Expanding women's ministry
Filed Under: adult discipleship, CAD, Womens Ministry Committee
After gathering ideas and input from people across the synod, the Women's Ministry Committee, part of WELS Commission on Adult Discipleship, met Oct. 22 to begin coordinating projects that encourage and equip women to use their God-given talents for service. Nineteen new women joined the existing five committee members to help carry out these initiatives.
"We've expanded so we can have more people to help us learn, grow, and to get the message out there that there are so many things that God has gifted women to do inside and outside of our churches," says Nicole Balza, member of the executive committee. "It's just a blessing to see so many talented women that the Lord has blessed come together to do his work."
The committee first formed in 2003. Its most notable project to date is the "Heirs Together" Bible study to educate and encourage both men and women about serving together. Published in 2007, the study was a joint effort between Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Professor Richard Gurgel and Kathie Wendland, both members of the Women's Ministry Committee. Future projects include planning a second national women's leadership conference, developing a women's magazine, and creating a Web site that acts as an online community for women.
Linda Buxa, new committee member from Sacramento, Calif., says she appreciates women of all ages and from all parts of the country getting involved in this expanding ministry. "These women are amazing," she says. "They really love Jesus and are so devoted to serving him and reaching out to others. They see how God has called men and women to serve him together. With more people on the committee we can encourage each other and keep the ministry moving forward."
The committee is looking for more interested women to help. For service opportunities, or to learn more about the Women's Ministry Committee, visit www.wels.net/jump/women
