of struggle, living politics and a deep spirituality. The methodology itself is interested in uniting people across differences (in race, geography, religion, gender, ability and so on) rather than having those differences used by those in power to divide and isolate.
Led by Deaconess Amy Reimer and Deaconess Rosie Guadrrama.
Join us in this engaging workshop that combines soul care and social justice. Participants will learn to knit, while simultaneously discussing the discipleship of women in the Bible and discovering how they can use their crafting skills to achieve "intentional, nonviolent action for peace." Each participant will receive yarn, knitting needles and personal instructions on how to knit a square. They will also learn about Knitting4Peace (www.knitting4peace.org). Participants will keep all knitting supplies including their finished product, along with resources provided for how to start their own Peace Pod through Knitting4Peace.
Led by Deaconess Amy Reimer and Deaconess Rosie Guadrrama.
Join us in this engaging workshop that combines soul care and social justice. Participants will learn to knit, while simultaneously discussing the discipleship of women in the Bible and discovering how they can use their crafting skills to achieve "intentional, nonviolent action for peace." Each participant will receive yarn, knitting needles and personal instructions on how to knit a square. They will also learn about Knitting4Peace (www.knitting4peace.org). Participants will keep all knitting supplies including their finished product, along with resources provided for how to start their own Peace Pod through Knitting4Peace.
Led by Faye Wilson.
Participants will learn to embrace their capacity for wholistic self-care by getting acquainted with their inner healer. The workshop will offer opportunities and resources to grow spiritually with practices that nourish the mind, body and soul: calming the triple warmer meridian, EFT (emotional freedom technique) tapping, butterfly hugs, affirmations, straw breathing. Presenters will provide an overview of the role of the brain in understanding and healing trauma and anxiety. Workshop members will be connected to biblical stories that address various emotions. Through personal and group spiritual formation as well as self-inventory, participants will affirm their capacity to influence their well-being in helping God maintain their sense of healthy adequacy.
Led by Faye Wilson.
Participants will learn to embrace their capacity for wholistic self-care by getting acquainted with their inner healer. The workshop will offer opportunities and resources to grow spiritually with practices that nourish the mind, body and soul: calming the triple warmer meridian, EFT (emotional freedom technique) tapping, butterfly hugs, affirmations, straw breathing. Presenters will provide an overview of the role of the brain in understanding and healing trauma and anxiety. Workshop members will be connected to biblical stories that address various emotions. Through personal and group spiritual formation as well as self-inventory, participants will affirm their capacity to influence their well-being in helping God maintain their sense of healthy adequacy.
Led by Elmira Sellu and Catherine Akale.
This workshop will enable participants to learn about the different leadership styles and determine your own leadership style through self-assessment quizzes. You will ultimately be able to come up with the best style, if there is one. In the process, you will learn why it is necessary to learn about leadership and the various myths surrounding it. Participants will come up with a definition of leadership together and will brainstorm ways of becoming better leaders. The Bible will be searched to see what it says about leadership, and several references in the Bible will show Jesus as a great leader.
Led by Elmira Sellu and Catherine Akale.
This workshop will enable participants to learn about the different leadership styles and determine your own leadership style through self-assessment quizzes. You will ultimately be able to come up with the best style, if there is one. In the process, you will learn why it is necessary to learn about leadership and the various myths surrounding it. Participants will come up with a definition of leadership together and will brainstorm ways of becoming better leaders. The Bible will be searched to see what it says about leadership, and several references in the Bible will show Jesus as a great leader.
Led by Esher Barkat.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for self-discovery and awareness, helping us recognize, understand, label, express and regulate our emotions. Participants will learn to unlock the power of emotions to help themselves and others thrive in times like these. In addition to learning about our emotions, participants will have an opportunity to learn how to breathe and be mindful. This presentation will be based on Dr. Marc Brackett's book, "Permission To Feel: Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help our Kids, Ourselves, and Our Society Thrive."
Led by Esher Barkat.
This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for self-discovery and awareness, helping us recognize, understand, label, express and regulate our emotions. Participants will learn to unlock the power of emotions to help themselves and others thrive in times like these. In addition to learning about our emotions, participants will have an opportunity to learn how to breathe and be mindful. This presentation will be based on Dr. Marc Brackett's book, "Permission To Feel: Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help our Kids, Ourselves, and Our Society Thrive."
Led by Shannon Priddy.
What does leadership look like in 2022 and what does it mean to lead in a hybrid of virtual and live worlds? When you have completed your tenure and you still want to lead, what do you do next? This workshop will discuss opportunities for leadership with and without a title. Participants will have the time to create their own road map to navigate the changing world of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) and invite new women to participate. Participants will be encouraged to discuss their own unique situations to show the similarities many leaders experience when they do not hold an office.
Led by Shannon Priddy.
What does leadership look like in 2022 and what does it mean to lead in a hybrid of virtual and live worlds? When you have completed your tenure and you still want to lead, what do you do next? This workshop will discuss opportunities for leadership with and without a title. Participants will have the time to create their own road map to navigate the changing world of United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) and invite new women to participate. Participants will be encouraged to discuss their own unique situations to show the similarities many leaders experience when they do not hold an office.
Led by M. Garlinda Burton.
Participants will learn how to "show up" confidently as Jesus-equipped activists and advocates for social justice and action by expressing and speaking the language of our Christian faith. This session will invite participants to describe their biblical and theological understanding of why followers of Jesus Christ MUST be in the public conversation SPECIFICALLY about racism, xenophobia and economic injustice. We will talk about why Christians are sometimes not trusted in these conversations and how to overcome that lack of trust.
Led by M. Garlinda Burton.
Participants will learn how to "show up" confidently as Jesus-equipped activists and advocates for social justice and action by expressing and speaking the language of our Christian faith. This session will invite participants to describe their biblical and theological understanding of why followers of Jesus Christ MUST be in the public conversation SPECIFICALLY about racism, xenophobia and economic injustice. We will talk about why Christians are sometimes not trusted in these conversations and how to overcome that lack of trust.
Led by Kenya Roberts and Sandy Wilder.
Join this workshop to learn and share creative fundraising ideas to support the mission work of your unit and grow gifts through your districts and conferences. Learn how we can work together, have fun and fundraise to fulfill our Purpose.
Led by Kenya Roberts and Sandy Wilder.
Join this workshop to learn and share creative fundraising ideas to support the mission work of your unit and grow gifts through your districts and conferences. Learn how we can work together, have fun and fundraise to fulfill our Purpose.
Led by Betty Gittens.
United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) are making a difference for countless women, children and youth around the world. This workshop will explore the organization's international work. We will discuss the impact of this work on poverty through the lens of our economic development initiatives, enhancing capacities of local women leaders and building successful partnerships with Central Conferences women and local United Women in Faith organizations.
Led by Betty Gittens.
United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) are making a difference for countless women, children and youth around the world. This workshop will explore the organization's international work. We will discuss the impact of this work on poverty through the lens of our economic development initiatives, enhancing capacities of local women leaders and building successful partnerships with Central Conferences women and local United Women in Faith organizations.
Led by Lydia Munoz and Giovanni Arroyo.
The most consistent public witness we do as congregations is worship. Every Sunday we gather to keep rituals that help us keep time and to make sense of the seasons of our lives. For most people, our spiritual formation comes from our weekly worship gathering, and more importantly how we come to understand God oftentimes takes place within that one hour that we gather together. Can worship be a place where we challenge the images of God that have been passed down to us? Can it be a place where images of God that have been co-opted by patriarchy, white supremacy and Christian nationalism are dismantled by intentionally creating worship that embraces the multiracial/multicultural/multi-image nature of God in order to dismantle racism?
This workshop will explore the importance of de-centering and dismantling whiteness in our worship experience as a public witness of our commitment to antiracism and antipatriarchy in the world. We will provide opportunities for participants to engage in conversations around images they have received themselves through their own experiences and what that does psychologically and spiritually, and provide practical worship resources that participants can go home with.
Led by Lydia Munoz and Giovanni Arroyo.
The most consistent public witness we do as congregations is worship. Every Sunday we gather to keep rituals that help us keep time and to make sense of the seasons of our lives. For most people, our spiritual formation comes from our weekly worship gathering, and more importantly how we come to understand God oftentimes takes place within that one hour that we gather together. Can worship be a place where we challenge the images of God that have been passed down to us? Can it be a place where images of God that have been co-opted by patriarchy, white supremacy and Christian nationalism are dismantled by intentionally creating worship that embraces the multiracial/multicultural/multi-image nature of God in order to dismantle racism?
This workshop will explore the importance of de-centering and dismantling whiteness in our worship experience as a public witness of our commitment to antiracism and antipatriarchy in the world. We will provide opportunities for participants to engage in conversations around images they have received themselves through their own experiences and what that does psychologically and spiritually, and provide practical worship resources that participants can go home with.
Led by Mollie James-Vickery.
For Conference Committee on Nominations chairpersons, this workshop offers important tools for fulfilling this role. It will include informational content as well as time for skill-building and networking.
Led by Mollie James-Vickery.
For Conference Committee on Nominations chairpersons, this workshop offers important tools for fulfilling this role. It will include informational content as well as time for skill-building and networking.
Led by Katie Willis and Alice Staley.
Learn more about the role of your new conference communications coordinators, meet fellow communicators and learn some tips and tricks.
Led by Katie Willis and Alice Staley.
Learn more about the role of your new conference communications coordinators, meet fellow communicators and learn some tips and tricks.
Led by Haejin Ban and Magdala Edmond.
This interactive workshop will provide language coordinators an opportunity for understanding their roles and responsibilities, learning how to work together with their own language/ethnic group, the conference leadership team and the national office. They will also learn where to find and how to utilize United Methodist Women resource materials. Language coordinators will be involved in creating a plan for introducing/promoting United Methodist Women mission work to women whose first language is not English in order to encourage and lead them to participate in United Methodist Women mission/events.
Led by Haejin Ban and Magdala Edmond.
This interactive workshop will provide language coordinators an opportunity for understanding their roles and responsibilities, learning how to work together with their own language/ethnic group, the conference leadership team and the national office. They will also learn where to find and how to utilize United Methodist Women resource materials. Language coordinators will be involved in creating a plan for introducing/promoting United Methodist Women mission work to women whose first language is not English in order to encourage and lead them to participate in United Methodist Women mission/events.
Led by Katie Pryor.
Plant, Sow and Grow: This interactive workshop will explore member engagement as the process of actively building, nurturing and managing relationships with various audiences. Participants will learn of new pathways into membership and will be asked to create a value proposition based on generation, ethnicity and/or interest. Participants will have access to membership intelligence and personas to create tailored engagement campaigns that can lead to membership growth, active participation and lifetime membership value.
Led by Katie Pryor.
Plant, Sow and Grow: This interactive workshop will explore member engagement as the process of actively building, nurturing and managing relationships with various audiences. Participants will learn of new pathways into membership and will be asked to create a value proposition based on generation, ethnicity and/or interest. Participants will have access to membership intelligence and personas to create tailored engagement campaigns that can lead to membership growth, active participation and lifetime membership value.
Led by Sally Vonner.
Conference presidents have a lot to share and a lot to learn from each other. This session is organized to provide conference presidents the opportunity to share experiences, network, and engage in strategic thinking about the work in their own conferences and the organization
as a whole. Explore opportunities that flexibility presents for a post-pandemic context and learn strategies for resolving conflict to build an effective conference leadership team.
Led by Sally Vonner.
Conference presidents have a lot to share and a lot to learn from each other. This session is organized to provide conference presidents the opportunity to share experiences, network, and engage in strategic thinking about the work in their own conferences and the organization
as a whole. Explore opportunities that flexibility presents for a post-pandemic context and learn strategies for resolving conflict to build an effective conference leadership team.
Led by Ruby Anderson and Inez Freeman.
Join the Resource Room Management workshop to identify how you can help your conference/district/unit with resources, the Reading Program, response magazine, brochures and promotional materials, including where to find them.
Led by Ruby Anderson and Inez Freeman.
Join the Resource Room Management workshop to identify how you can help your conference/district/unit with resources, the Reading Program, response magazine, brochures and promotional materials, including where to find them.
Led by Susan Moberg.
This workshop is designed to equip conference secretaries with basic knowledge to perform their role. Networking time will be provided to ask questions and share information with peers.
Led by Susan Moberg.
This workshop is designed to equip conference secretaries with basic knowledge to perform their role. Networking time will be provided to ask questions and share information with peers.
Led by Tamara Clark, Jessica Tulloch and Halina Mui.
This workshop will provide an opportunity for Conference Mission Coordinators for Education and Interpretation and Conference Treasurers to enrich their basic knowledge of the role and its responsibilities. The work of the conference treasurer includes keeping financial records, receiving and distributing funds, providing financial reports, training district treasurers and more. Our training will first ground you in the biblical background for giving. Utilizing participatory activities and the expertise of our cohort, we will spend time addressing the day-to-day challenges of E&I and Treasurer work, while celebrating its joys.
Led by Tamara Clark, Jessica Tulloch and Halina Mui.
This workshop will provide an opportunity for Conference Mission Coordinators for Education and Interpretation and Conference Treasurers to enrich their basic knowledge of the role and its responsibilities. The work of the conference treasurer includes keeping financial records, receiving and distributing funds, providing financial reports, training district treasurers and more. Our training will first ground you in the biblical background for giving. Utilizing participatory activities and the expertise of our cohort, we will spend time addressing the day-to-day challenges of E&I and Treasurer work, while celebrating its joys.
Led by Kim Harris.
For conference vice presidents, this workshop offers important tools for fulfilling this role. It will include informational content as well as time for skill-building and networking.
Led by Kim Harris.
For conference vice presidents, this workshop offers important tools for fulfilling this role. It will include informational content as well as time for skill-building and networking.
Led by Nora Asedillo Cunningham.
This is a training for the conference spiritual growth coordinators. The training will be geared toward things the coordinators identify as challenges. We will create time for networking and idea-sharing/support. Coordinators will maximize their own leadership in conducting the training.
Led by Nora Asedillo Cunningham.
This is a training for the conference spiritual growth coordinators. The training will be geared toward things the coordinators identify as challenges. We will create time for networking and idea-sharing/support. Coordinators will maximize their own leadership in conducting the training.
Led by Yvette Moore.
This workshop will empower participants with information about why and how the new brand was created and offer practical ways to use, share and promote United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) new brand.
Led by Yvette Moore.
This workshop will empower participants with information about why and how the new brand was created and offer practical ways to use, share and promote United Women in Faith's (formerly United Methodist Women) new brand.
Moderated by Jennifer Farmer.
Panelists include Alzira Isaac Machauene, Emma Cantor, Sung-ok Lee and Gail Douglas Boykin.
Leadership development is a hallmark of United Methodist Women. This Town Hall will spotlight United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) members and United Methodist Women-related programs leading their communities in unique ways. It will explore characteristics/skills women can hone—and pitfalls to avoid—to be more effective leaders.
Moderated by Jennifer Farmer.
Panelists include Alzira Isaac Machauene, Emma Cantor, Sung-ok Lee and Gail Douglas Boykin.
Leadership development is a hallmark of United Methodist Women. This Town Hall will spotlight United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) members and United Methodist Women-related programs leading their communities in unique ways. It will explore characteristics/skills women can hone—and pitfalls to avoid—to be more effective leaders.
Moderated by Emily Jones.
Join us for a film screening of "Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools." The screening will be followed by a time of reflection and discussion as we explore how United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) members and friends can take action to interrupt the school-to-prison pipeline.
Moderated by Emily Jones.
Join us for a film screening of "Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools." The screening will be followed by a time of reflection and discussion as we explore how United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women) members and friends can take action to interrupt the school-to-prison pipeline.