An August UMW gathering

Julia Starrett speaking to the UMW

The UMW's Friday Circle met on the hottest afternoon of the year with 29 on hand to share, laugh, and learn as a community.

Hostesses today were Linda Kauffman, Mary Nelson, and Bonita Ziegler.

The devotion was shared by Ginny Mellgren who read a poem, written by Julie Wallace, about the mission work of Catherine Marrs.

Today's program was presented by Julia Starrett who spoke about the advocacy work being done by Moms Demand Action.

Reports:

Spiritual Growth - Bev Schneider shared from Proverbs 3:3-6 and led the group in a responsive reading affirming our support of the UMC's Social Creed.
Mission Education/Advocacy - Hazel Smith reported on the work being done by UMC missionaries with widows in Sri Lanka.
Prayer Shawls - Carole Koval reported that two shawls were given last month taking us to 250 given out since this effort began.
Reading Program - Marcia Prather reported that the publication of New World Outlook was being discontinued. The UMW Reading Program group will meet at a September date (to be announced).
UMW Saturday Circle - The group invites the congregation to support the back-to-school supplies drive with contributions. The Friday Circle voted to give $100 to this effort. The Pantry Partners support this month is asking for $1 to be added to everyone's next shopping trip. Next meeting will be August 18.

Other reports: 

Apple Dumpling - The final edition of this fund raiser was a success with all 560 being sold.
Fall bazaar - Reminder that the date for the bazaar is November 3.
Mission u - Marcia Prather, Belinda Alkula, and Sheila Hammitt attended Mission u in Great Falls and had a great experience. Topics were Covenantal Living and Money & Faith. Next session of Mission u is August 17-18 in Billings.
Fall District Meeting - the Western Mountains District will hold its fall meeting September 15 in Dillon. Storytelling will be the theme.
Copies - please be aware of the usage of the copier, we made 2,290 copies (January-May). 

Our next meeting will be September 14.