WELCA or Women of the
ELCA is not a sorority or private club. It IS an
organization, but it’s an organization in which all women of the
congregation are automatic members. Some women choose
to participate in activities of the organization; others do not or cannot. But all belong, and all are welcome to join in whenever and however
they can.
Women of the ELCA at
Reformation is part of the larger church, working as just one
congregational unit among many across the nation committed to “growing
in faith, affirming our gifts, supporting one another in our callings,
engaging in ministry and action, and promoting healing and wholeness in
the church, society, and the world.”
We find our greatest
support and affirmation within the context of “Circles,” small groups
that meet monthly for fellowship and discussion. A
Bible study is at the heart of each Circle meeting. We
share our faith, our life experiences, our hopes, our fears, our sorrows,
and our joys. Currently, there are three circles, all
of which have warm hearts and open arms. Come visit. You will be welcomed.
- Dorcas Circle meets on the third Wednesday of
each month at 1:00 p.m. at the homes of members.
- Rebecca Circle meets on the second
Thursday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in the church library.
- Sarah Circle meets on the third Tuesday of
each month at 1:00 p.m. at the homes of members.
The theme for this year’s Circle Bible study is “Hope in God in
Times of Suffering.” The focus is not so much on suffering itself as it
is on how faith can help us deal with our own suffering and how faith can
guide us as we reach out to others who are suffering. This study continues
through May.
Reformation WELCA is more than Circles. Throughout the year, WELCA
sponsors many initiatives designed to provide assistance to those in need.
These initiatives include collection efforts for the Women’s Crisis
Center and Dress for Success, both drives emphasizing the needs of women
and children. We have also focused on the needs of seniors through visits
to area nursing homes. A group within a group, the Blanket Makers, creates
quilts, blankets, and prayer shawls for any who might need them.
Reformation WELCA has
also provided financial support for seminarian Quinn Gorges, a student at
Pacific Lutheran.
For more information about Reformation WELCA, contact Dallas Cronk
