The Flame. The Purpose. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE FLAME 2015 June 1, 2015 September 1, 2015 December 1, 2015

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1 The Flame I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E The Purpose Deadlines: Mark Your Calendar A Note from the President Greetings from the District Secretary From the Desk of the Treasurer Mission Coordinator for Spiritual Growth The Legacy and History Unit Spotlight Vanderveer Park UMW Legacy Brunch Limitless, Too Update Upcoming Events DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE FLAME 2015 June 1, 2015 September 1, 2015 December 1, 2015 Deadlines enable productivity. Deadlines promote focus. Deadlines prevent procrastination. My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work (James 1:2-4). The Purpose 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. Page 1

2 A Note from the President Patricia Netwon Greetings, in the name of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I prayer that as you read this edition of the flame that you are all thawed od from the winter we ve had. As we know that God s work at its best. I pray that the year 2015 will be a successful one. Our local officer s training was held on Saturday February 21, 2015, at St. Marks United Methodist church in Brooklyn. Despite the very cold and snowy weather we had a very good attendance. Adriann Fraser-Johnson and the Limitless, Too circle opened with song and praise. The group was on a spiritual high as Sister Adriann brought the word for the day and many attendees came to the alter for prayer. Special thanks to Sister Adriann for always reminding us of our purpose and why we are in mission. To the Rev. Glyger Beach, Pastor, the trustees and the Sister Janet DeSilva, we say thank you for allowing us to use you building for our training. Thanks also to Sister Janet and her team for providing the breakfast for us. Sharon Noisette Jenkins reminded us as to why we must be trained continually. She also spoke about out legacy and how training helps us to fulfill the legacy our foremothers began. Thank you Sharon Noisette Jenkins from the team. On January 31, 2015, I attended the Limitless, Too meeting which was held at First United Methodist Church of Jamaica in Queens. The meeting was led by Shanae Als who has been voted as President of our district s United Methodist Women s young women circle. Some of the events this circle is planning for 2015 are: a Royal Tea luncheon (tickets will be available for sale), a Stop Hunger Now mission project, and feeding for the Homeless at The Far rockaway Mission. My wish for this group of dynamic young people is that we plant the seeds that will allow them to follow our legacy for many years. Congratulations to Trinity United Methodist Women and Bethel United Methodist Women for being revitalized during We, the Long Island West District United Methodist Women are praying for your success and growth. Patricia Netwon District President Page 2

3 Greetings from the District Secretary Marie A. Davis Blessings of the Resurrection season to all, As we continue to reach out and encourage one another in our mission work with women, children and youth, I am pleased to report that our annual district training of local unit officers was a great success. We had a total of 123 attendees registered representing 18 churches in our district. The evaluations for all classes were very good. Thank you for completing your evaluations in a timely manner. The feedback regarding the sale of baked goodies by Limitless, Too was an equal success. Most people liked the idea and appreciated the fact that they have input as to what additional items can be offered for sale at our district meetings. We look forward to seeing what Limitless, Too has to offer in the future. As district secretary, I would like to remind all local unit secretaries to send me your 2015 list of elected officers as soon as possible. I am working on a district directory that I hope to have completed by our district s upcoming Time Apart. Please send your information electronically to: Roses4him7777@aol.com. If you have already sent your information to me, thank you. please feel free to send it again because due to a computer crash on my end, I may not have received all information that was sent to me. On behalf of the district officers, I thank the pastor, trustees and the United Methodist Women s local unit of St. Mark s United Methodist Church for being the perfect hosts. May God continue to bless all of you as we work together to make our district one of the strongest in our conference. On the Journey, Marie A. Davis District Secretary Page 3

4 From the Desk of the Treasurer Angella Depass Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed. (Prov. 28:27 NLT) The Difference between Dues and Pledges United Methodist Women do not pay dues. Dues are a designated financial amount predetermined by an individual, a group or an organization to be paid by a specific time. United Methodist Women make pledges. A pledge is a financial commitment made prayerfully from the heart. Each United Methodist Woman make a pledge annually, there is no minimum or maximum amount. This can be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. A United Methodist Woman would normally complete a pledge card and submit it to the local unit treasurer. Once a completed pledge card is given to the local unit, it is believed that the pledger will pay the committed amount for that calendar year. The Journey of A United Methodist Woman Pledge A United Methodist Woman pledges to her local unit; the local unit pledges to the district (in this case Long Island West). The district then pledges to the New York Conference. The conference in turn pledges to the United Methodist Women National Office, from there the funds are distributed in this country as well as internationally to assist ministries with women, youth and children. Angella Depass District Treasurer Page 4

5 Mission Coordinator for Spiritual Growth Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2015 and lasts for 40 days excluding Sundays, is a time for reflection and relationship. When we look to the practice of placing ashes on our foreheads, it is evidence to the world that we repent, turn away, begin again, and come to new knowledge for our sins, looking for a new beginning. Some use this time to give up something like food through fasting. In fact when done correctly, fasting is not just a tradition or religious practice, it is a vital spiritual discipline that brings us closer to God. Like Daniel demonstrates, fasting is not merely seen as the absence of food it is the hungering and thirsting after for the presence of God. Some may use this time to engage in prayer to bring themselves closer to God. I am reminded recently of a pastor s words during his sermon where he stated When you pray, stop asking God to make a way when you know that God is the Way. Instead of asking God for healing, simply ask for the Healer.* This Lenten season, with so many of the world s dilemmas and distractions, our prayers can be so simple Lord I need more of you. During this time of urgency let us listen for the still, small voice of God, focus on our relationship with Him and pray, Lord I need you. Adriann F. Johnson Mission Coordinator for Spiritual Growth, LIW District UMW *Taken from the sermon Stay Focused by Rev. Cedric Johnson, Newman Memorial UMC, Sunday, February 15, 2015 Page 5

6 The Legacy and History That Handful of Women The Woman s Foreign Missionary Society (WFMS) was the earliest of the several missionary societies that now comprise United Methodist Women. But WFMS did not spring full-blown in a vacuum. It was a rainy, stormy day on March 23, 1869, when a handful of women came together at the Tremont Street Church in Boston to form the Woman s Foreign Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Notices of the meeting had been sent to 28 Methodist churches of Boston and vicinity but only eight women actually came. The church was locked when the earliest arrived but, once inside the church, the women prayed and listened to stories told by missionary wives recently returned from India of the shut-in women of the Zenanas, and the call of the Master to Christian women. They also heard of the recent organization of the Congregational women; so they covenanted together and with God and a resolution to organize was taken. In quick succession they appointed a committee on nomination to select officers, accepted the list presented, sang the Doxology, and set the following Tuesday as the next meeting date. Notices for a meeting on March 30 were sent out; and although on that day there was another torrential rain, 26 women were present. In the intervening week much work had been done on a draft constitution which was presented and adopted by and for the Woman s Foreign Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Osman C. Baker was named the first president. The appointment of the first missionary was the women s preeminent order of business in their first annual meeting in May, The women voted to send two missionaries to India as soon as possible Isabella Thoburn, and a medical lady. By September Dr. Clara Swain had received her degree from Woman s Medical College in Philadelphia and agreed to serve with the WFMS. On November 2, 1869, Bedford Street Church, New York, was crowded to the doors with a sympathetic audience to see this strange sight, two single ladies about to sail the ocean to a new and untried task, with no pledge of support save that handful of women! Upon arrival in India, Isabella Thoburn opened a school for girls in Lucknow and medical work was started by Clara Swain. From its beginnings in 1869, the Society at home expanded across the U.S. and developed program and structures at local, district, conference and branch levels. In 1939, the Society simultaneously planned for its 70th Anniversary celebrations and its movement into new organizational forms in The Methodist Church. Leaders summarized the life and work of the WFMS in this manner: In its last full year the total membership of the Women s Foreign Missionary Society was 347,245. One thousand, five hundred and fifty-nine (1,559) missionaries had been sent out during the seven decades, to work on four Page 6

7 continents, and in 17 nations. The Society owned property valued, in grounds, buildings and furnishings, at $8,719, It had given through the years a total of over $60 million. At the time of unification, 292 missionaries were on the field. There were 1,114 schools with 3,403 trained national teachers, and 68,191 students, as well as 20 hospitals and dispensaries and other types of work. An International Department had been launched in 1929 which by 1935 had 26 national units around the world. On October 26, 1939, at the 70th anniversary, this international organization became officially, by the formal signing of a constitution, the World Federation of Methodist Women, with 28 national units. Women, motivated by the gospel, gave their time, skill and resources to the work of this Society. In so doing, they set in motion an organization whose world-wide accomplishments cannot be measured. The impact of those efforts is still felt today. Page 7

8 Unit Spotlight Fulfillment of a Promise Fenimore Street United Methodist Women Celebrating 56 Years!!! The lovely ladies of the Fenimore Street UMW celebrated 56 years as a unit. With this years theme, Fulfillment of a Promise, this unit has, is, and will continue to live up to our organizations vision of turning faith, hope and love into action on behalf of women, children and youth around the world. Comprised of a cohort of over 40 brave, compassionate, edgy, graceful, loving, supportive and strong women, Fenimore UMW are well on their way to continuing their status as a Mission Today and Five Star unit. Under the leadership of President, Doreen Thomas, this unit has already added new members and has been working behind the scenes to give exceptional opportunities to the children and youth of our community. So far, they have co-sponsored two young men on this years Conference mission trip to Antigua (Randy Pringle, 15, who attends Christ the King Regional High School and Cabion Ward, 17, who attends the School for Human Rights) and collaborated with member/educator Dr. Marguerite Thompson to hold an afternoon of music and poetry on February 15, This year the unit started its Women s Weekend with, A Breakfast with Flair on Saturday, March 7 th, 2015 at 9:00AM. The celebration continued until Sunday, March 8 th, 2015 at 11:00AM with a Women s Day Celebration featuring, Adrian Fraser-Johnson, our LIW District Spiritual Growth Coordinator from Newman Memorial UMC. Both events will be held at the Fenimore Street United Methodist Church, 276 Fenimore Street at the corner of Rogers Avenue in Brooklyn, NY where Rev. Dr. Maxine Nixon is the Pastor. In conclusion, the ladies of the Fenimore Street UMW are committed to living and continuing the legacy that was started in 1869 with just 6 members and has now grown to 800,00 members. Over the past 56 years, they have created a legacy that is 56 years strong and has set the legacy of another 56 years in motion by igniting the candle in our children and youth who will continue the march in the light of God! Fenimore UMW has three (3) members serving on the LIW District Team. Executive Advisory Board Member Mildred Hurlock Fenimore UMW has three (3) members serving on the LIW District Team. Doreen Thomas - President Heidi Clarkson - Vice President Shanae Als - Secretary Aselena Smith - Treasurer Rev. Dr. Maxine Nixon - Pastor Page 8

9 Legacy Brunch Honoring Our Own On Saturday, March 14, 2015 the United Methodist Women of Vanderveer Park United Methodist Church honored their own at their Legacy Brunch. The women who have been members of the local unit for fifteen plus years were the honorees. All past presidents as well as the current presidents were also honored. Over 175 guests enjoyed fellowship, food, fun, games, music, entertainment and a rendition of Pearl Clege's poem "We Speak Your Names" by Phyllis Cannon-Pitts. Sharon Noisette Jenkins, UMW Northeast Jurisdiction Vice-President was the keynote speaker for the event. Ms. Jenkins spoke to the women about the Legacy and Fund and the importance of leaving legacies. She led us in song, prayer and the potting of a plant to watch it grow as we continue to grow. In keeping with the United Methodist Women National Office mission to support the Legacy Fund as we approach the 150th Anniversary of UMW. A donation was made to the Legacy Fund in honor and memory of Mavis Davis, a faithful member of UMW who was instrumental in inviting and nurturing many women in United Methodist Women. Page 9

10 Limitless, Too We Serve Until All Are Fed..for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me Matthew 25:35 Limitless, Too of the Long Island West District of United Methodist Women strives to equip young women of faith, to transcend barriers and to do justice in our communities by putting faith, hope and love into action. Limitless, Too 2015 Officers President - Shanae Als Fenimore Street UMC Vice President Open Secretary - Karla E. Johnson Newman Memorial UMC Marketing/Communications - Janyce Hunt - Union UMC Treasurer Khadijah McRae First UMC Jamaica In the year 2015, Limitless, Too will be focusing on hunger with the theme of We Serve Until All Are Fed. So this year, expect the majority of our activities to focus around alleviating hunger in our community. Upcoming Events Royal Tea Luncheon May 30 th, Location: TBA (Queens) Team Meeting Saturday, August 29 th, 2015 STOP HUNGER NOW Saturday, October 10 th, Location: TBA (Brooklyn) 2016 Planning Meeting - Saturday, October 31 st, 2015 Far Rockaway Feeding - Saturday, December 12th, 2015 Limitless, Too is asking for your help in obtaining member representation from all units in the Long Island West District. We are also asking for your help as we need to raise $3,050 (meal packing, $2,900 + gas/tolls $150) to perform STOP HUNGER NOW in October This event would provide 10,000 nutrient-rich meals for the undernourished globally. If any individual or unit would like to make a donation towards our cause, please send your donation payable to LIW UMW with the MEMO: STOP HUNGER NOW to District Treasurer, Angella Depass, rd Street, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413; Jesus fed 5,000 and with your help we can feed 10,000 If you have any questions about Limitless, Too or would like to become a member please contact Limitless, Too President, Shanae Als at shanaea08@yahoo.com or Page 10

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16 United Methodist Women ~ Local Unit United Methodist Church of Richmond Hill th Avenue South Richmond Hill, NY February 16, 2015 Dear Sisters in Christ: Greetings in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, our soon coming King. We extend invitation to our United Methodist Women s Day celebration on Sunday, April 12, 2015, at 9:45 am. Our theme for this year is Living the Purpose. Our speaker for the day will be Sister Joan McClam, Membership, Nurture and Outreach Coordinator for the New York Conference United Methodist Women and a member of Springfield Gardens United Methodist Church in Queens. In addition, we will be installing our 2015 officers. Your presence will be a blessing to us, and we know that you will be blessed in return. Our colors for this celebration are white with a gold scarf. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. We look forward to the fellowship. Yours in Christ, Sharon Goffe Sharon Goffe U M W Local Unit President (c) richmondhillumw@gmail.com Page 16

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25 UNITED METHODIST WOMEN of FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF JAMAICA Highland Avenue, Jamaica, N.Y Pastor: Dr. Rev. Edwin Jones Iris Berry UMW President Present our 1st Fellowship Lunch Cruise of New York City SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2015 Departing from: 1World s Fair Marina, Flushing Queens, N.Y (718) Board 12:30 pm Sail 1:00 pm Return 5:00 pm Cost: $95.00 per person (Deadline: May 29, 2015) Menu: Caesar Salad, choice of Grilled Salmon & Chicken Francese, potatoes, steamed vegetable and rolls with butter. Dessert Private 1 st deck on the Skyline Princess DJ entertainment on 3 rd deck, which is a shared deck for all passengers aboard the Skyline Princess Cash Bar: Alcoholic bar is open at boarding Please make checks payable to: United Methodist Women For further information please contact: Iris Berry (718) Grace Paquiz (718) Page 25