WORKSHOPS
Let the Children Come to Me: Women of Faith Understanding and Interrupting the School-to-Prison Pipeline
Children and youth are deeply beloved of God. In fact, Jesus teaches us that the very Kin(g)dom of God, itself, belongs to the little children. Yet we live in a world that continues to do great harm to children, especially children of color. Unjust policies and practices continue to funnel far too many children and youth away from educational success and towards the criminal justice system. In this interactive workshop, we'll build our understanding of the school-to-prison pipeline as a core justice issue of our time, while exploring strategies to serve as interrupters in our various communities.
BECAUSE WE BELIEVE: THE CHARTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE
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 others 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.
WOMEN, LEADERSHIP AND CHANGE
United Women in Faith is 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 their local United Methodist Women organizations. Participants will hear inspirational stories of women leaders who are making a difference in their communities. They will identify points of commonality across the cultural and regional boundaries, as ordinary women and as changemakers. They will experience aspects of United Women in Faith Initiative, Training for Transformation, that develops leaders and empowers local women. They will recognize the importance of United Women in Faith member support in making this work happen and transforming lives.
THE SOUL CARE SLOW DOWN
Does your spirit need to be nourished? Amid our hectic overscheduled lives, caring for soul is vitally important. Now, more than ever, we need to pause - and be intentional in our quest for quiet time in the presence of God. Come engage with God in fresh and inspiring ways. Let's take time to Slow Down for Soul Care! Please bring a journal and pen/pencil. Participants should dress in comfortable clothing for both in-chair/seated and on-floor activities.
WORKSHOPS
CLIMATE JUSTICE: FAITH AND FASHION
God's Creation is in crisis... from unprecedented heatwaves and wildfires to deadly flash floods. Climate change is not a future threat, but a current reality; and it can feel overwhelming. The fashion industry is energy-intensive and has devastating impacts on soil, water, air and vulnerable workers. As United Women in Faith and global citizens, we will explore personal and systemic choices to create climate justice for all. Come prepared with a list of where the clothing you are wearing to the workshop was manufactured.
ON A MISSION(S) FROM GOD
In this workshop we will explore mission/missions, what we as women of faith believe about mission, in what ways a missionary is sent, supported, and brought home. What it looks like to be missionaries in the pews "at home" and even from our kitchen tables, and what we can do better to focus our efforts in transformational ministries both in the US and abroad with a mind to how we help and not hurt communities we seek to share God's love with.
NEW ENGLAND NATIVES: WE ARE ALL RELATED AND WE ARE NOT ALL THE SAME
Come ready to engage in hearing the background and overview of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas and the colonialist history of our interactions together. We will also discuss modern times and movements, present issues and The Act of Repentance, what does it mean and how do we fulfill our promises. Artifacts will also be presented during this session.
THE BODY SPEAKS HEALING: GENTLE YOGA PRACTICE
The Lord heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 Our understanding of God's love is that God desires our wholeness in body, mind, and spirit. Our bodies are uniquely created to help us in this healing process with movement, meditation, and the breath, all of which create awareness. This yoga practice incorporates gentle movement accessible to everyone and times of silent awareness of what God is speaking into our spirits for our well-being. The session will end with a guided meditation and contemplative prayer.
PUT THE FUN IN FUNDRAISING
This workshop provides an open forum to discuss fun and innovative fundraising ideas. We will share best practices and examples to raise funds for United Women in Faith in your local units, districts and conferences. Join us to be energized and empowered effective agents of change!
