United Methodist Women
United Methodist Women are organized for growth in the Christian walk and for mission.
The emblem of United Methodist Women, the cross and the flame inside a tear drop shape, symbolizes the organization. The cross and the flame remind women of the opportunities and obligations of discipleship. The fluid and free flowing shape suggests change and mobility. The women who came before pioneered in service for the church at home and in other countries.
Paul instructed Timothy: "...I now remind you to stir into flame the gift of God which is within you..." (II Timothy 1:6). United Methodist Women are a group of Christian women with many gifts who are unified by one Spirit and participate in God's mission in all areas of life.
United Methodist Women (UMW) is an autonomous women's group within the United Methodist Church for those women who wish to organize for mission by participating in this official organization through giving, prayer, study, action or service. It exists at various levels from the national down to local units in individual church congregations.
Troy Conference United Methodist Women operates within the Troy Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. The conference incorporates four districts covering northeastern New York State and the whole of Vermont.
The charge for United Methodist Women at all levels is:
- The organized unit of United Methodist Women shall be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ;
- to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and
- to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.
United Methodist Women /Women's Division, General Board of Global Ministries
