Turning faith, hope and love into action on behalf of
women, children and youth around the world . . . .
According to the WNCC UMW web site, “Each year, United Methodist Women gather at locations all over the United States to learn more about missions and about being in mission. In a United Methodist News Service commentary…Schools of Christian Mission…now MISSION U, were described as some of the very best lay faith education being offered in The United Methodist Church. In our Western North Carolina Conference Mission u, three courses of study are offered, along with a variety of other opportunities.”
Each July, Pfeiffer looks forward to welcoming the UMW from around our annual conference. This year, we had approximately 300 women who took part in the school. Approximately 150 were residential students, and the other half came for one day overviews. Offerings included a spiritual growth study focusing on the Beatitudes, a geographical study on Latin America and a social issue study of the Church and people with disabilities.
Last year, the UMW and Missionu committee, took a large leap of faith and extended the reach and impact of the event to include a residential camp for youth. This year 15 youth from the across the conference took part in a study on Latin America, and as part of that study, traveled to Mission Adonai in Asheboro to deliver VBS to approximately 100 children from the community! Beach Party, Surfing the Word was the theme, and through crafts, music, recreation and story, they shared the good news that we can “Trust in the Lord,” and that trust allows us to “Get out of the Boat and Walk on the Water!” The youth camp delivered on the UMW promise to LEARN ABOUT and BE ABOUT mission!
Next year’s Mission u will be held at Pfeiffer University from July 21-24. There will once again be a youth residential camp. Registration will begin in May 2016, but you can contact your local UMW unit to learn more about it and become a part. The youth camp is limited to 20 participants, so mark your calendars now for next summer.
A special thanks to Pastor Ana Morrison for allowing us to come and be a part of her community, and to the UMW for allowing us to extend their love and care of children and families . . .
Until next year . . .
Rev. Sherri Barnes
University & Church Relations
Pfeiffer University
